There’s plenty to see and do inside the cottage. The atmospheric, low-beamed rooms are filled with period furniture and household objects, displayed to give a real feel for the everyday life of the families who lived and worked here. You can also watch a fascinating documentary on how Kilbarchan helped to develop and produce Paisley shawls.
The main attraction at Weaver’s Cottage is undoubtedly the loomshop, where you can see authentic Kilbarchan looms and spinning wheels. The friendly, knowledgeable staff and volunteers are happy to explain the process, show you how the looms and spinning wheels work, and fill you in on the history of Scotland’s textile industry. For the full experience, try your hand at the traditional skills of weaving, pirn winding and spinning – the guides will make sure you don’t get in a fankle!
Finish off with a visit to the cottage garden, where you can see some of the plants and herbs that were used to make dyes for the fabrics. There is also a traditional bee shelter with bee skeps and honey from the local community is sold in the cottage shop, along with other NTS items.
Did you know?
Two recent archaeological digs in the garden unearthed ancient pottery, a Neolithic axe and a human skull, among many other interesting pieces.
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