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Textile Towns

Congleton

Congleton grew from a thriving market town into a major centre of textile production in the 18th century. Visit the museum and find out what life was like for Congleton's mill workers. Discover how the production of textiles and clothing changed according to the whims of fashion. The skills of fustian cutting, cotton spinning, silk ribbon making and velvet production were all practised here. You can find out about this attractive town's architectural heritage and learn how it survived the dramatic turmoils of the textile industry through specially arranged talks and demonstrations. Enjoy Congleton's hospitality in the many traditional pubs and cafes that are still thriving.

Macclesfield

Macclesfield is known the world over for its high quality silk production. Award winning museums tell the brilliant story of silk from bugs to beauty. Experience attractive costume and textile displays, demonstrations of working machinery and thousands of gorgeous textile samples. They clearly show how the town produced its famous woven, printed and embroidered silks. Enjoy high quality, great value food in the Mulberry Tree Cafe and silk shopping. There is a fascinating architectural heritage, good shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes, which make this a rewarding town to visit. The historic town of Macclesfield is bordered by stunning scenery and offers the visitor a unique range of textile related visits.

Bollington

Bollington was known as the happy valley for a good reason. This attractive stone-built town is just a short drive from Macclesfield. It was once a busy cotton town and its textile heritage of handsome buildings and hill-side location gives it a unique character. Visit Bollington's own canal side visitor centre in a former cotton spinning mill. Here you will find information on themed walks to guide you along the streets, lanes and footpaths. The large photographic archive reveals how the local people lived, worked and played in this characterful community.

Leek

Leek is a delightful market town brimming with a fascinating textile history. The town has strong links with the arts and crafts movement, which is reflected, in its distinctive architecture. Explore it at your own pace by following a town trail or take a special walk with knowledgeable guides. Discover why our greatest textile designer William Morris came to the town so often. Morris lived and worked in Leek as he perfected his outstanding cloth dyeing and printing skills with Thomas Wardle. Uncover the hidden textile treasures. Many of Leek's fine churches still use magnificent examples of Leek embroidery. Elizabeth Wardle, with many local women, produced outstanding embroideries for churches and domestic interiors. The arts and crafts movement influenced many of the designs. Award winning teashops.