Wool-gathering in the Dales

Webmaster was strolling past the Bishop Blaize pub in Richmond yesterday, wool-gathering* as usual, when a thought struck him. Bishop Blaize was the patron saint of the wool trade, wasn't he? And that trade used to be huge in these northern dales, bringing the wealth that created Fountains Abbey, Rievaulx and countless other monasteries. "Don't we have", he wondered, "quite a few leaflets from wool-related businesses in the Information Centre?"

We do. And here they are, for those of you with an interest in fabrics:

• Flock, in Masham, specialises in textiles, felt, hand-dyed yarns and silk painting.
• Fleece, in Reeth, looks as if it may be a sister-company, with a similar offering.
• Swaledale Woollens, in Muker, at the top end of Swaledale, has long been famous for its hand-knitted and crocheted sweaters and other clothing.
• Andrea Hunter's Felt Studio, in Hardraw, near Hawes, has a stunning collection of the artist's works; you'll be amazed at the effects she achieves. (See image above.)
• Wensleydale Longwool, in Leyburn, has gorgeous knitting yarns and kits, as well as sheepskins, rugs and throws.

And when you've explored all those, and come away with bags full of trophies, why not relax with a drink in the Bishop Blaize, Richmond's oldest pub, and un-ravel your day? 


* Wool-gathering = day-dreaming

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