Avoca Handweavers

The birthplace of the Avoca experience, and the origin of the company name, Avoca Handweavers, this is a famous tourist destination, as well as a long time favourite among the Dublin and Wicklow communities. Built on the banks of the Avoca River from where it used to draw it's power, you'll find a large Avoca store and cafe, and a working handweaving mill. The mill itself dates from 1723, and is said to be the oldest extant manufacturer in Ireland. Many of the throws, rugs and scarves you'll find in the Avoca stores are woven at this mill. Initially the mill took the raw wool from the sheep of the surrounding hills and valleys and through a process of carding, spinning, dyeing and weaving transformed it into clothing and blankets for barter and sale. Visitors are welcome to see the whole weaving process at first hand with a tour. Admission is free and it is a great opportunity to see a working mill and to view the finished product in the store afterwards. The picturesque village of Avoca itself is the fictional home of the BBC's "Ballykissangel". Open 7 days a week:Summer opening: Shop 9.00am - 6.00pm; Cafe 9.30am - 5.30pm.Winter opening: Shop 9.30am - 5.30pm; Cafe 9.30am - 5.00pm.