Sarah MacCuaig, Author at Coldharbour Mill

Coldharbour Mill to Host 2025 Heritage Craft Festival

Celebrating traditional skills, community creativity, and living heritage in the heart of Devon

Coldharbour Mill is proud to announce the return of its much-anticipated Heritage Craft Festival, running from Tuesday 19 August to Saturday 30 August 2025, with a rest day on Sunday 24 August. Open daily from 11 am to 4 pm, the festival invites visitors to experience the rich tapestry of traditional crafts, skills, and heritage in a truly immersive setting.

Set within one of the UK’s oldest working woollen mills, the festival will bring together skilled artisans from across the region to demonstrate and celebrate crafts that have shaped our cultural identity. Visitors can expect to see traditional craftspeople at work—including weavers, potters, spinners, textile makers, and more—offering a rare opportunity to witness these age-old techniques in action. Many of the craftspeople will be on hand to answer questions, discuss their work, and offer insights into the heritage behind their trades.

Beyond observation, the Heritage Craft Festival is a hands-on experience. Throughout the event, a programme of interactive workshops and demonstrations will give attendees the chance to try their hand at a range of traditional skills. With something for all ages, families can enjoy a host of engaging activities designed to spark creativity and curiosity. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a unique summer outing, the festival promises a rewarding and inspiring day out.

In addition to the festival’s artisan-led activities, all visitors will have access to Coldharbour Mill’s historic site. The working mill, which dates back to 1797, offers a unique glimpse into the industrial past of Devon, with original steam and water-powered machinery still in operation. It’s a chance to step back in time and explore the enduring legacy of British textile production in a beautifully preserved setting.

Coldharbour Mill’s team is excited to build on the success of last year’s inaugural festival. “This year, we’re expanding both the number of crafts represented and the opportunities for hands-on learning,” said the festival organiser. “We want people to not only observe the heritage but to be part of it—crafting, learning, and sharing in a tradition that continues to shape our communities today.”

Entry to the Heritage Craft Festival is included in standard admission to Coldharbour Mill, priced at £13 for adults and £7 for children under 16. Tickets will be available via the Coldharbour Mill website closer to the date.

Located just minutes from the M5 at Junction 27, Coldharbour Mill is easily accessible and offers a rich, engaging day out in the Devon countryside. For more information about the festival, including workshop announcements and visiting details, please visit the Heritage Craft Festival Page

Threads of Tradition and Tomorrow Tartan Design Competition

Calling All Future Textile Designers!

Coldharbour Mill invites you to design a tartan that celebrates regional heritage while embracing innovation.

This competition, hosted by the historic Mill, celebrates our prestigious receipt of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. We invite you to create a tartan that blends tradition and modernity. The winning designer will have the opportunity to undertake an internship at the mill and collaborate with professional weavers to bring their design to life on our heritage looms.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Any student in the United Kingdom studying textiles.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in textile weaving degree programmes in the United Kingdom.

The Theme

Design a new tartan commemorating the historical weaving company’s receipt of the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service. The tartan should reflect the brand’s heritage in regional textiles and its future-forward ethos.

The Work

Submission Requirements:

· A detailed design board (including colour palette, pattern repeat, and inspiration).

· A short description (500 words) explaining the design concept, historical influences, and how it reflects the brief.

· Technical requirements must adhere to the Scottish Register of Tartans

Judging Criteria

· Creativity and originality in the tartan design.

· Connection to the theme and compelling storytelling.

· Feasibility for weaving and commercial use.

· Technical accuracy in pattern repeat and colour alignment.

Judging Panel:

· Coldharbour Mill representatives.

· Academic experts in textile design.

· An external designer or industry professional.

The Prize

The design woven into fabric by the company and officially adopted.
Feature in the company’s tartan collection.
Internship opportunity with the company.
Cash prize of £1000

Register Your Interest

Complete the form below to register your interest.

Terms and Conditions

· Originality: All designs must be original works created specifically for this competition and not previously exhibited or submitted to another organisation.

· Rights: Coldharbour Mill will retain copyright of the winner’s work and reserve the right to use images of all designers submissions for promotional purposes.

· Exhibition: Coldharbour Mill will determine the display method for selected artworks. Installation will be handled by the organisations staff; artists are not required to be present.

· Delivery and Collection: Selected designers are responsible for delivering and collecting their artworks. Detailed instructions will be provided upon acceptance.

· Liability and Insurance: Coldharbour Mill will insure artworks up to a value of £1,000 during the exhibition. Designers are responsible for insuring their work during transit.

· Withdrawal: Designers wishing to withdraw must notify the organisation in writing.

· Publicity: Coldharbour Mill will promote the exhibition designs through various channels.

· By participating, students confirm they have read and agree to these terms and condition

Author: Sarah MacCuaig

Heritage Craft Festival 2025