Cumbria Woolshed

It all started when…

The Cumbria Woolshed is the brainchild of John, Sally and Charles Barraclough who founded the award-winning Wools of Cumbria Carpets ,which makes and sells 100% wool carpets made from the rare and distinctive sheep found on the Cumbrian fells.

In 2017, they had the opportunity to purchase a well-established retail property that sold high quality carpet roll-ends, cut lengths of carpet and rugs. This retail space had plenty of floorspace, ample parking and was conveniently located at the north side of Kendal. This business was branded ‘Bankfield Mill’ and it also became the official showroom for Wools of Cumbria Carpets.

A Cumbrian community that’s passionate about wool

Over the years, John, Sally and Charles have met and become friends with many like-minded artisan businesses with an overwhelming desire to promote Cumbrian wool products to a wider audience. The notion of doing something together was often talked about but the practicalities were never formalised and it remained a discussion point at the many shows and events attended by the Cumbrian wool community.

Joining the dots

Bankfield Mill has a large floorspace and plenty of storage, and so the idea of using part of that space as a centre of excellence for Cumbrian wool products was hatched. John, Sally and Charles reached out to the Cumbrian wool community to discuss the idea of using Bankfield Mill as the location to showcase the best of Cumbrian wool. The concept was met with enthusiasm and at the beginning of 2019, a plan was finalised and work commenced.

Our partners

Seven brands committed to the Cumbria Woolshed at the start, and it’s anticipated that others will be added as the concept gains momentum.

The current collaboration includes:

Wools of Cumbria Carpets

Bankfield Mill

Herdwick Limited

The Woolly Rug Company

Cable & Blake

Amy Bateman Photography

Laura’s Loom

The Bespoke Home Furniture Company

Leaf - Botanical Ecoprints by Deborah Dawn

Dodgson Wood

Becca Hall Illustration

Geraldine Walkington

Helvellyn Herdwicks