Celebrating 150 Years of Lace
7–10 October 2026
The Irvine Valley Lace Festival
In 1876, Alexander Morton brought the power loom to our valley, transforming Darvel, Newmilns, and Galston into a global hub of textile excellence. Now, 150 years later, we proudly celebrate the resilience, artistry, and innovation of an industry that once thrived with 40 factories and continues today through our two remaining mills.
Join us for a landmark four-day celebration of our rich heritage.
While we celebrate 150 years of the power loom this October, the Irvine Valley's transformation truly began right here in Newmilns.
In 1838, our own Joseph Hood ignited an industrial revolution by introducing the first Jacquard machine. By utilising revolutionary punched cards to automate complex patterns, Hood laid the foundation for the craftsmanship and global reputation that would define our valley for generations.
A Living Legacy
From the earliest automated patterns to the height of the industrial era, the story of the Irvine Valley is one of remarkable global influence, paired with a quiet resilience through periods of decline.
Today, that proud heritage lives on through our two remaining mills. MYB Textiles, the world’s last producer of Nottingham Lace, continues to craft intricate designs steeped in tradition, while Haddow, Aird & Crerar have expertly evolved their historic looms to create world-class modern screen cloth.
Together, they ensure that although the industry has transformed, the skill, innovation, and enduring spirit of the Irvine Valley weavers remain a vibrant and living part of our community.
A Historic Collaboration
In a historic collaboration, Newmilns is proud to partner with our neighbours in Darvel and Galston to launch the first-ever Irvine Valley Lace Festival, uniting our 'Three Towns' to celebrate a shared legacy that the world.
FESTIVAL ITINERARY
WED 07 OCT – SAT 10th OCT
The Lace Exhibitions
Darvel Town Hall, Morton Hall Newmilns, and Galston Town Hall
Explore artifacts, exquisite lace collections, and a breathtaking scrim painting commissioned by the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
SAT 09 MAY
Ladyton Loch Loop Walk and Afternoon Tea (3:00 pm)
A relaxing afternoon walk around the Ladyton Loch Loop followed by afternoon Tea at 3.00 pm in the Hogg Hall, Galston. Check the Galston Trust Facebook page for further details, or our Events Page to book tickets online.
THU 08 OCT
Behind the Scenes: MYB Textiles
A rare opportunity to see the world-renowned surviving looms in action. (Pre-booking is essential as there are limited spaces.)
FRI 09 OCT
Behind the Scenes: Haddow, Aird & Crerar
Discover the craftsmanship inside one of our two remaining lace factories. (Pre-booking is essential as there are limited spaces.)
SAT 10 OCT
The Lace Trail Walk (10.30 am)
A guided journey through the Irvine Valley landscape, winding from Darvel through to Galston.
The Warp & The Weft: An Evening of Conversation (7:30 pm)
Join celebrated broadcaster Billy Kay at Darvel Town Hall for a poignant night of stories and reflections on the human legacy of the looms.
BEYOND THE LOOMS
Throughout the festival, use the Newmilns Heritage App to discover our Lace Murals and the Alexander Fleming mural, who famously discovered penicillin in 1928 in Darvel and the incredible global links of our lace workers in the Irvine Valley - did you know they helped found football clubs in Gothenburg and Barcelona?
You can download a copy of the Newmilns Heritage App here:
TICKETS & INFORMATION
Don’t miss this once-in-a-century milestone. Make a day of it and enjoy a warm welcome at our local coffee shops and pubs! More information is available on our events page:
BEYOND THE LOOMS
Throughout the festival, use the Newmilns Heritage App to discover our Lace Murals and the Alexander Fleming mural, who famously discovered penicillin in 1928 in Darvel and the incredible global links of our lace workers in the Irvine Valley - did you know they helped found football clubs in Gothenburg and Barcelona?
You can download a copy of the Newmilns Heritage App here:
TICKETS & INFORMATION
Don’t miss this once-in-a-century milestone. Make a day of it and enjoy a warm welcome at our local coffee shops and pubs! More information is available on our events page:
ALL NEWS
