Emma Mykytyn Traditional weaving techniques at Inverness Castle
Award-winning Highland weavers Prickly Thistle will lead the first special events at the Castle this August, offering participants the chance to learn traditional weaving techniques and take home a unique keepsake.
The Inverness Castle Experience have launched two exclusive workshops, celebrating one of Scotland’s most iconic traditions.
Delivered in partnership with award-winning Highland weaving mill Prickly Thistle, the workshops, ‘Tartan and Tea’ and ‘Tartan at Twilight’, will take place on 28 August and offer participants a rare opportunity to experience tartan weaving first-hand in the spectacular surroundings of the Castle’s North Tower.
The partnership is a natural extension of the bespoke Inverness Castle Experience Tartan, which features throughout the attraction, from exhibition spaces to exclusive products in the Castle shop. Now, visitors and residents alike can explore the story behind the design and learn the skills involved in bringing tartan to life for the first time outside of the Prickly Thistle mill.
The daytime Tartan and Tea workshop offers a relaxed creative experience, concluding with tea and cake overlooking Inverness from the North Tower Bar.
For those seeking an evening experience, Tartan at Twilight combines weaving with a hand-crafted cocktail and canapés, providing a memorable opportunity to enjoy the Castle after hours.
Led by Clare Campbell, founder of Prickly Thistle, participants will discover the history, symbolism and craftsmanship behind tartan before creating their own woven keepsake to take home.
Amy MacLeod, Head of The Inverness Castle Experience, said,
“The Inverness Castle Experience Tartan plays an important role in helping us tell the story of the Highlands through design, craftsmanship and creativity. We’re delighted to launch these new events with Prickly Thistle, offering people the opportunity to learn about the heritage of tartan and create their own piece of the bespoke tartan that has become part of the visitor experience.”
Clare Campbell, founder of Prickly Thistle, added:
“Tartan is much more than a pattern. It tells stories about place, identity and community. We’re excited to bring the art of weaving to The Inverness Castle Experience and give participants a hands-on opportunity to explore Scotland’s textile heritage while creating something unique of their own.”
Hosted in the North Tower Bar, both workshops are designed for beginners and include all materials and equipment.
Booking is essential, and places are limited.
For more information and to book, visit https://invernesscastle.scot/whats-on
