Nestling between the Ox and Nephin mountains, Foxford is situated on the River Moy, famous for its fishing - and this atrractive town is also synonymous with woollens, especially ‘the Foxford blanket’.
Established in 1892, this is one of only a handful of working woollen mills still operating in Ireland and - having been rescued from threatened closure in 1987 - visitors today will find a revitalised business. Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre is very much the centre of the local community and hosts art galleries, a jewellery workshop, Christmas Craft Fair and Farmers’ Market (Saturday 10am-2pm) as well as showcasing stylish ranges of clothing and homewares - including the Foxford Home Collection by top Irish designer Helen McAlinden.
Although the Centre is most famous for its history and the products woven on site, notably a beautiful and very distinctive range of rugs, throws and scarves, the first floor restaurant has also become a destination in itself for its wide range of wholesome meals, notably salads and homebakes - and also for the charm of the place itself.
Where else in Ireland can you sit and enjoy an unpretentious and very tasty meal in such pleasing industrial surroundings - and feel the hum of the looms working on the ground floor below coming up through your feet. It's a magic spot and well worth a detour.
