An insight into the life and work of the mid-19th century weavers

Housed in an old handloom weaving factory which dates back to the 1830s, the Newtown Textile Museum gives visitors an insight into the life and work of the town’s weavers during the mid-19th century. The museum was established in 1960 with the help of JKD Lloyd. The history of Newtown’s weaving tradition is brought to life through exhibits and demonstrations.

On the top two floors the story of the process of converting fleece to flannel (a soft woollen cloth) is illustrated by handlooms, spinning wheels, and the stories of local influential people. On the lower floors are three pairs of two-storey houses, the former cottages which housed the weavers. Inside, visitors can discover the fascinating life of Pryce Jones, the man credited with establishing the world’s first mail order company, through a comprehensive range of associated artefacts.There are also temporary exhibitions dedicated to the social, artistic and material culture of Mid Wales.