Sunny Bank Mills - Everyday Histories Everyday Stories

Founded in 1829, Sunny Bank Mills has a proud history as a leading woollen and worsted mill. Still owned by the Gaunt family, who helped establish the site in the late Georgian period, it remains a fascinating place to visit. At Red Lane Mill, the Museum & Archive will be open, featuring a remarkable collection that includes cloth samples woven here since the 1880's. Across the site, you can explore objects and stories from the time when more than 900 people worked at the Mills, producing some of the finest cloth in the world. There will also be creative activities for all ages, inspired by the everyday experiences of mill workers, from tea breaks and locker-room conversations to celebrations and special occasions.
Visit the Mills’ on-site Gallery to see a vibrant and immersive exhibition created in collaboration with Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre and Pyramid of Arts, showcasing the work of artists with disabilities and neurodivergence. The weekend also coincides with Leeds Open Studios, giving you the opportunity to visit the creative spaces of over 40 artists and makers across 3 of our heritage buildings, take part in a family-friendly print trail, and see a range of pop-up stalls in the Main Yard. Enjoy refreshments in the Gallery Tea Room, browse the independent Gallery Shop and create potions and spells in our free drop-in activity space.

Timings

Friday 11 September:

1000-1600

Saturday 12 September:

1000-1600

Sunday 13 September:

1000-1600

Location & directions

Sunny Bank Mills, 83-85 Town Street, Farsley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 5UJ

Directions:

There is lots of free parking all over the Sunny Bank Mills site. We would encourage visitors to park in the Weavers' Yard carpark in the middle of the site. Spaces are either unmarked or marked Visitors. There are 4 electric car charging points too. From Leeds City Centre: 16 bus from City Square D. Stops in Farsley centre. Train to New Pudsey Station and 15-minute walk. From Bradford: 72 Bus from Bradford Interchange or train to New Pudsey Station with 15-minute walk.

Contact on day:

William Gaunt

Telephone number:

+447866426765

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Dogs welcome in most areas but Assistance Dogs only in the Museum & Archive. Audio descriptions and transcripts of a selection of the collection are available in the Museum & Archive and online https://www.sunnybankmills.co.uk/online-archive-category/audio-description/

Additional information

Visit www.sunnybankmills.co.uk for full information nearer the time of the Festival.

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