The Whitchurch Silk Mill is a working museum which preserves traditional heritage silk weaving skills, weaving on looms that date back to the 1890s. By weaving exclusive fabrics for today's luxury market, the Mill is securing the future of the methods, skills, traditions and knowledge that have existed there since 1815. Our visit will begin with tea/coffee and biscuits on arrival at 10:30am We will then have a guided tour to include the waterwheel and Mill building with its Victorian machinery. The tour will last approximately 1 hour. There is a lift in the building and there will be places to sit down if required. Next we will have our lunch which will include a variety of sandwiches, crisps and cake and tea/coffee. Please answer the questionnaire re dietary requirements/allergies. After lunch you will have the opportunity to visit the Riches to Ribbons exhibition which showcases the stunning collection of silk ribbons woven in a creative collaboration with Jane Austen's House at Chawton. This is part of many county wide events commemorating 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen. As well as looking at the place silk ribbons once played in fashion history, there is a ribbon 'wall of fame' featuring well known tv films and dramas which have used Whitchurch silk ribbons. The Mill also has a shop and gardens for you to enjoy. For those who may like to extend their time in Whitchurch, there is a town Heritage Trail and a longer Mill Trail to explore. The Bombay Sapphire Distillery is also only 2 miles away. Schedule for the day: 10:30 meet Whitchurch Mill reception. Tea/coffee and biscuits 11:00 guided tour begins 12:30 lunch - sandwiches, crisps, cake tea/coffee Afternoon free to visit the Riches to Ribbons exhibition, the gardens and the wider surroundings of Whitchurch, if you wish. The Mill closes at 5pm. The cost of the visit will be 24.50 plus a small booking fee. This includes all refreshments, group entry plus the guided tour. Participants will need to make their own way to the Whitchurch Silk Mill. 28 Winchester Street RG28 7AL There are 3 free car parks within easy walking distance, 2 non reservable Blue Badge spaces at the Mill and 2 more in the adjacent car park. A minimum of 20 people will be required for the trip to run. Booking will close on Tuesday, 27th May 2025.