Boyne Valley Wools

Boyne Valley Wools: from sheep to yarn in County Meath

At Boyne Valley Wools, the story behind a woollen scarf begins just outside the studio. On this working farm near Donore in County Meath, you can meet the sheep, watch their fleece become yarn and discover the skills behind handmade wool crafts.

The setting adds another reason to visit. Newgrange is visible across the fields and River Boyne, placing a living craft tradition within one of Ireland’s best-known historic landscapes.

Boyne Valley Wools is run by Alison Fullam Gogan, a fifth-generation sheep farmer who learned spinning from her grandmother.

Alison raises Jacob sheep and hand-spins their wool, using its natural colours to create yarn and finished pieces. Her studio brings farming and craft together: the animals supply the fleece, and the work of preparing, spinning, weaving and knitting gives it a new purpose.

The booked “Spin Me a Yarn” experience introduces visitors to the flock and the process of turning fleece into something useful.

Watch how wool is prepared, brushed through a process called carding, and spun into yarn. Seeing each stage makes it easier to appreciate the time and skill behind a handmade garment.

There is a practical element, too. Under Alison’s guidance, participants make a small felt sheep using wool from the farm — a souvenir with a direct connection to the place they have visited.

The experience offers a different kind of stop on a Boyne Valley itinerary, particularly for visitors interested in animals, textiles or trying a craft.

The studio shop stocks Alison’s hand-spun yarn and handmade woollen pieces, alongside crafts by local makers. Her work includes woven scarves, knitted hats and other wool products.

For knitters and craft enthusiasts, it is an opportunity to discover yarn close to its source. For other visitors, it is a place to find an Irish-made gift and learn how it was produced.

Boyne Valley Wools is at The Leck, Roughgrange, near Donore. Its proximity to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre makes it worth considering when planning a day around the area.

The view of Newgrange from the farm is part of the setting; a farm experience does not include admission to the monument. Arrange any heritage-site visit separately.

Check the official Boyne Valley Wools website or contact Alison before travelling to confirm studio visiting arrangements, experience availability and current prices.

Allow roughly 45–60 minutes for the advertised “Spin Me a Yarn” experience, and wear footwear suitable for a working farm. Free parking is available on site.

Visitors with access requirements should enquire before booking. The business describes ramp access to the studio and experience space, but notes that the visitor toilet is not wheelchair accessible.

Address: The Leck, Roughgrange, Donore, County Meath, A92 TFD0
Phone: 086 893 1692
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://boynevalleywools.com/