Virtual Errigal
Price: From €5
Cottage Tour
Situated in the heart of Dunlewey, the Weaver’s Cottage Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland’s rich weaving traditions and the life of the local Ferry family.
PRICE
From €5
DURATION
1/2 Hour
Teach Mháire Mhór
Known as Teach Mháire Mhór, this cottage was once home to Manus, Pádraig, and Sophie Ferry, and has been lovingly preserved to showcase the traditional lifestyle and craftsmanship that shaped their lives. Manus Ferry, a world-renowned weaver, earned international recognition for his exceptional work, with his tweed sought after by notable figures like Henry McElhinney. Despite never leaving Dunlewey, Manus’s skill in weaving helped put Donegal Tweed on the map. His sister Sophie played an integral role in the family business, managing their small shop and collecting wool. She also created natural dyes from plants and flowers, contributing to the vibrant colors of their textiles. The story of their lives is beautifully woven into the tour experience.
The Weaver’s Cottage Tour invites you to take a step back in time and explore traditional weaving techniques and the life of the Ferry family.
The tour begins with an audio-visual presentation, offering insight into the history of Dunlewey, the Ferry homestead, and the local weaving trade.
Next, guests witness a live spinning and weaving demonstration, where our skilled guides bring the intricate art of hand-loom weaving to life. Traditional spinning wheels and looms are in action, showcasing the precision and care that goes into every piece. From wool preparation to setting up the loom, our guides explain each step, offering a hands-on understanding of the craft.
A highlight of the tour is Sophie’s Shop, a nostalgic glimpse into the past. The shop’s interior has been carefully preserved, with original jars, containers, and goods still displayed as they were many years ago.
Guided by our knowledgeable staff, you’ll experience the rustic charm of Irish rural life such as the comforting scent of turf fire and the enduring legacy of the Ferry family, where every corner of this beautifully preserved cottage holds a story waiting to be told.
Our Experiences
What Our Visitors Are Saying
We had a fantastic day at Dunlewey Centre during Heritage Week. This place is most definitely an underrated gem. The friendly farm animals, relaxing boat trip, and brilliant playground were the highlights of our visit. The play park is probably one of the biggest and best-maintained we’ve ever been to—perfect for families with kids.Anita, on Google Reviews
We usually take a wee visit to Dunlewey every year, and it never disappoints. Our boys absolutely love it. There were a few new attractions this year, which was a lovely surprise, and the boat trip on the lake is always a highlight. We’ll definitely be back next year. The food, the music, and the warm atmosphere make this great value for money.Sabrina, on TripAdvisor
Dunlewey Centre is a must-see experience. We loved every minute of our visit. In the Café, we enjoyed coffee, tea, and delicious sandwiches. The staff provide excellent service. We also took a scenic tour on the lake with Peter and Paul—it was fascinating. Plenty of beautiful crafts and prints to admire and purchase. Stunning views!Pearl, on Google Reviews
This is a good day out. You can go horse riding/trekking at the entrance to the centre. You can go for long or short walks around the centre, hill or road, your choice, very scenic. You can purchase souvenirs, food, a little bit of history, with a wee story thrown in to give you an idea of life in the old days.Aisling, on TripAdvisor
Despite living not too far away from Dunlewey it was our first visit and I was amazed at how fabulous this little hidden gem is! Lots of exciting things for kids to do, ours are aged between 2 and 8, the bumper cars and pedalos were a huge hit as was the great playground and zip wire.Joy, on Google Reviews
Great day out! We took the cottage tour and it was brilliant, so informative and fun (Martina was our guide). We also took the boat trip on Dunlewey Lake and it was class, great views of the surrounding scenery and again lots of history and local stories. A must visit if you are in County Donegal.Ciara, on TripAdvisor
Fantastic place for children and families. We took the cottage and boat tour, which also included free entry into the play park. The cottage was a walk through time and really interesting. The lady taking it showed us how to yarn wool and it was great. The boat ride was refreshing and gave a detailed account of the surrounding land.Margaret, on Google Reviews
A great day out for the whole family. We did the boat trip on the lake, the tour of the old house and enjoyed the craft fair that was on. The kids loved the bumper cars, the peddle boats and the indoor play area. The outdoor play area looks like it was just upgraded and the kids had great fun there.Ed, on TripAdvisor
A very well stocked gift shop as you enter the centre. A wide variety of cards, art work, jewelery knitwear, soaps, candles among a huge variety of giftware. A very friendly, smiling and helpful staff member made us feel so welcome and also recommended the local amenities and accommodation.Evelyn, on Google Reviews
Brilliant family day out. We have 3 kids under 4 year old. Decent food cafe, bumper cars, paddle boats, playground were brilliant. Very friendly staff, give our children on a go anything they wanted and if they didn’t like something they kindly helped them out and suggested something better for them.Aidan, on TripAdvisor
