Upcoming Events at the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection
02 Feb 2026 –– Community
We’re delighted to share details of a series of upcoming events hosted by the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection over the coming months. Following the fantastic response to last year’s Christmas Sale, this new programme offers even more opportunities to explore the Collection, both online and in person.
From specialist talks to behind-the-scenes tours and hands-on study days, there’s something for everyone with an interest in textiles, costume, and fashion history.
Online Talk: Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth & The Collection
Tuesday 17th February | 7:00pm | £6.50
An introduction to Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth, founder of the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection. This talk explores her motivations for collecting and highlights key items she made, purchased, or acquired, offering valuable context to the Collection as it exists today.
Behind the Scenes Store Tours
Saturday 14th March | 11:00am & 2:00pm | £12
Go behind the scenes with a guided tour of Gawthorpe’s custom-built stores, home to over 30,000 textile objects. This is a rare opportunity to learn how the Collection is cared for and to view a selection of remarkable objects up close.
Study Day: Patchwork & Quilting
Saturday 18th April | 10:00am – 3:30pm | £33.50
A full-day study session led by Curator Rachel Midgley, offering the chance to view some of the Collection’s most beautiful and interesting quilts and coverlets. The session explores design features, fabrics, and techniques in detail.
Study Visit: Costume Accessories
Saturday 13th June | 1:00pm – 4:00pm | £23.50
This afternoon study session provides a hands-on look at fashionable accessories from the Collection. Guided by Curator Rachel Midgley, attendees will explore bags, shoes, fans, hats, and more, spanning three centuries of fashion history.
Tickets for all events are available now, with full details provided at the point of booking. These sessions are ideal for anyone with a passion for textiles, fashion history, or behind-the-scenes museum collections.
