The Hawes Ropemakers

If you’re spending a day in Hawes, come and visit the Hawes Ropemakers (only 100 yards from the Dales Countryside Museum and large car park). Watch the skilled craft of traditional rope-making in progress from thin strands of yarn twisted in the traditional way to form very strong ropes and see the twist being put in our various ropes of different thicknesses which include: bell ropes, bannister/stair ropes, barrier ropes, dog leads, various other pet accessories and many different braids.

In our refreshments room (formerly the Candlewick Room), sit back, relax and watch a 9 minute rope-making video (which is also available to buy in the shop). Information boards exhibit many interesting facts on the candlewicks, bannister ropes and the restoration of the Wensleydale Railway.

Outhwaite’s Ropemakers are one of only four specific Bell Ropemakers left in this Country. Our ropes are hand-made from flax and include pure wool handles (known as ‘sallies’). Bell Ropes are despatched to Churches all over the country and travel as far away as Australia and America.

Snacks with hot and cold drinks are available from our vending machines. Crayons and paper are ready at the waiting for entertaining our younger visitors with a competition for the best picture.