We are proud to share that Blarney Woollen Mills has been named a Finalist in the Best in Tourism, Culture & Arts category at the 2026 Cork Business of the Year Awards, organised by the Cork Business Association. The Cork Business Association plays a vital role in representing and supporting businesses across Cork City, recognising organisations that make a meaningful contribution to the region’s commercial and cultural landscape.
This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to Irish heritage, craftsmanship, and visitor experience in Cork.
Public Voting Now Open
Public voting for the 2026 Cork Business of the Year Awards is now open.
Blarney Woollen Mills is nominated in the Best in Tourism, Culture and Arts category. If you have visited us or experienced the Blarney Aran Experience, we would truly appreciate your vote.
Vote here:
https://forms.gle/GeWKATL67vCNsy9W8
Voting closes March 13, 2026. Thank you for supporting local Cork business.
Recognising Excellence in Tourism, Culture & Arts
Picture: Rebekah Barlok
The Best in Tourism, Culture & Arts award honours a business that has made a significant contribution to Cork City’s tourism and cultural landscape. As outlined in the official award criteria, nominees are recognised for promoting heritage, visitor engagement, and enhancing Cork’s reputation as a vibrant destination.
To be shortlisted in this category is a meaningful milestone for our entire team.
Celebrating 50 Years of Irish Heritage
Blarney Woollen Mills is one of Cork’s most recognisable visitor destinations and retail experiences, with a strong focus on Irish heritage and craftsmanship. Founded in 1823, the historic mill has been carefully preserved and developed into a vibrant cultural and retail space that welcomes visitors from across the world. In September 2025, Blarney Woollen Mills proudly celebrates 50 years in business as a family owned retail and tourism destination, marking five decades of growth, resilience and commitment to Irish design.
Each year we welcome thousands of visitors from Ireland and overseas who come to experience authentic Irish craft and culture.
The Blarney Aran Experience
A key highlight of our visitor offering is the Blarney Aran Experience.
Here, guests can watch Aran sweaters being crafted on site, learn about traditional Irish stitch patterns, and connect with the story of Irish wool production. This live demonstration of craftsmanship creates a meaningful and memorable cultural experience for visitors to Cork.
By bringing knitwear manufacturing back to life within Blarney Woollen Mills, we continue to preserve traditional skills while supporting sustainable Irish production.
Supporting Cork’s Tourism & Local Community
Picture: Denis Minihane
Blarney Woollen Mills is proud to play an active role in supporting Cork tourism and the local community.
As one of Cork’s most recognised heritage retail destinations, we work closely with tourism partners, community groups, and local organisations to strengthen the region’s visitor experience.
Community partnerships are central to our approach. We support Blarney GAA Club and the Blarney and District Chamber of Commerce, contributing to local sport, tourism, and business development. We also collaborate with Autism Friendly Blarney to help create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for visitors and families.
Education is another important focus. We partner with local schools to showcase knitwear production in action. Students learn about Irish wool, traditional Aran stitch patterns, and the craftsmanship behind authentic Irish knitwear. This helps preserve heritage skills while inspiring the next generation.
Blarney Woollen Mills actively participates in Fáilte Ireland initiatives and attends key industry events such as Meitheal and ITOA workshops. Through strong relationships with tourism bodies and tour operators, we continue to strengthen our role within Ireland’s visitor economy.
We also collaborate with Excursions Ireland, welcoming international travel and cruise groups to Blarney as part of curated Irish visitor experiences. These partnerships help showcase Cork and Irish culture to a global audience, supporting Ireland’s reputation as a high quality tourism destination.
Through our international eCommerce platform, Blarney.com, we extend Cork’s cultural reach worldwide. Customers can connect with Irish heritage and craftsmanship long after their visit to County Cork.
Thank you to our customers, team, suppliers, and community. This recognition belongs to you all.
