Located in the heart of County Donegal, Ireland, Magee 1866 is a beacon of traditional Irish clothing and heritage fashion garments. Known for its luxury wool garments, particularly the iconic Donegal Tweed, Magee 1866 has been a cornerstone of Irish heritage fashion for over 150 years. The brand’s handwoven tweed, men’s and women’s tweed fashion, and Irish tweed suits are renowned worldwide for their quality, durability, and timeless style.
The History of Magee 1866
Founded in 1866 by John Magee, the company began as a small draper’s shop in Donegal Town. Over the years, it evolved into a thriving business, specializing in handwoven tweed from local wool. Today, Magee 1866 is still a family-run business, with the fifth generation of the Magee family at the helm. Despite its growth and international recognition, the company remains true to its roots, continuing to produce high-quality, traditional Irish clothing.
Donegal Tweed: A Timeless Classic
Donegal Tweed is synonymous with Magee 1866. This luxury wool garment is renowned for its unique flecked pattern, a result of the handweaving process. The tweed is woven from the wool of local sheep, which gives it a distinctive texture and warmth. Whether in the form of men’s and women’s tweed fashion or Irish tweed suits, Donegal Tweed is a testament to Irish craftsmanship and tradition.
Visiting Magee 1866
Visitors to Magee 1866 can expect a unique experience steeped in Irish heritage. The flagship store in Donegal Town offers a wide range of products, from traditional Irish clothing to more contemporary fashion pieces. Here are some essential details for tourists:
- What to See: The store showcases a vast selection of Magee 1866 products, including Donegal Tweed clothing, luxury wool garments, and other heritage fashion garments. Visitors can also see the weaving process in action at the weaving mill in the nearby village of Ardara.
- Tours: Magee 1866 offers guided tours of their weaving mill, where visitors can learn about the history of Donegal Tweed and see the weaving process firsthand.
- Admission: Entry to the store is free. However, there may be a small fee for the weaving mill tour.
- Tips for Tourists: Be sure to check the opening hours before your visit as they can vary depending on the season. Also, remember to bring a camera to capture the beautiful tweed creations and the picturesque surroundings of County Donegal.
Practical Information
County Donegal is located in the northwest of Ireland and is easily accessible by car or public transport. The Magee 1866 store is located in Donegal Town, while the weaving mill is in Ardara, about a 30-minute drive away. Both locations offer parking facilities. There are also plenty of accommodation options in Donegal Town for those wishing to extend their visit.
In conclusion, a visit to Magee 1866 offers a unique insight into the world of traditional Irish clothing and Donegal Tweed. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply interested in Irish heritage, this iconic brand is a must-visit when in County Donegal, Ireland.
