Formerly the 19th century stable block attached to the nearby Sion House, Sion Stables has won awards for the way in which this listed building has been sensitively conserved and brought to life again. Sion Stables houses a museum, licensed restaurant and seminar room and is an initiative of Sion Mills Buildings Preservation Trust and Hearth.

The exhibits tell the story of the historic linen village and bring alive the stories of the mill-owners, the mill-workers and the production of Irish Linen. Herdmans Flax-Spinning Mill was built in 1835 by brothers James, John & George Herdman. Sion Mills was chosen as a rural idyll with available labour and waterpower. The vision was to create a moral, temperate, educated, non-sectarian community in the northwest of Ireland, which was already a prolific flax-growing region. They built a model village with school, churches, and recreational facilities. This is a self-guided facility with an opportunity to view the exhibits at your own pace. Recommended time is approximately sixty minutes. 

Restaurant 1861 at Sion Stables offers a modern café and restaurant experience in an old world setting. The restaurant is operated by Kevin Myers, Head Chef, and the hardworking Restaurant 1861 team open six days a week, offering breakfast, morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Their mission is to offer a warm welcome and unique dining experience to all our guests. 

The Heritage Education Centre is a purpose-built facility for seminars or functions, annexed to the original stable block and built in a similar style. The centre is self-contained with separate disabled and unisex toilets and a small kitchenette. With underfloor heating, a projector and large screen the room can seat 55 people and catering can be arranged. A concertina glass door, which looks out on the courtyard, can be opened in good weather. Guided tours and lectures available for groups with special interests in industrial and architectural heritage.

Opening times

Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 - 20:30
Sunday 12:00 - 20:30
Closed Monday

Prices

No admission charge for museum but donations appreciated. 
Pre-booked, guided walking tour of Sion Mills, with introductory talk in Sion Stables £150 per group.

120A Melmount Road, Sion Mills, Strabane, BT82 9ET