Our Story
Burnfoot Wool is a family-run business based in the heart of the Ewes Valley, Langholm. Founded by husband-and-wife team Andrew and Gillian Elliot, alongside Andrew’s mother, Anne, they have transformed Burnfoot Farm into a thriving hub for high-quality, sustainable wool products.
Their farm is home to 1,500 South Country Cheviot cross New Zealand Romney sheep and 30 Galloway cattle, spread across 3,000 acres of traditional hill farmland. While Andrew’s family has long bred South Country Cheviots—well-established in the region—he made the decision in 2003 to introduce New Zealand Romney genetics. This strategic move resulted in a more productive, easy-lambing ewe and enhanced wool production. From the outset, Andrew dreamed of crafting a lambswool blanket from his own flock’s wool.
In 2021, while working in the shearing shed as a wool handler, Gillian decided to bring Andrew’s vision to life. As a keen crocheter with a passion for sustainability, she recognized the opportunity to create durable, natural products that told the story of their farm. She immersed herself in the wool process—skirting, scouring, carding, and spinning—before seeking a partner who could handle the entire transformation from fleece to yarn.
After extensive research, countless emails, and phone calls, Gillian connected with Halifax Spinning Mill in the summer of 2022. Paul and Mharie took 60kg of lambswool, initially to be spun into Double Knit yarn, but with enough remaining to produce weaving yarn as well. This marked the moment when Andrew’s dream of a lambswool blanket—and Gillian’s vision for sustainability—became a reality.
We are proud to collaborate with skilled local businesses, keeping our process as close to home as possible. Our wool is dyed by FTS Dyers and woven by Drove Weavers in Langholm, with final finishing completed by Schofields in Galashiels. What was once a raw material with little market value is now transformed into premium, sustainable products.
Today, Burnfoot Wool produces 4ply, Double Knit, and Aran weight yarn, alongside our beautifully crafted lambswool blankets. We are passionate about adding value to this incredible natural resource while maintaining a strong connection to our heritage and the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders.