Aran Islands Store Open for 2026 Season!

 

Celebrating the Reopening of Carraig Donn on Inis Mór 

Carraig Donn are delighted to share the wonderful news that our much-loved store on Inis Mór in the Aran Islands is officially open again for the new season. Welcoming visitors seven days a week, the store is ready to greet both national and international travellers as they explore the beauty, culture and heritage of this stunning island. 

As the oldest craft store on Aran, the Carraig Donn store on Inis Mór has long been part of the island’s story. For generations of visitors, stepping through its doors has been a memorable part of the Aran experience — a place to discover authentic Irish craftsmanship, thoughtful gifts and timeless fashion. 

 

A Story That Began in 1965 

The Carraig Donn story began in 1965, when the late Máire and Pádraig Hughes founded the business. Máire, a remarkable mother of thirteen, opened the very first craft store named Carraig Donn with a simple but powerful vision: to celebrate Irish craft and knitwear. 

The shop began with a carefully chosen selection of Irish knitwear, gifts and jewellery, reflecting the heritage and artistry of Ireland. A few years later, the Hughes family expanded their dream to the Aran Islands, opening a store on Inis Mór in 1969. 

For the Hughes children, the family business was woven into everyday life. Summers were spent on the island creating crafts, helping customers and learning the values of hard work and creativity. Those days on Inis Mór hold countless cherished memories for the family and remain a special part of the Carraig Donn story today. 

 

A Proud Irish Heritage 

Today, Pat and Vincent Hughes continue to lead the business, carrying forward the legacy started by their parents. Under their guidance, Carraig Donn has grown into one of Ireland’s most recognisable retail brands while remaining deeply connected to its heritage roots. 

In 2017, the Irish knitwear division was rebranded as Aran Woollen Mills, strengthening its identity as a leader in authentic Irish knitwear. Today, the company is Ireland’s largest producer of Irish knitwear, exporting thousands of garments around the world each year. 

One of the most remarkable moments in the company’s history came during a QVC broadcast in the United States, when an incredible 35,000 sweaters were sold in a single day — a testament to the global love for Irish knitwear and craftsmanship. 

 

Evolving With the Times 

While Carraig Donn proudly honours its heritage, the company has continued to evolve across generations. From its beginnings as a small craft shop, it has flourished into a modern Irish high-street retailer with an extensive range of fashion, jewellery and homeware collections. 

Visitors to the Inis Mór store today will find many of Carraig Donn’s contemporary lifestyle ranges, including exclusive labels such as Éidin, West Quay, Kelly & Grace, and more — blending modern style with timeless Irish inspiration. 

 

Award-Winning Excellence 

Carraig Donn’s commitment to quality, innovation and customer experience continues to be recognised across the retail industry. In 2025, the company was honoured with the prestigious Best Fashion Store award at the Retail Excellence Ireland Awards, a proud milestone for the entire Carraig Donn team. 

 

Visit Us on Inis Mór 

With the store now open again for the season, Carraig Donn is excited to welcome visitors from near and far to the Aran Islands. Whether you’re discovering the island’s breathtaking landscapes, exploring its rich heritage or simply enjoying a day trip, a visit to the Carraig Donn store is a must. 

Step inside and discover beautiful gifts, Irish fashion, knitwear and more, all inspired by the spirit of Aran. 

We look forward to welcoming you.