About Us

The Northumberland Tartan Company was established in 2001 by Catherine Wylde.

Initially working from her back bedroom at home in Warkworth, Catherine moved to a retail base at The Kirkharle Courtyard in 2003.

Catherine says of those early days... ”Many of you will know that the initial inspiration for my business came, in the immortal words of Ernie Wise, from a poem “wot I wrote”whilst at home during my eldest daughter Grace’s prolonged illness several years ago now. Well my budding literary career was fast brought to a halt when I embarked on the business, but I still do enjoy writing whenever I get the chance, although the speed at which I manage to pen my newsletters would suggest otherwise!”

After five happy years at The Kirkharle Courtyard - and over 120,000 miles driving back and forth to work, Catherine has decided to reduce her carbon footprint and work from premises closer to home. Please keep viewing our website for further updates and progres on our new premises.....!

Catherine is currently working on a booklet relating the long and fascinating history of the plaid in Northumberland and is always delighted to hear more stories and memories to add to her collection. “My passion is to increase awareness of the history of the plaid in our very special part of the world.”