Historic Glass Quarter is now easier to find than ever
Following months of hard work by teams across Dudley Council a series of new brown tourism signs are in place.
Following months of hard work by teams across Dudley Council a series of new brown tourism signs are in place.
Officially known as Tourist Destination Signs, these markers are only awarded to independently recognised tourist attractions, heritage and leisure destinations that meet high quality visitor experience criteria and will help direct visitors to Stourbridge’s historic Glass Quarter.
A total of 14 new signs now proudly mark the gateway to one of our region’s most prestigious heritage destinations, often referred to as the ‘Crystal Mile’. This local landmark is the historic heart of British glassmaking and for over 400 years has combined history and innovation to build an international reputation for excellence in glass.
The Glass Quarter is centred around three distinctive visitor attractions. The Red House Glass Cone offers a unique insight into Stourbridge’s industrial glassmaking past, showcasing one of the country’s most iconic historic structures and live heritage interpretation. The Stourbridge Glass Museum tells the story of over 400 years of locally made glass through nationally significant collections, exhibitions, and demonstrations. At the Ruskin Glass Centre, visitors can explore a vibrant creative hub that is home to more than 25 craft businesses, working studios, a heritage and arts centre and café facilities. Each of these cultural landmarks is featured on the new signage.
The new highly visible signs are a valuable addition and will help even more people discover and experience Stourbridge’s world-renowned glass legacy.
Anne Boyd, director for growth and infrastructure said:
“Stourbridge’s’ historic Glass Quarter is one of our borough’s most treasured cultural assets, so we’re incredibly proud to see it celebrated with these new brown tourist signs.”
The Glass Quarter visitor attractions are located along the main A491 just off the Stourbridge Ring Road and are within a few minutes’ drive of each other. There is free car parking at each venue.
For more information, please visit https://glassquarter.dudley.gov.uk/welcome.
Notes to editors
Pictured (L-R) Kate Jones, DMBC's Museums Manager; Lorraine Kenny, Centre & Events Manager - Ruskin Glass Centre; Alexander Goodger, Director - Stourbridge Glass Museum; Nicola Beckley DMBC's Tourism Development Officer.