Name: Red House Glass Cone
Rating: 5.0

Red House Glass Cone

Red House Glass Cone, High Street, Wordsley, Stourbridge, UK

1-99 Years

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Description

The Red House Glass Cone is one of the best things to do with kids in the West Midlands, offering an immersive look at the region’s rich industrial heritage. Standing 100ft tall, this Grade II listed site is one of only four remaining glass cones in the UK and serves as a fascinating hub for history and creativity. It is a fantastic destination for families seeking an educational day out within the historic Stourbridge Glass Quarter.

General admission to the site is free, making it an accessible option for a family outing. While entry is free, certain workshops, craft sessions, and guided tours may have specific fees and require advance booking. Visitors should check the official event listings to plan their visit and secure spots for popular activities.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids to explore traditional craftsmanship, the Red House Glass Cone provides a unique, hands-on experience. With its combination of historical exhibits, artisan studios, and family trails, it offers a perfect blend of learning and play for visitors of all ages.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

Interactive Family Trails: Engaging self-guided tours that help children discover the history of the site through fun challenges.
Artisan Craft Studios: A collection of independent workshops where visitors can watch skilled artists at work.
Hands-on Craft Sessions: Regular activities including glass fusing and creative workshops for various skill levels.
Historical Exhibitions: Insightful displays detailing 200 years of glassmaking history and the site’s industrial past.
Canalside Setting: A picturesque location perfect for a family stroll or a relaxing break by the water.

Top 5 Highlights

The Cone Structure: Standing 100ft high, the structure itself is an architectural marvel that allows kids to visualize the scale of historical glass production.
The Visitor Centre: The ideal starting point for your visit, featuring new interpretation panels that explain the history of the Stourbridge Glass Quarter.
Hot Glass Studio: Watch talented artists work with molten glass—a captivating process that is always a hit with younger visitors.
Artisan Craft Studios: Pop into the various studios to see everything from ceramics to unique glassware being made by local crafters.
The Courtyard Gallery: A versatile space that hosts changing exhibitions and provides a great look at the site’s historical restoration.

Facilities

Accessibility: The site is wheelchair accessible, with lifts to viewing galleries and accessible toilets.
Buggy Parking: Designated space available to ensure ease of movement around the galleries.
Refreshments: Heavenly Baking is available on-site, serving a variety of cakes and drinks.
Toilets: Modern facilities are available, including baby-changing areas.
Gift Shop: Stocks a wide range of unique, locally-made glassware and souvenirs.

Pro-Tips

Check the Website: Since some craft studios are independently run, check their individual social media pages if you are visiting for a specific artist.
Plan Ahead: Pre-book any workshops (such as glass fusing) via the ticket booking link to ensure availability, as these sessions fill up quickly.
Timing: Arrive early or aim for a weekday visit to avoid the busiest periods on weekends.

Targeted FAQ

Is it worth it for toddlers? The site is family-friendly, though toddlers will most enjoy the outdoor areas and the sensory experience of watching the glass artisans at work.
How long does a visit take? Most families spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the cone, visiting the various craft studios, and participating in a creative workshop.
Where is the best place to park? Free car parking is provided directly on-site at the Red House Glass Cone, making it very convenient for families travelling by car.

The Visitor Verdict: What Parents Really Think
What Visitors Love

The atmosphere is frequently praised as warm and welcoming, thanks to the friendly staff and enthusiastic craft tenants.
The balance of historical education and active, hands-on craft sessions makes it a versatile destination for different age groups.
The recent site restoration has been a major hit, with visitors commenting on the high-quality interpretation panels and clean facilities.

What Visitors Don't Like

The site's size is manageable but can feel small if you only focus on one area; families are encouraged to explore the studios for a full experience.
Some visitors note that because the craft studios are independent, their opening hours can sometimes vary.

What to see

Detailed Inventory

19th-Century Glass Blowing Tools: Historical implements used in the manufacture of glass until 1936.
Restoration Panels: Informative displays showcasing the massive 2024 restoration project that returned the cone to its former glory.
Glass Fusing Samples: Examples of the intricate work created during the centre's popular workshops.
Stourbridge Glass Heritage Displays: Collections showcasing the famous glassware once shipped across the globe.
Titanic Glassware Exhibits: Learn about the historical connection between local glassmakers and famous vessels like the Titanic.
Courtyard Craft Installations: Rotating pieces created by the resident artists currently working on-site.
Industrial Era Signage: Original artifacts recovered from the site's working days.
Visitor Discovery Trails: Specially designed maps and activity sheets for children to follow around the premises.

Beyond the Main Attraction

Stourbridge Glass Museum: A short trip away, this award-winning museum offers deep dives into the global significance of local glass.
Dudley Canal and Caverns: Experience an underground guided boat tour, perfect for an adventurous afternoon.
Black Country Living Museum: Explore a reconstructed historic village that brings the region's industrial past to life.
Himley Hall & Park: A beautiful estate featuring woodland walks, a children’s play area, and an art gallery.
Dudley Zoo and Castle: Home to hundreds of animals and an 11th-century castle, ideal for combining with your visit.

New for 2026

The Glassblower’s Archive: A new interactive digital exhibit launching mid-2026, featuring oral histories from former workers.
Canalside Sculpture Trail: An expanded outdoor path featuring new glass-based art installations from resident artists, commissioned for the 2026 season.
Junior Curator Workshops: A series of new weekend events where children can learn how to handle and classify historical artifacts.
Stourbridge Glass Heritage Month: A special July 2026 programme featuring live demonstrations and visiting glass artists.
Sustainability Studio: A new focus area in the Courtyard Gallery dedicated to the art of upcycling glass and sustainable manufacturing.

Events: For more upcoming events please visit here.

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Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

The Red House Glass Cone does not currently offer public-facing birthday party packages. For private event or room hire inquiries, please contact the site team directly.

Contact Email: [email protected]

Monday to Friday: 10am to 3pm.
Saturday and Sunday: 11am to 4pm.

Address: Red House Glass Cone, High Street, Wordsley, Stourbridge, UK

Post Code: DY8 4AZ

Council: Dudley

County: West Midlands

Rail: The closest railway station is Stourbridge Junction.
Car: From Stourbridge Junction you can catch the shuttle train to Stourbridge Town which brings you to the bus station.
Bus Number: 16, 17 and 17a. Get off at Brook Street.
Parking: Free for all our visitors. There are two dedicated parking spaces for Blue Badge holders.