Life in Stourbridge

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The name ‘Stourbridge’ refers to an ancient bridge built over the River Stour in 950 AD, creating a crossing that developed so successfully as a trading point that by 1430 the town was able to open its first school on what has developed to become King Edward VI College, the most prestigious educational college in the region.

The town is renowned for its creative flair and entrepreneurial spirit, skills that were put to good use in the 17th century when Stourbridge had become a world leader in the glass industry, and again 150 years ago when, situated in the heart of the area which created the industrial revolution, Stourbridge pioneered many manufacturing processes and exported its iron, nails and chains all over the world. The first American train to run on tracks was made here in Stourbridge!

Today the medieval market town continues to produce some of the finest glass in the world, its glass quarter hosts a number of prestigious studios where international artists produce and export premium products and the town hosts the International Festival of Glass. The wealth created by the glass industry and Industrial Revolution is still reflected in the town’s architecture today.

The High Street and residential quarter feature an abundance of stunning Victorian buildings, all adding to the charm and character of the area. The sheep farming and wool trade referred to in the Doomsday Book of 1086 no longer exist but the town still borders the beautiful open Worcestershire countryside which was home to and inspired Edward Elgar.

Stourbridge is a historic market town with a population of around 57,000, making it a peaceful and friendly environment. With close proximity to the city of Birmingham as well as the English countryside, it is an ideal home for first-time visitors to the UK.

Location/transport links

The town has excellent transport links with Birmingham (15 miles),Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare (37 miles), London (128 miles) and Manchester (87 miles) via a number of bus, train and coach services.

Birmingham International Airport is situated approximately 40 minutes away by train or car.

Entertainment

Stourbridge offers a number of fine pubs, but for the full clubbing experience, head down to Birmingham (30 minutes via train) where you’ll find a vast array of cocktail bars, nightclubs and much more.

Shopping

Merry Hill, one of the top indoor shopping centres in the Midlands and the 4^th largest in the UK, is located just 15 minutes away by bus. Peruse over 220 stores or visit the food hall (over 12 different places to eat) and other restaurants located close by.

The main Stourbridge town centre is made up of a number of shopping areas (High Street, Ryemarket, Crown Centre, and Victoria Passage) and features known retailers as well as a large number of independent specialist shops, showcasing Stourbridge’s unique character. See shops by category

Eating out

There are a number of reputable pubs located on the Stourbridge High street and its surrounding areas such as the Duke, Mitre Inn and Wetherspoons.

Merry hill food hall and nearby restaurants are also located a short distance away.

Check out the Great Food Guide for more information.

Sport

Living in Stourbridge will give you the opportunity to participate in various sports, from football to rugby to cricket to tennis. Click here for more information on sporting clubs

Live music & events

Stourbridge and its surrounding regions host a regular assortment of live concerts for music of all genres. See what’s on

Cinema and Theatre

Residing at the Merry Hill retail park is the 10 screen ODEON cinema, showing all of the latest movies to hit the big screen.

The Stourbridge Theatre Company is a local amateur theatre group, putting on small productions in the area.

For larger scale productions, take a trip to the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre (11 miles), one of the country’s leading regional theatres.

Museums

The Black Country Living Museum, an open-air museum of rebuilt historic buildings is located 15 minutes away in the Dudley area. Here you can see re-assembled buildings such as an authentic chemist shop, old style bakery and local pub. Other attractions include rides and a canal boat trip.

The Red House Glass Cone (a 90 foot brick structure used for the manufacture of glass in the 18^th century) is a sight to see in the Wordsley area of Stourbridge.

It is one of only four cones left standing in the UK and when visiting the cone, you can enjoy glass blowing demonstrations, a cafe, shops, crafts and other exhibits.