There are only four surviving glass cones in the UK. This one at Stourbridge is the best preserved. At one time there would have been many dotted around the landscape. Glass cones were quite common in the UK and first appeared around the end of the 17th century.
Glass cones were used to provide a work space for the glassmakers and at the same time they acted as a giant chimney for the furnace itself. Through the use of underground tunnels, air was channelled to the furnace to ensure that the high temperatures necessary for glass making were achieved. Glass cones should not be confused with the kilns of the potteries which were in effect large ovens where ceramics were fired.
The current site was purchased in 1788 by a Richard Bradley and the Red House Cone was completed around 1790. It changed hands several times and in 1916 Stuart Crystal purchased the large glassworks ( now disused ) across the road. In 1920 they purchased the Red House Cone.
Production ceased here in 1936 and was moved to Vine Street in Birmingham. A new factory was opened in Gwent in 1965. The Red House Cone is a Grade 2 listed building and after the closure of Stuart Crystal the restoration of the buildings and restored craft shops continued until in 2002 it was opened as a visitor attraction.
Inside the cone the building becomes even more impressive than from the outside where its size is misleading. The attraction features working glassmakers, an exhibition, information on the history of glassmaking, a tea room and a Stuart Crystal shop. This is an attraction suitable for all the family and there is plenty to do and see.
Red House Cone, High Street, Wordsley, Stourbridge, DY8 4AZ. Tel: 01384 812750
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