Stourbridge Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, and cultural highlights of Stourbridge. Follow our week-long itinerary to explore the scenic views, hike on picturesque trails, and indulge in local cuisine.


Stourbridge is a charming town located in the West Midlands region of England. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and diverse local culture, Stourbridge is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking unique experiences.

Introduction to Stourbridge

Stourbridge is a hidden gem in the heart of England, offering a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you want to explore the town’s rich history, dive into outdoor adventures, or indulge in local cuisine, Stourbridge has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Stourbridge

Here are the top attractions to visit in Stourbridge:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Red House Glass Cone: This iconic glass museum and factory offers a glimpse into the town’s glass-making heritage. Visitors can watch expert glassblowers in action and learn about the history of glassmaking in Stourbridge.

  • Mary Stevens Park: This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the town’s hustle and bustle. With a lake, tennis court, children’s play area, and a host of other amenities, the park is a great spot for families to unwind and relax.

Natural Attractions of Stourbridge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clent Hills: These picturesque hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are a popular spot for hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. The hills have several well-marked trails for visitors to choose from based on their fitness level.

  • Waseley Hills Country Park: This beautiful park boasts of vast meadows, a nature reserve and is a haven for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stourbridge

Stourbridge is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking trails in and around the town. The Clent Hills Walk is one of the most popular hiking trails in Stourbridge, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Stourbridge: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Bonded Warehouse (Stourbridge Navigation Trust): The bonded warehouse is an authentic, restored 18th-century building and displays the extensive history of the canal system and its influence on Stourbridge’s economic development.

  • Stourbridge Canal: The canal is a serene spot in the center of town, offering scenic views and boat rides. A perfect spot for a leisurely stroll on a summer evening.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stourbridge

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Stourbridge:

Day 1: Visit the Red House Glass Cone and the Ruskin Glass Centre

Day 2: Hike on the Clent Hills

Day 3: Explore the town centrers of Stourbridge. Visit the Stourton Castle and Grounds or Bonded Warehouse Museum.

Day 4: Take a canal boat ride and explore the Stourbridge Canal

Day 5: Visit the historic Hagley Hall and grounds

Day 6: Go birdwatching at Waseley Hills Country Park

Day 7: Indulge in local cuisine at one of the town’s top-rated restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Stourbridge

Stourbridge has a diverse culinary scene, with several top-rated restaurants and cafes offering delicious cuisine to visitors. Some of the top dishes to try in Stourbridge are:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Faggots and peas: A traditional dish made with meatballs and mashed peas.

  • Pork pies: A delicious pastry filled with chopped pork and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Black Country ale: A unique dark beer with a distinct flavor.

  • Ales from Sadler’s Brewery

Where to Stay in Stourbridge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Stourbridge has several accommodation options for visitors ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the popular hotels in Stourbridge are the Bell Hotel and the Stourbridge Hotel.

What to Buy in Stourbridge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Stourbridge must take a piece of the town home with them as a souvenir. A few things to consider taking back with you are:

  • Glassware from the Red House Glass Cone

  • Local ale from a Sadler’s Brewery

Local Culture and Customs of Stourbridge

Stourbridge locals take great pride in their town’s rich heritage and friendly community. Visitors should be respectful of this culture and learn about the town’s history and customs.

Best Time to Visit Stourbridge

Stourbridge is a year-round destination, although the summer months (June to September) are the best time to visit, offering mild temperatures and sunny days.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stourbridge

Do:

  • Respect the town’s cultural and historical heritage.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in public places.

  • Be loud and disruptive in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stourbridge

Stourbridge is a relatively safe town, with a low crime rate. Visitors should still exercise basic safety precautions such as avoiding unlit and desolate areas.

Health in Stourbridge

Stourbridge has a well-developed healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics in and around the town.

Getting to Stourbridge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Stourbridge can get there via the following transportation options:

Airports Near Stourbridge

The closest airports to Stourbridge are Birmingham airport and East Midlands Airport.

Bus Stations Near Stourbridge

The Stourbridge Bus Station is located in the center of the town and offers regular bus services to surrounding areas.

Other Options

Visitors can also get to Stourbridge via train or car.

How to Get Around in Stourbridge

Stourbridge has a well-developed transportation system, with regular bus and train services taking visitors to all parts of the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Stourbridge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations to explore besides Stourbridge are Bridgnorth, Dudley, and Wolverhampton. Visitors can take day trips to these nearby towns and explore their unique attractions.

Conclusion

Stourbridge offers visitors a unique blend of historical and cultural attractions, delicious local cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Plan a trip to Stourbridge and discover the hidden gem nestled in the heart of England.

Red House Glass Cone Red House Glass Cone