The Forge Mill Needle Museum in Redditch was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1983 and it is dedicated to showcasing the needle and fishing tackle industry that took place in Redditch in Victorian times. This is a fascinating museum and of interest to all age groups. There is ample parking on site, a gift shop and picnic tables for those that wish to bring their own food. There is no restaurant or cafe on site.
There are exhibitions and demonstrations and many examples of needles and the work that has been made using fine needles in the leather and textile industries. The museum is right by the ruins of Bordesley Abbey which is the site of a medieval Cistercian Abbey with extensive excavations. The Visitor Centre which is housed in a 16th century barn documents the history of the Abbey until its dissolution by Henry VIII in 1538.
Forge Mill Needle Museum & Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre
Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY. Tel: 01527 62509
Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY. Tel: 01527 62509
For more photographs of the Needle Museum & Bordesley Abbey click here
You can also view the photos on You Tube
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