News / glass making
Future secured for Bristol Blue Glass
After months of speculation and bated breath, it is finally good news for Bristol Blue Glass.
The business on Bath Road had been facing its worst fears, with its current residency due to end in February and the lease not renewed.
The artisan glassmaker, which put Bristol on the global craft map with its eponymous blue glass, has been carrying that mantle since 1988.
Bristol blue glass traces its origins back to the 18th century but went through a long dormancy before being revived by James Adlington, who launched the new venture with his wife Suzanne.
The shop on Bath Road boasts a vast collection of Bristol blue glassware
Bristol Blue Glass’ current site opposite Arnos Vale Cemetery has been home to the operation for 12 years.
A shop on High Street in the Old City was also part of the business but closed in January 2025.
The impending closure of the workshop and shop prompted an outpouring of support from the public and local politicians.
A petition launched by local councillor Andrew Varney received more than 7,000 signatures, showing solidarity for one of Bristol’s craft institutions.
Designer and gallery host Gee Hardy said the months-long ordeal had them fearing the worst case scenario
A new site has now been secured in the city centre. The team is tight-lipped about the exact location while formalities are completed, but said it will be “around the Bristol Docks”.
Speaking to Bristol24/7, designer and gallery host Gee Hardy said the months-long ordeal had them fearing the worst case scenario.
Gee, who has a degree in art and design specialising in kiln glass, showed the vast range of work produced beyond just “blue glass”, from sculptures and badges to vases and even glass straws.
She said: “It’s been quite a scary few months. We all thought we were going to be made redundant, but thankfully the council stepped in. Thanks to the petition Bristolians signed, it now looks like we’ve found a place and should be moving within the next month, we hope.”
A familiar sight: goblets seen in Harry Potter movies
The workshop and shop currently has a strong team of 15. Designs are translated into glassware in the kiln by chief glassblower David Barry and the team. They also train apprentices and hope to expand training at the new site to preserve the tradition for years to come.
We also spoke to Janet, who has been honing her skills as a glassmaker at Bristol Blue Glass.
Janet, a budding artisan who has been with the company for three years, welcomed the update.
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“I think we all feel the same – we’re really excited that we’ve found a new place,” Janet said.
“We’re looking forward to this new chapter. It’s been a big ordeal, but we’re all really passionate about glass and about keeping this going, which is wonderful.”
She added: “I feel really privileged to be part of this craft. It’s what I love most, and being able to do it as my job makes it even more special. I love the people I work with, and there’s endless learning involved – you never stop learning.”
The output of Bristol Blue Glass goes beyond the traditional Bristol blue glass
Taking orders from around the world, some of their creations may already be familiar to people: they crafted goblets for Harry Potter and props for Doctor Who.
The move to the new premises is expected to be completed in March.
“We’re all really excited and hoping it will be in March,” said Gee. We’re just looking forward to seeing what the future might hold.”
Bristol Blue Glass on Bath Road had been facing its worst fears, with its current residency due to end in February and the lease not renewed
All photos: Milan Perera
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