Save Bristol Blue Glass

When we think of Bristol, we think of Brunel, Banksy, Bridges, Balloons, and of course Bristol Blue Glass. 

The iconic blue glass, famous all over the world, has been produced in our city for centuries and the current company has been making glass in the traditional way since 1988. 

Unfortunately, the lease on their premises on Bath Road in Brislington is not being renewed and they need to move out by February 2026. However, a new site is proving difficult to find. 

Managing Director, Suzanne Adlington, said:

"Bristol Blue Glass was founded by my husband, James Adlington, in 1988, with the vision of revitalising glassmaking in Bristol. 

Over the years, we have built an international reputation for our distinctive glassware, all while navigating economic downturns, pandemics, and various challenges. 

Our craft is unique, and we are passionate about preserving a traditional trade that is rapidly disappearing in today’s fast-paced, media-driven world.

We are seeking a permanent home, ideally in central Bristol, to ensure our continued existence. Being highly visible in the community is vital for our survival and for passing this treasured craft on to future generations. 

Your support can help preserve this important part of Bristol’s cultural and artistic heritage."

General Manager and Hot Shop Manager, David Barry, said: 

“I have been working for Bristol Blue Glass Ltd now for 16 years, I feel totally honored and privileged to have spent my adult life so far, working for such a unique and wonderful company.

To be able to come to work everyday and love your job is very rare, and I hate to think that my carrer as a professional glass blower may be forced to come to an end.

I have spent thousands and thousands of hours perfecting these ancient skills, I live and breathe the material of molton glass. Training apprentices is very important to me, as  I value greatly the opportunity to pass on this unique skill, and to keep the tradition of Bristol Glass alive.

To see this collective of talent we share at Bristol Blue Glass broken up absolutely breaks my heart, we are such a close knit team of people, and all so passionate about this craft.

Our product is amazing, our brand is amazing and so are those involved.

When you think of Bristol, you think of the SS Great Britain, The Clifton Suspension Bridge, our historic dockyards and of course Bristol Blue Glass. We have visitors coming from all over the world to see our team of glass blowers making our perfectly imperfect product completely by hand, just like how it would have been done 2000 years ago.

Bristol will not be the same without this historic company at the beating heart of this City.

On behalf of the whole team, we thank you for your time listening and we live in hope that you may be able to help.”

We, the undersigned, are calling on Bristol City Council leaders to redouble their efforts to help save this business. Bristol without Bristol Blue Glass is unthinkable.