Forge Mill Needle Museum

There is more to a needle museum than meets the eyeDid you know that in Victorian times Redditch was producing 90% of all the needles in the world? Our museum tells the fascinating story of how a needle was made and the processes involved. Discover the most dangerous job in the needle industry and find out all about the harsh working conditions.A highlight of your visit is entering the only remaining water powered scouring mill left in the world. This is largely unchanged and gives a real opportunity to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of a working mill. Where possible the waterwheel and machinery operates on Tuesday and weekend afternoons.The museum also houses a whole floor of needle and fishing tackle treasures where you can explore the largest public collection of needles on display in the country. These include a fantastic range of Victorian sewing needles as well as needles that have been used for everything from sewing panels on space shuttles to micro surgery.Forge Mill also hosts a varied temporary exhibition programme; often with a link to textiles, quilts and embroidery. Details of the annual programme can be found on the website.On site is also the Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre which tells the story of the medieval Cistercian abbey of Bordesley. This building has limited opening hours for 2022 so please check website for details.A short walk away, across the meadows lie the ruins of the abbey which can be explored at any time.Light refreshments can be purchased from the Mill View Coffee Bar which has a delicious range of homemade cake, quality coffee and freshly made toasted sandwiches.Picnics can be enjoyed within the natural setting of the grounds which includes a children's play area with a large sandpit.