Broseley Pipeworks

The Broseley Pipeworks is a museum in Broseley, a market town in the Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire. The gorge is a World Heritage Site and is known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Clay tobacco pipes have been made in Broseley since at least 1590. The Pipeworks was once run by the Southorn family, who exported pipes worldwide. The factory closed in the 1950s and some areas remain as they were on the last day of operation. The museum preserves the history of clay tobacco pipe making. Visitors can see displays of clay pipes, including Churchwarden and Dutch Long Straw styles. A clay pipe maker sometimes demonstrates hand-making pipes. There are also exhibits of historic prints about tobacco production and smoking. Other items related to tobacco are on display as well. The Pipeworks is a Grade II listed building. The site offers a look at the industrial past of the area. Visitors can explore the preserved factory spaces. The displays provide insight into the craft of pipe making. The museum is part of the Ironbridge Gorge Museums group.