Walsall Leather Museum

Walsall Leather Museum stands in a converted Victorian factory in the West Midlands town of Walsall. The building itself dates from the 19th century, when Walsall’s leather trade began to grow. The museum opened in 1988 after the council restored the site. It focuses on the town’s long history of leatherwork, from small beginnings to a global centre for saddles. At the start of the 20th century about 10,000 people worked in Walsall’s leather trade. Today the town still has over forty saddle and bridle makers, some holding Royal Warrants. Visitors can see examples of Walsall-made gloves, bags, shoes and fashion accessories. A modern design section displays work by today’s leather designers. Skilled craftspeople demonstrate traditional techniques in the museum’s workshops. The museum also keeps a specialist research library on leather craft. Seasonal events include workshops for children and adults, as well as family activities. The displays show how Walsall’s leather industry shaped the town. Visitors leave with a clear picture of the craft’s past and present.