Avon Rubber Tour | Saturday 25 October

£10.00

Start Time: 11:00

Finish Time: 12:30

Join retired rubber engineer Andrew Shipley for a fascinating walking tour tracing the rise of the Avon Rubber Company from its origins at The Hall to the former factory site in Bradford on Avon.

Discover how Stephen Moulton brought vulcanised rubber to Britain, explore key locations tied to the industry’s past, and hear first-hand stories, supported by rare historical photographs. A unique journey through innovation, legacy, and local heritage.

The tour begins outside The Hall. Please enter through the Eagle Gate on Holt Road, walk along the gravel path to the house, and wait at the designated meeting point just outside.

What you’ll experience:

  • A guided walk through 12 key historical stops across ½ mile, including Lamb Yard, Kingston Road, Bridge Yard, Norden and The Paddock.

  • A rare opportunity to trace the footsteps of factory workers and engineers on the original Avon Rubber site.

  • Engaging storytelling from Andrew Shipley, offering first-hand insights and captivating anecdotes from inside the rubber industry.

  • A deep dive into how Bradford on Avon became a centre of innovation from 1848, when Moulton transformed a woollen mill into a hub of industrial progress.

  • View historic photographs from the 1990s that bring the demolished site to life, illustrating the processes of rubber mixing, moulding, and more.

Whether you’re a local resident, a lover of industrial heritage, or just curious about how a sleepy Wiltshire town helped shape a global industry, this tour is a must.

Start Time: 11:00

Finish Time: 12:30

Join retired rubber engineer Andrew Shipley for a fascinating walking tour tracing the rise of the Avon Rubber Company from its origins at The Hall to the former factory site in Bradford on Avon.

Discover how Stephen Moulton brought vulcanised rubber to Britain, explore key locations tied to the industry’s past, and hear first-hand stories, supported by rare historical photographs. A unique journey through innovation, legacy, and local heritage.

The tour begins outside The Hall. Please enter through the Eagle Gate on Holt Road, walk along the gravel path to the house, and wait at the designated meeting point just outside.

What you’ll experience:

  • A guided walk through 12 key historical stops across ½ mile, including Lamb Yard, Kingston Road, Bridge Yard, Norden and The Paddock.

  • A rare opportunity to trace the footsteps of factory workers and engineers on the original Avon Rubber site.

  • Engaging storytelling from Andrew Shipley, offering first-hand insights and captivating anecdotes from inside the rubber industry.

  • A deep dive into how Bradford on Avon became a centre of innovation from 1848, when Moulton transformed a woollen mill into a hub of industrial progress.

  • View historic photographs from the 1990s that bring the demolished site to life, illustrating the processes of rubber mixing, moulding, and more.

Whether you’re a local resident, a lover of industrial heritage, or just curious about how a sleepy Wiltshire town helped shape a global industry, this tour is a must.

Q: Is parking space available?

No. Visitors can use the local car parking facilities within the town—5 minutes' walking distance from The Hall. Bradford on Avon train station is a 7-minute walk from The Hall.

Q: Where does the tour start?

The tour begins outside The Hall. Please enter through the Eagle Gate on Holt Road, walk along the gravel path to the house, and wait at the designated meeting point just outside.

Q: How long is the tour?

The tour covers ½ mile and includes 12 stops. It typically lasts around 1 hour.

Q: What should I wear or bring?

Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather.

Q: Is the tour suitable for all ages?

Yes! The tour is suitable for adults and older children with an interest in local history or industrial heritage. Some uneven ground may make it less suitable for those with limited mobility.

Q: Will I see the original Avon Rubber factory?

The original Avon Rubber factory has since been reimagined into flats and shops, but the tour takes you through the former factory site, with stories, first-hand accounts, and historical photographs helping you imagine the bustling industry that once stood there.

Q: Can I bring my dog?

Yes, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to join the tour! Please make sure to clean up after your pet and be mindful of other guests.

Q: Does the tour include access to The Hall?

No, this walking tour does not include entry into The Hall itself. However, if you're interested in exploring the historic interior of our Jacobean mansion, separate guided tours of The Hall are available. We encourage you to book a guided tour of The Hall for a deeper insight into its architecture, history, and former residents. - Tours of The Hall

Q: I can not make the tour, can I get a refund?

No refunds or amendments are available once you have completed a purchase. If your tour has been cancelled, we will be in touch to discuss your options for a refund or exchange.