The UK’s only museum devoted to stained glass says it is looking for a new home because its upper-level gallery in Ely Cathedral offers no lift access and little room to expand, according to newly published trustee papers
The Stained Glass Museum – whose patron is King Charles – confirms it is actively exploring a move away from its long-standing home in Ely Cathedral.
Established in 1972 and open to the public in the Cathedral since 1979, the museum has become a national centre for the appreciation of stained glass, housing an internationally significant collection. But despite recent growth in outreach and collections, its current location in the south triforium of the Grade-I listed Cathedral has become increasingly restrictive.
The Cathedral, Ely. Friday 12 October 2018. Picture by Terry Harris.
In its 2024 Trustees’ Report, the Museum’s leadership cited ongoing limitations in physical access and a lack of space to expand as core reasons behind the move being considered. The upper-level gallery space—beautiful though it is—is not easily accessible to all, particularly those with limited mobility.
“The Board remain committed to exploring options for relocating the museum, due to the restrictive physical access to this upper-level Grade-I listed space and the fact there is no room for expansion in our current premises,” says the annual report of trustees.
“During the year, several conversations were held with potential partners across the UK.
“Closer to our current home in Ely, attempts to negotiate leasing a vacant commercial premises near the Cathedral to relocate our learning and workshops were unsuccessful, and the landlord opted for a commercial tenant instead. As a small charity in a city where independent businesses are thriving, there is a high demand for vacant commercial property.”
The Cathedral, Ely Friday 12 October 2018. Picture by Terry Harris.
The Museum recently renewed its Licence to Occupy with the Dean and Chapter in May 2024, ensuring continued short-term stability. However, the Board of Trustees remains committed to finding a longer-term solution that better serves both the public and the collection.
Rooted in History, Ready for the Future
The Museum’s commitment to its mission—educating the public about the artistic and cultural significance of stained glass—remains central to any potential move.
“We are a national institution with a national remit,” said Dr Jeffrey West, Chair of Trustees. “Our vision is not simply to survive, but to thrive—and to bring the beauty and history of stained glass to wider and more diverse audiences.”
In the past year, the Museum saw increased engagement through digital initiatives and outreach programmes, including collaborations with schools, local festivals, and international exhibitions. Notably, its involvement in the acclaimed Glass Heart exhibition in London brought some of its collection before an audience of over 45,000.
The Museum has also recently expanded its collection with several significant acquisitions, from post-war German panels to contemporary works by artists like Pinkie Maclure, supported by Art Fund and the Arts Council. But space constraints in the current venue mean that much of this growing collection remains in storage or difficult to display.
What Comes Next?
While no immediate move is expected, the Museum’s leadership emphasises that serious strategic planning is underway. Any relocation would require significant funding, community consultation, and careful consideration to ensure the Museum’s historic identity is preserved even as it enters a new chapter.
For now, the Museum remains open in Ely Cathedral, welcoming over 21,000 visitors last year. But as behind-the-scenes work continues, a bold new vision may soon reshape the future of this much-loved cultural institution.
For further information about the Museum and its current exhibitions, visit
https://stainedglassmuseum.com/
Despite the challenges, the Museum has had a standout year. It welcomed over 21,000 visitors in 2023–24 and continued to build its reputation through major exhibitions, research, and public programming.
Highlights included:
- A hugely successful collaboration with Two Temple Place on The Glass Heart exhibition in London
- A significant increase in school visits and SEN engagement
- The acquisition of rare post-war German stained glass panels
- Enhanced digital access through the Bloomberg Connects app
- Talks, workshops, and community events that brought stained glass to life for audiences of all ages
It’s clear the Museum isn’t standing still—it’s growing. And that growth is fuelling a need for change.
What do you think? Should The Stained Glass Museum move?
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