Bilston

Town in West Midlands, England, 6 km/4 mi southeast of Wolverhampton; population (2001) 24,300. At one time Bilston was one of the UK's most important centres for iron smelting, and a focal point of industrial expansion; it is now engaged in a variety of industrial activities ranging from atomic power station development to sheet metal work.

There has been a settlement on this site for at least the last 1,000 years. Between 1933 and 1966 Bilston was an independent town with its own town council and mayor, but has now been absorbed into the enlarged borough of Wolverhampton.

Bilston Craft Gallery and Museum houses a permanent display of 18th century enamels and an exhibition that traces the town's industrial past. The Wellington Road campus for Wolverhampton College (2001) is sited here. Bilston is also the birthplace of the poet Henry Newbolt.