Dartington Crystal Glass

An absolute must to see the amazing crystal products and their production. Be prepared to “walk away” with one, as we have just done!

· via Google

The Crystal sparkles like diamonds in the sun skilfully manipulated into shapes using simple time honoured techniques by skilled craftsmen. Sadly the overall impression is the sparkle has long left the premises and buildings. Yes, it’s a factory and as such a working environment, and like many artisan businesses living on a knife edge to survive. But what does it take to smarten a place up and make it inviting ? Areas of overgrown weeds and plants, faded, rusted and jaded paintwork everywhere. Missing signage from the wall facing entrance road. Vastly outdated old paper signage from god knows when forbidding access to areas or directing to now unused areas. Sections abandoned and unused with a “library” exhibit that’s seen better days. A long walk from the entrance adjacent to the disabled parking was a jaunt, with a white line to follow which splits off across a car park with a path to a common point but no indication of which to follow. The viewing area for observing the work in action seemed ad-hoc, as were the stairs to a balcony to nowhere with an exit restriction to another area closed off. £5 per head with no one to guide nor explain anything and left to turn own devices was a bit of a let down and could have been much more engaging. The sad demise of Denbigh recently had remnants of their wares scattered about an area that could clearly be utilised by local artisans or groups. Looking dejected and lost. One saving grace was the cafeteria. Appears recently touched up, and clean. Staffed by very enthusiastic ladies offering prompt engaging service for reasonably priced fayre of a limited offering. Needs someone with vision to resurrect it all and make it a go-to exhibit.

· via Google

Great experience, shop and cafe Get there Monday through Friday before noon to receive buy one get one free entry to the tour and kids go free! Very interesting to see master blowers working their craft. The shop is huge and had bargains galore in it. Have a look at the "mega discounts" hidden in the back. Nice cafe with a good range of food. A definite must in the area.

· via Google

Great place! Currently renovating a few areas, which means the tours are self guided and free of charge. The painting studio is brand new and very nice. Last time for starting painting in 3pm however you can stay until 4 - 4:30 to finish and dry your glass painting. Of all the available vessels to paint there is lanterns (picture), short glass, tall glass and wine/gin glass. Each glass is between 6.50£ and 8.50£. Great fun! The staff is extremely lovely!

· via Google