Description
House of Marbles is a quirky and captivating family destination located in the historic Old Pottery buildings of Bovey Tracey, Devon. Set on a site that has produced pottery since the 1700s, this unique attraction is a working glassworks, glass museum, and toy shop all rolled into one. It is widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Devon, offering a blend of industrial heritage and mesmerizing entertainment that keeps visitors coming back.
A visit to the House of Marbles is exceptionally budget-friendly, as admission and parking are free for all visitors. This makes it an ideal family day out or a perfect stop for an educational day out where children can learn about the history of glassmaking and pottery without the stress of entry fees. The site is open year-round, typically from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (10:00 am on Sundays), providing a flexible option for a few hours of exploration.
The highlight for many families is the collection of massive, interactive marble runs, including 'Snooki', a spectacular wall-sized snooker ball run that is hypnotic to watch. Whether you are watching skilled artisans create hand-blown glass in the Teign Valley Glass Studio or solving the puzzles in the outdoor Games Garden, House of Marbles offers a distinctive cultural day out. It is a rare place where nostalgia for traditional toys meets the fascinating reality of modern craftsmanship.
Features
- Free
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes House of Marbles unique?
The House of Marbles is unlike any other museum or shop in the UK, combining a sense of wonder with a deep respect for local history.
- World-Class Marble Runs: The site features several unique, enormous marble runs designed by Alex Schmid, including the "Curriculum Vitae" and the snooker-ball-based "Snooki".
- Live Glassmaking: Visitors can watch glassmakers in the Teign Valley Glass Studio as they transform molten glass into intricate birds, vases, and marbles right before your eyes.
- The Historic Kilns: Three of the site's original pottery kilns are Grade II listed and form a dramatic backdrop to the courtyard gardens.
Top 5 Highlights
- The Marble Runs: Be mesmerized by the intricate loops, trebuchets, and staircases that the marbles navigate.
- Teign Valley Glass Studio: Stand on the viewing gallery to see the fire and skill of the glassblowers.
- The Marble Museum: Discover the history of these tiny glass spheres, from ancient clay versions to rare collector's pieces.
- Games Garden: Play giant versions of chess and Jericho, or see the "giant floating marble" in the courtyard.
- The Brass Rubbing Trail: An interactive hunt around the site that costs just £1, including a booklet and crayons to take home.
The House of Marbles is divided into several engaging zones:
- The Museums: Four separate museums covering the history of glass, marbles, board games, and the Bovey Potteries.
- The Emporium: A vast shop selling traditional toys, marbles, home décor, and unique Teign Valley glass art.
- The Glassworks: The heart of the site where you can watch live production.
- The Old Pottery Restaurant: A family-friendly eatery set within the historic kilns.
- Courtyard & Gardens: Features the outdoor play area, giant games, and historic structures.
Beyond the Main Attraction: The town of Bovey Tracey is a gateway to Dartmoor National Park, making House of Marbles a great starting point for an outdoor day out in the Devon countryside.
15.73 miles
