Experience the Magic of Dartington Crystal

Distance from Smytham: 3.1 miles

Travel time: 8 minuts by car / 15 minutes by public transport and walking. 

Perfect for: Families, Couples and Individuals.

Best weather: Wet

Just a brief drive from Smytham Holiday Park, the Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre and factory experience is one of Devon’s most fascinating attractions, perfect for families, couples, and anyone interested in craftsmanship. Combining striking glass art, interactive demonstrations, and exciting children’s activities, the centre offers a unique glimpse into the world of fine crystal, making it a unforgettable destination for a day trip in Devon.

From the instant you arrive, the centre captures your imagination. Visitors can watch skilled artisans at work in the factory, where molten glass is expertly shaped, blown, and cut into beautiful pieces. The live demonstrations provide understanding into the traditional and modern techniques that make Dartington Crystal famous worldwide, from glittering wine glasses to complex ornamental pieces. For those curious about the craft, knowledgeable staff are on hand to explain the processes, answer questions, and share captivating stories about the history of the company and the art of glassmaking.

The centre also boasts a well-stocked shop, where you can peruse a wide selection of high-quality crystal products, perfect for gifts, keepsakes, or a special indulgence for yourself.

Families will find plenty to enjoy at Dartington Crystal. In addition to watching the live demonstrations, children can take part in glass painting sessions, create hand casts of their own hands, and explore The Teddy Factory, where they can make and personalise a cuddly toy to take home. These hands-on activities make the centre a truly engaging destination for family days out in Devon, ensuring young visitors are entertained while learning about creativity and craftsmanship.

The centre also boasts the newly refurbished Pavilion Café, a bright and welcoming space perfect for a break during your visit. The café serves a range of freshly prepared meals, sandwiches, and delicious homemade cakes, as well as locally sourced hot and cold drinks. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the Pavilion Café offers a relaxed spot to enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding Devon countryside, making it an ideal complement to your visit.

Throughout the year, Dartington Crystal hosts special events and seasonal activities, including festive workshops, demonstrations for school holidays, and limited-time displays of unique crystal collections. Whether you visit in summer or during the Christmas season, there’s always something new to see and experience.

Situated in a beautiful Devonshire setting, the Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre is easy to reach from Smytham Holiday Park and makes for a perfect family day out in North Devon. The combination of artistry, history, interactive experiences, children’s activities, and the refreshed Pavilion Café ensures that every visitor leaves with a deeper appreciation for the skill and creativity behind this world-famous craft.

A visit to Dartington Crystal is more than just a trip to a factory — it’s a journey into the art of glassmaking, an chance to see unbelievable artistry up close, and a chance to take home a piece of Devon’s artistic legacy. Whether you’re discovering local attractions or planning a full day out, Dartington Crystal is one of the most worthwhile places to visit near Smytham Holiday Park.

Accessibility:

Wheel chairs and pushchairs can access the visitors centre and the Pavilion cafe but cannot enter the Factory Tour as it includes walking along overhead viewing platforms which are only accessible by stairs. Walking aids also cannot be usedon these walkways.