Waterford Crystal Factory Tour

Waterford Crystal has been in existance since 1783 and is a prestigeous international luxury brand. Are you curious to see how the amazing Waterford Crystal glassware, trophies, awards etc. are made? See how the molten glass is shaped and blown, then marked and precision-cut by hand and engraved.

Visitors can see the glass being shaped and blown by the craftsmen. The shaping is done using wooden moulds, which are also made in the factory using techniques which have changed little over two hundred years.

Did you know that it takes eight years for a crystal cutter to be trained to master crafterman level? Such is the skill involved in determining the depth of cut, maintaining the cutting line, what pressure to use etc. The slightest mistake could result in the entire piece being scrapped, and melted down again.

Many pieces are unique, one-of-a-kind works. These are specially commissioned for award presentations, for example, and are engraved with designs, patterns and text. Some sporting trophies can take several days to be engraved, the work is so fine and precise.

The final result is a piece of crystal with distinctive clear and sparking cuts which are a unique hallmark of Waterford Crystal.

The Waterford Crystal Factory Tour is located on The Mall, Waterford City. Visitors can also shop in the retail store which has the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world. It is a great place to purchase gifts for friends, family, important customers, or special employees. Click the map pin icon to view the location on a map.

The ticket price shown is an online ticket price, which is cheaper than the door price.

For more information including opening times, click the "more info" button below.