House of Marbles Bovey Tracey

UK Museums: House of Marbles, Bovey Tracey, Devon

Mad For Marbles - House of Marbles, Bovey Tracey

Jake Davies

Thousands of glass marbles, one of the oldest toys in the world, on display at the unique House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey, Devon. — Thousands of glass marbles, one of the oldest toys in the world, on display at the unique House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey, Devon

The House of Marbles is a popular tourist attraction located in Bovey Tracey, Devon. It is a unique family-run business that encompasses a wide range of activities and exhibits related to marbles and traditional toys.

House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey includes shops, museums, and restaurants. — House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey includes shops, museums, and restaurants

History

The House of Marbles was established in 1973 and has since become one of the largest suppliers of marbles and related toys in the world. The site itself is housed in an old pottery factory, which adds to its charm and character. Visitors of all ages can explore the various sections of the House of Marbles and engage in different interactive experiences.

Marbles are just one of the many toys and games manufactured and sold by House of Marbles including board games, puzzles, classic games and toys, and a wide range of decorative home items. — Marbles are just one of the many toys and games manufactured and sold by House of Marbles including board games, puzzles, classic games and toys, and a wide range of decorative home items

Exhibits

One of the main highlights of the House of Marbles is its extensive marble museum, which showcases a vast collection of marbles from different periods and regions. Visitors can learn about the history of marbles, their production processes, and the various games that can be played with them. The museum offers an educational and nostalgic experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and diversity of marbles.

Aside from the museum, the House of Marbles features a variety of other attractions. The Glassworks is a working glass factory where you can watch skilled craftsmen create intricate glass pieces, including marbles, using traditional techniques. There is also a Pottery Workshop where visitors can try their hand at pottery making.

The Pottery Museum at House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey includes exhibitions of the many kinds of pottery produced in the area. — The Pottery Museum at House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey includes exhibitions of the many kinds of pottery produced in the area

Marble Runs

For those looking for a bit of outdoor fun, the House of Marbles offers a magnificent Marble Runs and Teign Valley Glass Trail. The Marble Runs exhibit is an outdoor area with large, intricate marble tracks where visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing movements of marbles as they navigate the twists and turns of the tracks. The Teign Valley Glass Trail is a scenic walk that leads visitors through beautiful woodlands, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

Additionally, the House of Marbles has a gift shop filled with an array of toys, games, and marbles, allowing visitors to take a piece of the experience home with them. There is also a café on-site that serves delicious homemade food and refreshments.

Overall, the House of Marbles in Devon offers an engaging and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in marbles, traditional toys, glassmaking, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings, the House of Marbles provides a delightful day out for the whole family.

Snooki, contender for the biggest marble run in the world, is one of 4 marble runs at House of Marbles designed by Alex Schmid. — Snooki, contender for the biggest marble run in the world, is one of 4 marble runs at House of Marbles designed by Alex Schmid

Access - Getting to the House of Marbles

The Old Pottery, Pottery Road
Bovey Tracey
Devon
TQ13 9DS
Tel: 01626 835 285
www: houseofmarbles.com

Bovey Tracey is easily accessible by car. If you are coming from Exeter, you can take the A38 and then follow the signs for Bovey Tracey. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

The nearest train station to Bovey Tracey is Newton Abbot, which is approximately 5 miles away. From Newton Abbot, you can take a taxi or catch a local bus to Bovey Tracey. The journey by taxi takes around 15 minutes, while the bus journey may take slightly longer.

Bovey Tracey is well-connected by bus services from various nearby towns. The local bus services in the area are operated by Stagecoach South West and other regional bus companies. From Newton Abbot Bus Station or Exeter Bus Station catch bus number 39, and get off on Pottery Road, Bovey Tracey.