This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my terms & conditions for more info.
Since moving down to Devon we have discovered some great places to go for a day out. One place that is on my favourites list is the House of Marbles in Bovey Tracey. It’s a truly quirky place, there’s lots to see and do and the best part is it’s free to get in.
We recently went along to have some lunch and I thought I would share our experience with you.
House of Marbles
‘A great family day out come rain or shine. House of Marbles is a working glass and games factory set in a historic pottery.’
What’s there?
- Mechanical marble runs
- Outdoor games garden complete with play park
- Fairground mirrors
- Animated animals
- Secret door in the garden
- Penny press
- Historic trail
- Bovey pottery
- Teign Valley glass factory
- Old Pottery Restaurant
- Shop
- Free parking
- Free entrance
The Mechanical Marble Runs
The mechanical marble runs are my sons favourite thing to see at the House of Marbles, he’d quite happily sit there for hours watching them go round. Check out my video at the bottom of this post to see them in action.
The most impressive run that they have is at the top of the stairs in the shop area. You start it by pressing a button on the banister at the top. I always think it looks like something straight out of a Tim Burton movie. Love his films!
Shopping
The shop stocks a fantastic range of unusual gifts, classic toys and of course marbles. As an added bonus if you aren’t able to physically make it to the shop they have an online store which is well worth checking out.
The Old Pottery Restaurant
The restaurant has two area to it, one inside the main building and then also the conservatory on the side. On this occasion we sat in the conservatory. When the weather is nice you also have the opportunity to sit outside in the courtyard area right between the large kilns.
We have never had a bad meal here and the staff are always very friendly. The food is all freshly prepared and they try and source as much of their ingredients as possible from local companies. They have a separate children’s menu and provide colouring to keep them entertained.
I opted for the The Old Pottery Steak Burger – ‘Homemade grilled steak burger in a toasted sourdough bun with rocket, red onion chutney and a choice of Cheddar or Stilton, served with chips, our own onion rings and coleslaw.’ It was very tasty!
The kiddies both had the Macaroni Cheese, they are currently obsessed with macaroni cheese and have it everywhere we go.
Games Garden
In the games garden they have a play park, giant chess, giant jenga and outdoor marble runs. They also have some bistro tables around the side so you can relax with a cup of tea while the kiddies have a play.
Teign Valley Glass
If you are anything like me and love coloured glass then you have to take a look in the Teign Valley Glass factory. There is a viewing gallery above so you can see how the glass is made. The glass makers are very skilled and it’s fascinating to watch. Just watch little fingers in here as there’s a lot that could get broken.
In Summary
If you are looking for somewhere child friendly that is a bit different and quirky to visit in Devon, either for a day out, shopping or some lunch then we’d definitely recommend the House of Marbles.
Thanks for sharing Gina, we love your blog and are great you and your family had a lovely time on your visit here. Come back again and visit any time! From all at House of Marbles
My pleasure. We had a lovely time 🙂
Ah this looks lovely. Mine would love it- all those marbles!!! Its always nice to find somewhere new for a good day out, although this is a LONG way for us to go! xx
We loved our visit there, and were the only people playing outside so N loved it. Unfortunately the glass bit wasn’t open, but we had a giant scone in the cafe. You forgot to mention that it’s free! I was amazed because it’s great to visit.
Oh now this looks like an amazing place to go – I know my lot would love it! Shame we aren’t closer 🙁 Thanks for linking up with #TriedTested
Pingback: 10 Child Friendly Places to Visit in South Devon - Gypsy Soul