Adrian Sankey Glassworks - a must visit ! (Attractions in Ambleside)

Member Name: mfowlis

Product:	Attractions in Ambleside
Date:	03/10/01 (533 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Fascinating, Good for gifts, See it in action

Disadvantages: Not very intersting for the kids, Can get a bit warm, You'll want to buy something!

Whilst many people passing through Ambleside on the road north (or south) have no doubt seen the famous "bridge house" over the large stream, I wonder how many have taken the time to look behind it as they pass by.

Behind the main tourist icon is an old watermill (now converted to a very pleasant coffee shop cum restaurant) and beside that the Adrian Sankey glassworks and showroom.

Anyone who has seen glassblowing on the TV has no doubt been fascinated by the skill and technique of glassblowers as they convert a lump of molten glass into all forms of elaborate and beautiful glassware.

However rather than just being a shop for the glassware products, the showroom also includes the glass blowing works where you can see the items on sale being made.

With the furnaces going it can get a little warm in the showroom (especially upstairs), but it is worth it for the unique and interesting glassware that makes great souveniers, presents or ornaments.

Worth a visit just to watch the glass-blowing (we now make a point to visit every time we are in the lakes and watch, plus stock up on presents for Chrsitmas) they ask for a entrance charge (50p I recall) if you are coming to watch but not buy anything, but the items on sale are so attractive I defy you to not want to buy something!

Whilst there is no "have a go" option (hence Kids may get a little bored quite quickly and this is not always good in a showroom of glassware) for adults this is a fascinating visit if you are at all interested in glassblowing.

Hopefully one day they may start offering short courses for visitors to have a go !

Nearest car park is the main car park to the North of Ambleside (near the fire station).

Highly recommended.

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