CELTIC CRYSTAL VISITOR CENTRE

If you are looking for a unique and authentic craft experience in Galway, you should visit the Celtic Crystal Visitor Centre in Moycullen. Here you can learn about the history and culture of Irish crystal, watch the master craftsmen create stunning Celtic designs on crystal glassware and jewellery, and shop for exclusive and exquisite pieces that reflect the beauty and heritage of Ireland.

The Celtic Crystal Visitor Centre offers three different experiences to suit your preferences and budget. You can choose from a short tour and glass cutting demonstration, a master cutter experience, or an ultimate master cutter experience. Each experience will give you a chance to meet the family behind the business, explore the crystal gallery, and witness the amazing skill and artistry of the master cutters.

The short tour and glass cutting demonstration is free of charge and takes about 15 minutes. You will get an informative talk on the creation and design of Celtic Crystal, followed by a live demonstration of how the master cutters use traditional stone cutting wheels to engrave Celtic motifs such as the Claddagh, Shamrock, and Celtic Knotwork on crystal glassware. You can ask questions, take photos, and admire the finished products.

The master cutter experience costs €125 and takes about 35 minutes. It is suitable for small groups of 2-6 people. You will get a private tour of the crystal gallery, where you can see one-of-a-kind pieces of crystal that showcase the history and techniques of Celtic Crystal. You will then be introduced to one of the master cutters, who will cut a design on a bowl especially for your group. You can choose between a Shamrock or Claddagh Ring design with Celtic Knotwork banding and a signature Irish Rose design on the base. The bowl will be signed by the master cutter and posted to you within 4-6 weeks.

The ultimate master cutter experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create your own unique piece of Connemara Celtic Crystal. It costs €500 and takes about 2-2.5 hours. It is a VIP craft experience that will allow you to work closely with one of the master cutters to design and cut your own piece of crystal. You will get a personal welcome and guidance from a family member, a tour of the crystal gallery, and a consultation with the master cutter to discuss your ideas and preferences. You will then watch as he cuts your design on a piece of crystal that you have chosen from a selection of shapes and colours. You will also get to try your hand at cutting some simple patterns on a practice piece of crystal. Your finished piece will be signed by the master cutter and posted to you within 4-6 weeks.

The Celtic Crystal Visitor Centre is open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm, and on Sunday by appointment only. There is free off-street parking for cars and coaches. It also has disabled toilets and wheelchair access. You can book your experience online via their website or by phone or email. You can also visit their online shop to browse their range of crystal glassware and jewellery.

The Celtic Crystal Visitor Centre is a family-owned and operated business that has been producing high-quality Irish crystal since 1978. It is one of the few remaining crystal factories in Ireland today and the only one that specialises in traditional Irish design on crystal. It is a must-see attraction for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship, culture, and creativity.