FAQ’s

• What are the opening hours for the Factory Tour and the Visitor Centre?

  Retail Store:

  January & February	9.00 am - 5.00 pm	Mon - Sun
  March to October	8.30 am - 6.00 pm	Mon  - Sun
  November & December	9.00 am – 5.00pm	Mon  - Sun

  
  

  Factory Tour:

  January & February	9.00 am - 3.15 pm*	Mon - Fri
  March to October	8.30 am – 4.15 pm*	Mon  - Sun
  November & December	9.00 am – 3.15 pm*	Mon - Fri

  * Last tour commences at 3.15pm & 4.15pm sharp as above

  
  

• How long does the Factory Tour take?

  The Factory Tours takes approximately one hour.

• What are the admission rates for the Visitor Centre?

  Admission prices 2008

  Adult	€10.00
  OAP	€7.50
  Student	€7.00
  Child under 12 yrs	Free
  Family ticket	€27.50 ( 2 adults and 3 children over 12 yrs)
  Group rate	€6.00 p.p. ( min group of 8 pax)

• Are reservations necessary for the Factory Tour?

  No reservations are necessary for individuals or small groups. We do however require reservations coach and large groups.

• What do you see on the Factory Tour?

  The Factory Tour shows the process of crystal manufacturing close up, almost through the eyes of the artisans. The tour begins with an audiovisual presentation - after that, you go through to the five main stages of our process: Blowing, Cutting, Quality Inspection, Sculpting, Engraving.

• Is the Visitor Centre & Factory Tour wheelchair accessible?

  Yes, all areas of the Visitor Centre & Factory Tour are wheelchair accessible.

• Do you permit the use of photography and video cameras on the tour?

  Yes, we know our visitors love to bring home a memento of their visit so we allow the use of photography and cameras in all areas except our Engraving Department.

• Can I make a price saving, by purchasing direct from the Retail Store?

  The suggested retail price for Waterford Crystal in our Retail Store and in other retail outlets in the Republic of Ireland is identical. Please remember, however, that there may be an opportunity for tax / VAT savings so, please enquire with our staff when you arrive

• If, I purchase at the Visitor Centre can I have my purchases shipped home?

  Yes, we can ship your products home. There is a small charge to cover the cost of freight and insurance, which will be advised to you by our Sales Assistants.

• How long does it take to ship to USA?

  Normally, 6 - 8 weeks.

• Do you sell exclusive pieces at the Visitor Centre?

  Yes, we have a range of product exclusive to the Visitor Centre.

• Does Waterford ever discontinue any of its stemware patterns?

  Waterford never discontinues a pattern from the classic stemware range. However, we may retire it, which means it remains available to order as special order stemware. Delivery could take up to six months.

• Do you have a Restaurant at the Visitor Centre?

  Yes, "Gatchells" Restaurant at the Visitor Centre, offers a wide array of traditional home cooked cuisine using locally sourced produce. The restaurant is open daily serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

• Can Waterford Crystal be cleaned in a dishwasher?

  We do not recommend cleaning Waterford crystal in a dishwasher since the heat and abrasive cleaners may mark the surface of the crystal. Read additional care information in the Usage and Care insert, included with the package of each piece

• What does the Seahorse symbol signify?

  The Seahorse symbol is an interpretation of the heraldic dolphin, which features on the Waterford City Coat of Arms.