Finch Foundry
Step back in time at Finch Foundry, England's last working water-powered forge, with captivating demonstrations and charming gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the hammers in action!
Finch Foundry
Best Time
See the hammers in action!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Finch Foundry, England's last working water-powered forge, with captivating demonstrations and charming gardens.
"A fascinating glimpse into industrial history with engaging guides and beautiful surroundings."
🎯 Arrive on the Hour
Tours and demonstrations happen on the hour, so plan your arrival to catch the full experience. :clock1:
☕ Nearby Refreshments
No cafe on-site, but a great pub and tearoom are just across the road for lunch or coffee. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Working Water-Powered Forge
The Foundry
Witness the impressive Victorian hammers and machinery brought to life by the waterwheel. A truly unique industrial heritage experience.
Knowledgeable Guides
Throughout the Foundry
Engaging National Trust volunteers share the foundry's story, making history come alive for all ages.
Scenic Gardens
Gardens
Enjoy a peaceful stroll or a picnic in the charming gardens surrounding the foundry. Plenty of benches available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive on the Hour
Tours and demonstrations happen on the hour, so plan your arrival to catch the full experience. :clock1:
☕ Nearby Refreshments
No cafe on-site, but a great pub and tearoom are just across the road for lunch or coffee. :coffee:
🌳 Picnic in the Gardens
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the lovely gardens. Benches and picnic tables are available. :sandwich:
📚 Secondhand Bookshop
Browse the charming secondhand bookshop for literary treasures. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive on the Hour
Tours and demonstrations happen on the hour, so plan your arrival to catch the full experience. :clock1:
☕ Nearby Refreshments
No cafe on-site, but a great pub and tearoom are just across the road for lunch or coffee. :coffee:
🌳 Picnic in the Gardens
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the lovely gardens. Benches and picnic tables are available. :sandwich:
📚 Secondhand Bookshop
Browse the charming secondhand bookshop for literary treasures. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Finch Foundry for its fascinating demonstrations of the working water-powered forge and the engaging insights provided by knowledgeable National Trust guides. The charming gardens and convenient location with nearby amenities are also frequently highlighted as positives, making it a great stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.
"A small museum dedicated to the Finch Foundry that operated on the site for almost 100 years. The guide that took us around was very knowledgeable and made the tour interesting, even for our 12yr olds. It was lovely to see the waterwheel running and some of the machinery operating too. The small garden is pretty, and secondhand book shop full of books!
No tea room, but there is a good pub and tearoom across the road"
Jennifer Nicholson
"Beautiful village and the gardens here is stunning. A very peaceful place to walk around and sit with plenty of picnic tables and benches. The watermill is working really interesting. A stunning area for walking."
Libby Pymont
"What a lovely place to visit. Great for kids and adults alike. Fascinating demos of how a foundry worked back in those days and the National Trust has some.great volunteers who make the story unfold with fantastic demonstrations of how to heat and then shape metal."
Ercan Ozcelik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finch Foundry is located in Sticklepath, near Okehampton. If you're driving, there is free parking available on site. For public transport, check local bus routes as services may be limited.
Public transport options to Sticklepath can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance.
There is free parking available for visitors at Finch Foundry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Finch Foundry is open seasonally. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date opening times and dates before your visit.
While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it's a good idea to check the National Trust website, especially during peak season, to secure your entry.
Admission fees apply, and prices can vary. Check the National Trust website for current ticket prices. A National Trust membership may offer free entry.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or through National Trust membership. It's recommended to check their website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can witness live demonstrations of the working water-powered forge, explore the historic foundry buildings, and wander through the beautiful gardens.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. They usually happen on the hour and are led by knowledgeable National Trust volunteers.
Finch Foundry is great for kids! The demonstrations are fascinating, and the guides make the history engaging for younger visitors.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always check for any specific restrictions on the day of your visit.
Facilities include restrooms and a secondhand bookshop. There is no cafe on-site, but there are picnic areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Finch Foundry does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, there is a good pub and tearoom located directly across the road.
The pub and tearoom opposite Finch Foundry are popular choices. You can also enjoy a picnic in the foundry's gardens.
📸 📸 Photography
The working forge with the waterwheel in action is a prime spot. The gardens also offer lovely scenic shots, especially during spring and autumn.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to confirm with the National Trust staff on arrival to ensure you comply with their guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚲 Cycling Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Industry: The Working Forge
These demonstrations are typically conducted on the hour, making it crucial to time your visit accordingly. The National Trust volunteers are the custodians of this heritage, and their passion and knowledge significantly enhance the visitor experience. They don't just operate the machinery; they weave compelling narratives about the foundry's history and the lives of the people who worked there.
Beyond the Forge: Gardens and Community
The surrounding village of Sticklepath also contributes to the charm of a visit. Although Finch Foundry itself doesn't have a cafe, the presence of a good pub and tearoom directly across the road is a significant convenience for visitors.
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