The Ultimate Guide: The Royal Delft Experience

Are you a lover of fine earthenware? Then you must visit the Royal Delft, the last remaining original Delft Blue factory from the 17th century. It’s located in the city of Royal Delft, Netherlands. Here, you will experience the authentic production process in the factory, admire the extraordinary building and enjoy tea in its beautiful garden. Plus, you can watch master painters and craftsmen at work and opt for one of the painting workshops. Here’s everything you need to know before planning your visit to the Royal Delft Experience.

Experience

The Royal Delft Experience takes you on an inspirational journey through the world of centuries-old earthenware. The craftsmen have been creating the iconic Delft Blue for almost 400 years, and they are excited to share their art. During the tour, you will have a chance to witness not only the iconic Delft Blue being made but also antique and modern pieces.

Highlights

The Royal Delft Experience consists of various highlights that will leave you in awe. Here are some of the most outstanding ones.

Admire the Extraordinary Building and Beautiful Garden

The Royal Delft has an outstanding building that dates back to 1653. It’s an excellent example of Dutch Baroque architecture, featuring a gable adorned with a peacock, cherubs, fruits, garlands and vases, all in Delft Blue. Additionally, the garden of the Royal Delft is a sight to behold. You can relax in the garden with a cup of tea and admire the picturesque view.

Watch Master Painters and Craftsmen at Work

One of the most intriguing things about the Royal Delft Experience is watching the master painters and craftsmen at work. You will see how they use their skills to create the iconic Delft Blueware. You can also witness how everything is handmade, from filling the molds to final touches, making the whole process even more special.

Experience the Authentic Production Process in the Factory

During the tour, you will see how the original earthenware is still being crafted following the traditional process, which was established in the 17th century. You will learn step by step how the clay is being poured into handmade molds and then how everything is painted, glazed and baked. The Royal Delft Experience guarantees a unique and genuine experience.

Opt for One of the Painting Workshops

If you want to get hands-on, you can opt for one of the painting workshops. Here you will get a chance to paint your own Delft Blue tile under the guidance of professional painters. This workshop is perfect for families with children who want to experience something authentic during their trip to Royal Delft.

Full Description

The Royal Delft has a lot to offer, and you can choose between three types of tours. The first one is the ‘Royal Delft Experience,’ which is a self-guided tour. The second one is the ‘Delft Blue Painting Workshop,’ where an expert in hand-painted Delft Blue will teach you how to paint. The third one is the ‘Royal Delft High Tea Workshop,’ where you can enjoy an authentic High Tea, served on Delft Blue tableware, and then create your own tile. If you opt for the Royal Delft Experience, you’ll have the chance to witness the entire production process of Delft Blue ware. Moreover, you will receive a detailed audio guide, which will explain everything in detail. The audio guide is available in Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Chinese. After visiting the museum and witnessing the complete process, you can also see the collection of antique and modern Delft Blue earthenware. The collection consists of vases, plates, cups, jars, bowls, and much more. Moreover, there is a shop where you can buy souvenirs and handmade Delft Blue earthenware. If you choose the Delft Blue Painting Workshop, you can paint your own Delft Blue tile. First, you will receive a brief explanation of the painting process, then you will choose the design you want to paint. After choosing the design, you will paint it under the guidance of a professional painter. Finally, your painted tile will be baked and glazed, so it can be used as a beautiful souvenir. The Royal Delft High Tea Workshop begins with a High Tea, served on Delft Blue tableware. During the workshop, you will learn about the history of Delft’s earthenware while painting your own tile, following the guidance of a professional painter. The tile will later be baked and glazed, just like the Delft Blue paintings.

How to Plan Your Visit to Royal Delft

If you’re planning a visit to Royal Delft, there are a few things that you should consider before making your reservations. Here are some things that can help you plan your trip.

Location and Opening Hours

The Royal Delft is located at Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft, Netherlands. The museum is open every day of the week, from 09:00-17:00, except for December 25th.

Tickets and Prices

You can purchase tickets for the Royal Delft Experience, which cost €14 per adult and €9 per child. If you opt for the Delft Blue Painting Workshop or the Royal Delft High Tea Workshop, the prices vary. Moreover, you can book your tickets online through the following link book the tour here or on the Royal Delft’s official website.

Guided Tours

You have the option to choose a guided tour or a self-guided tour. If you opt for a guided tour, you will be accompanied by an expert guide who will explain everything in detail. However, if you prefer to explore the museum on your own, the Royal Delft Experience is a perfect option.

Duration of the Visits

If you are planning a visit to the Royal Delft, you should keep in mind that the duration of the visit depends on the package you choose. The Royal Delft Experience usually takes around 60-90 minutes, while the painting workshops can last up to two hours. Thus, consider the duration of the visits while planning your schedule for the day.

The Final Verdict

The Royal Delft Experience is an excellent way to learn about the Delft Blue “Royal Delft” earthenware. It offers an authentic peek into the production process of Delft Blue earthenware, and it’s fully recommended for those interested in fine earthenware. Moreover, the painting workshops are a great way to learn about the painting process, and you can also take your unique Delft Blue tile back home. Therefore, don’t hesitate to plan a visit to Royal Delft to experience something unique and extraordinary.

FAQ about Royal Delft

If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, the historic city of Delft is a must-visit. Known for its stunning architecture, charming canals, and rich history, this city is a true gem. One of the highlights of a visit to Delft is the Royal Delft pottery factory and museum. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this fascinating attraction:

1. What is Royal Delft?

Royal Delft is a porcelain factory that has been in operation since the 17th century. It is known for its iconic blue and white pottery, which is famous around the world. The factory and museum are located in Delft, a small city in the western part of the Netherlands.

2. What can I see and do at the Royal Delft factory?

At the Royal Delft factory, you can take a tour of the production facility to see how the pottery is made. You’ll learn about the history of the company and the production process, from the raw materials to the finished product. Additionally, there is a museum on-site that showcases some of the most beautiful and important pieces in the Royal Delft collection.

3. What is the history of Royal Delft?

Royal Delft was founded in 1653, during the height of the Dutch Golden Age. The factory originally produced tiles, but later switched to pottery production. Over the centuries, the company has evolved and grown, and its iconic blue and white pottery has become famous around the world. In 1919, the company was awarded the title “Royal” by Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands, in recognition of its contribution to the country’s cultural heritage.

4. How is Royal Delft pottery made?

The process of making Royal Delft pottery is complex and involves many different steps. It starts with the preparation of the raw materials, including clay and minerals. These are mixed together to form a paste, which is then molded into the desired shape. The pottery is then glazed and decorated by hand, using a variety of techniques. Finally, it is fired in a kiln at very high temperatures to make it hard and durable.

5. Can I buy Royal Delft pottery at the factory?

Yes, the Royal Delft factory has a gift shop where you can buy a variety of pottery products. These include plates, bowls, vases, and decorative items, all in the iconic blue and white style. You can also purchase one-of-a-kind pieces that are handmade by skilled artisans at the factory.

6. How much does it cost to visit the Royal Delft factory?

Tickets to the Royal Delft factory and museum cost 12.50 euros for adults, and 6.25 euros for children aged 13-17. Children under 12 years old are free. There are also discounts available for groups and students. If you’re on a budget, keep in mind that the gift shop offers many more affordable items that still make great souvenirs.

7. How do I get to Royal Delft?

The Royal Delft factory is located in the city of Delft, which is easily accessible by public transportation from most parts of the Netherlands. If you’re coming from Amsterdam, you can take a direct train to Delft, which takes about an hour. From there, the factory is just a short walk or bike ride away.

8. When is the best time to visit Royal Delft?

The Royal Delft factory and museum are open year-round, so you can visit any time of the year. However, if you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit outside of peak tourist season (July and August). Additionally, if you’re interested in seeing the tulip fields that the Netherlands is famous for, the best time to visit is in April or May, when the flowers are in full bloom.

9. Are there any other attractions in Delft?

Yes, Delft is a charming city with many other interesting attractions. Some of the highlights include the Oude Kerk (Old Church), the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and the Vermeer Centrum Delft museum. Additionally, the city is known for its beautiful canals, which you can explore by boat tour.

10. Can I take pictures at Royal Delft?

Yes, photography is allowed at the Royal Delft museum, although there are some areas where photography is not permitted. Be sure to check the signs and ask the staff if you’re not sure where you can take photos.

In conclusion, a visit to Royal Delft is a must-do for anyone visiting the Netherlands. Whether you’re a fan of art, history, or just plain old Dutch charm, this factory and museum are sure to delight.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Royal Delft

If you are planning your trip to the Netherlands, visiting Delft is an absolute must. Delft is a city packed with culture, history, and picturesque Dutch scenery. For those interested in art, Royal Delft is a famous spot to explore traditional Delft Blue porcelain. In this guide, we will outline some must-see attractions and activities to consider during a trip to Royal Delft.

1. The Royal Delft Experience

The Royal Delft Experience is the main attraction of Royal Delft, providing an interactive tour to learn about the history of Delft Blue pottery. The tour takes visitors on a guided journey through the workshop, factory, and museum. It’s a great opportunity to see the processes used in crafting the Blue pottery from traditional materials like clay and cobalt paint. Not only that, but visitors can also enjoy a self-guided tour exploring an extensive range of historical porcelain pottery collections. For adventure seekers, the Royal Delft Experience also offers exclusive workshops where visitors can try their hand at painting Delft Blue pottery under the guidance of skilled craftsmen.

2. Historical City Center

Referred to as the “Vermeer City,” Delft is a historically rich city that should definitely be on your list of places to visit. The city center of Delft is a captivating destination, and it’s not difficult to see why the area has been a source of artistic inspiration for centuries. As you explore the city, the towering and ancient Gothic-styled Nieuwe Kerk and the stunning Old Church will spoil you with a dramatic view that perfectly complements the city’s glorious landscapes.

3. Shopping for Souvenirs

If you are looking for a unique souvenir to take home, the shops in and around the city of Delft offer plenty of choices. Visitors can find various traditional and authentic Dutch souvenirs, including the famous Delft Blue pottery, which is a great souvenir to remind you of your visit.

4. Enjoy Traditional Dutch Food.

Dutch cuisine is renowned around the globe, and Delft offers it’s visitors a vast range of traditional Dutch dishes. Mouthwatering street food and local specialties such as ‘Haring’, traditional Dutch pancakes, freshly made Dutch donuts, and of course, the famous Dutch cheese; Gouda.

5. Canal Tours

Delft’s many canals offer a peaceful escape and a stunning glimpse into the city. A relaxing boat ride along the tranquil canals is an excellent way to discover the city’s hidden secrets and the historical significance of buildings, landmarks, and waterways.

6. Other Noteworthy Places to Visit in Delft

Visitors to Delft can also enjoy a range of local gems that are often left off the typical tourist’s itineraries. Some of these exciting destinations include the Botanical Gardens, the Vermeer Center, and Prinsenhof Museum. The Botanical Gardens offer an idyllic, tranquil environment with a collection of rare and exotic plants. The Vermeer Center tells visitors the story of the famous painter, Johannes Vermeer, who was born and raised in Delft. The Prinsenhof Museum is a little piece of history, telling stories of the famous 80-year-old war that occurred in the Netherlands to those interested in military history.

Book Your Tour Now

Royal Delft is an enchanting destination full of cultural experiences, history, and tradition. A trip to the Royal Delft Experience, exploring the city center, taking a canal tour, shopping for souvenirs, and tasting the traditional Dutch food are just a few of the unique experiences the city has to offer. With a range of activities to enjoy, a trip to Royal Delft will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.