London · Glass blowing experiences
Glass blowing experiences in London
One of the most unusual craft experiences you can try — two hours at the furnace with a professional glassblower, and a piece you made yourself to take home. From £95.
London glass blowing workshops
London glass blowing prices
| Session type | Price range | Duration | What you make |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taster experience | £95–£130 | 2 hrs | One glass piece (bowl, vase, or ornament) |
| Extended taster | £120–£160 | 2.5–3 hrs | One or two pieces |
| Half-day masterclass | £160–£200 | 3–4 hrs | 2–3 pieces, more technique coverage |
| Full-day masterclass | £200–£260 | 6 hrs | Multiple pieces, full process from gather to anneal |
| Private experience (2 people) | £200–£280 | 2 hrs | One piece each |
London prices run 15–25% above Manchester and Bristol for comparable sessions.
Book a glass blowing experience in London
Taster sessions from £95 — all materials, safety equipment and instruction included.
What to expect at a London glass blowing experience
Glass blowing is unlike any other craft experience. The furnace runs at around 1,100°C and the molten glass — called a "gather" — glows orange as it's worked. A London taster session typically lasts 2 hours with groups of 2–8 people, and each person makes one piece (a bowl, vase, or ornament shape depending on the studio).
1. Introduction & safety briefing
The glassblower explains the process, what's hot, what not to touch, and how to hold the blowpipe. About 10–15 minutes.
2. Watch a demonstration
You'll see the instructor gather molten glass, blow a bubble, and shape a piece before you start. This gives you a feel for the pace and what you're about to do.
3. Gather your glass
With close guidance, you collect your gather of molten glass from the furnace on the end of the blowpipe. This is the most nerve-wracking moment.
4. Blow and shape
The instructor guides your blowing and holds the pipe while you shape the glass with wooden blocks and gravity. You have a surprisingly large influence on the final form.
5. Colour and detail
Many studios offer coloured glass frit to roll your piece in before or during the process — each studio has its own approach here.
6. Annealing
Your finished piece goes into the annealing oven overnight. It'll be posted or available for collection within 1–2 weeks.
Practical tips for your London session
- → Wear natural fibres (cotton, wool) — synthetic fabrics can melt near the furnace. Avoid anything flammable or loose.
- → Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Sandals will be turned away.
- → Book 2–3 weeks ahead for weekend slots — London glass studios have limited capacity and fill up faster than other craft experiences.
- → Your piece won't be ready on the day. Confirm whether the studio posts pieces or requires collection before booking.
- → Small group sessions (2–4 people) give more time at the furnace than larger groups. Some studios offer private bookings.
- → Not suitable for children under 12 at most London studios — check the minimum age before booking as a family gift.
Glass blowing in other cities
London glass blowing
FAQs
Everything you need to know before you book.