Moravian Pottery and Tile Works
Step into a living history of ceramic art at the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, where traditional craftsmanship meets artistic vision.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See artisans at work
Moravian Pottery and Tile Works
Best Time
See artisans at work
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a living history of ceramic art at the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, where traditional craftsmanship meets artistic vision.
"It was a fun realization. I loved everything about this place, it spoke to my creative side. "
🎯 Book Tickets Ahead
Purchase tickets in advance to avoid sell-outs, especially on weekends. 🎟️
🚗 GPS Can Be Tricky
If using GPS, keep going past the first castle-like structure; the museum is just beyond it. :world_map:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 505 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tile-Making Process
Working studios
Witness artisans crafting intricate tiles using traditional methods and local clay, just as Henry Mercer did.
Mercer's Historic Tiles
Exhibition areas
Marvel at the detailed, story-telling tiles created by Henry Chapman Mercer, many used in his iconic Fonthill Castle.
The Gift Shop
Gift shop
Discover a curated selection of beautiful, handmade tiles and unique ceramic pieces to take home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Combine with Fonthill Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Ahead
Purchase tickets in advance to avoid sell-outs, especially on weekends. 🎟️
🚗 GPS Can Be Tricky
If using GPS, keep going past the first castle-like structure; the museum is just beyond it. :world_map:
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Tours
Explore the facility at your own pace after an introductory documentary. 🚶
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
The gift shop offers beautiful handmade tiles and ceramic pieces, perfect for gifts. 🎁
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Ahead
Purchase tickets in advance to avoid sell-outs, especially on weekends. 🎟️
🚗 GPS Can Be Tricky
If using GPS, keep going past the first castle-like structure; the museum is just beyond it. :world_map:
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Tours
Explore the facility at your own pace after an introductory documentary. 🚶
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
The gift shop offers beautiful handmade tiles and ceramic pieces, perfect for gifts. 🎁
🎨 Clay Experience
Consider the Tour and Clay experience to craft your own handmade masterpiece.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works for its fascinating history, the skill of its artisans, and the beauty of its tiles. Many are inspired by Henry Mercer's vision and the traditional craftsmanship. The gift shop is a popular spot for unique souvenirs. Some visitors note that GPS can be a bit confusing upon arrival, and booking tickets in advance is recommended.
"I didn’t realize that what I was seeing as we drove up was our destination. It was of course visually unique, but I also felt an immediate familiarity about the place. Once we listened to the introductory film I immediately knew what it was. Henry Mercer was well traveled, one of the places he took his inspiration for his castle from was the missions he visited in California. I am from CA and subconsciously recognized that. It was a fun realization. I loved everything about this place, it spoke to my creative side. I wanted to move right in and start making tiles.🤣. My husband did finally pull me out, but not before I purchased some tiles to use at home."
Sonja Saylor
"I was here during a Halloween festival and Fonthill's open meander days. Definitely do a tour of the tileworks and/or talk to the docents. Interesting history plus they still do commissions today. Definitely do a tour of the castle next door too."
K Lizotte
"Great tour with welcoming staff dedicated to preserving the legacy of Henry Mercer. The experience begins with a short documentary that provides an excellent overview of Mercer’s life, the property’s development, and the tile-making process. From there, you take a self-guided tour through the facility, ending with an artist actively creating new tiles. The craftsmanship and history are fascinating, and the gift shop is outstanding—beautiful pieces and a perfect way to take home a bit of Mercer’s artistry."
Eric Bauer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Moravian Pottery and Tile Works is located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. While GPS is generally reliable, some visitors note that it can be a bit tricky. If you see a castle-like structure, keep driving as the museum is just beyond it. Parking is available on-site.
Public transportation options to Doylestown are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works.
The Moravian Pottery and Tile Works is often visited in conjunction with Fonthill Castle. Many visitors find it convenient to park once and explore both sites on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for weekend visits or during special events like TileFest, as they can sell out.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Special events may have extended hours.
Yes, the TileWorks offers a Founding Membership which includes benefits like free admission to regular tours and discounts on Moravian tiles.
While on-site ticket purchases might be possible, buying in advance is strongly advised to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
Admission typically includes an introductory documentary and a self-guided tour of the facility, allowing you to see artisans at work and historical exhibits.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
You'll see artisans demonstrating the traditional tile-making process, historical kilns and equipment, and beautiful examples of Mercer's work. You can also explore the gift shop and potentially participate in a clay experience.
While the main tour is self-guided after an introductory film, docents are often available to answer questions and provide insights into the history and craft.
Absolutely! The gift shop features a wide selection of handmade tiles, many created on-site, as well as other ceramic pieces.
Yes, children can be fascinated by watching the artisans at work and learning about the historical processes. The hands-on clay experience can also be a hit.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the facility, watching demonstrations, and browsing the gift shop.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure, especially if using flash.
The working studios with artisans in action, the displays of historic tiles, and the unique architecture of the building itself offer great photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically not permitted within the museum grounds or buildings. Please adhere to all posted regulations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit