Overview
Prince August Toy Soldier Factory Visitor Centre is Europe’s sole dedicated toy‑soldier factory and one of the world’s largest collections of hand‑cast miniatures. Set in the picturesque Kilnamartyra village, midway between Cork City and Killarney, the centre combines a working workshop, a museum‑style exhibition hall and a fully stocked gift shop. Admission is free, and the site is wheelchair‑friendly with free parking, Wi‑Fi and a café serving tea, coffee and snacks.
History
The venture began in 1981 when Swedish entrepreneur Lars Edman arrived in Ireland in 1976 and founded the Prince August brand. Starting from a modest roadside stall, Edman’s passion for miniature casting grew into a full‑time factory. By the late 1980s the operation secured a licence to produce officially‑approved Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Mithril miniatures – a distinction that still sets the factory apart. Over the decades the workshop expanded, culminating in the 26 × 13 ft (8 × 4 m) Battle of Waterloo diorama, a labour of love by German hobbyist Andre Rudolf that now displays 15 000 hand‑painted figures.
What to See & Do
- Live casting demonstrations – Every half‑hour staff melt tin in rubber moulds and pour it into tiny cavities, producing a soldier right before your eyes.
- Battle of Waterloo exhibition – The massive diorama showcases 15 000 figures, the result of eight years’ work by Andre Rudolf.
- Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit miniatures – Over 800 Tolkien‑licensed characters, from Gandalf to Sauron, are hand‑cast on site.
- Hands‑on workshops – Choose from standard (€12‑€16), premium (€21‑€25) or themed sessions such as fairy‑door, comic‑hero, or Tolkien‑inspired workshops. Sessions run 40‑90 minutes, are suitable for ages 7+, and you keep your finished piece.
- Family‑friendly activities – Child‑safe wooden swords, shields and pre‑painted Papo figures let younger visitors join the fun.
- Gift shop – Browse hand‑painted miniatures, chess sets, Irish crafts, jewellery and starter kits for hobbyists.
- Refreshments – A small café offers tea, coffee and light snacks, perfect for a break after a painting session.
Events & Workshops
Workshops run throughout the week, with the last session finishing at 16:00. Special themed workshops are offered on weekends and during school holidays, including:
- Tolkien Day (usually late October) – Focused on casting and painting iconic Middle‑Earth characters.
- Fairy‑Door & Elf workshops (spring and summer) – Popular with families and school groups.
All sessions can be booked on‑site or in advance via the online booking portal. Online reservations receive a 10 % discount and a complimentary popcorn snack.
Practical Information
Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Sunday & Bank Holidays | 10:00 – 17:00 |
The centre is closed from 20 December to 2 January and on St Patrick’s Day.
Admission
| Visitor type | Fee |
|---|---|
| General entry | Free |
| Workshops | €12‑€25 (depending on type) |
| Battle of Waterloo exhibition | Small charge (price varies) |
Booking – Workshops can be booked on‑site or online via the booking portal. A modest deposit secures your place; the balance is payable on arrival.
Contact & Access
- Phone: +353 26 40222
- Website: toysoldierfactory.ie
- Address: Kilnamartyra Village, Macroom, Co. Cork, P12 FN79, Ireland
- Coordinates: 51.90044, -9.08256 (≈ 51.9 km from Cork Airport, 47.5 km from Cork City centre)
- Parking: Free on‑site car park.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair‑friendly entrance, free Wi‑Fi throughout the centre.
Getting there
The visitor centre sits just off the N22, a short drive from both Cork City and Killarney. Public transport options include local bus services to Macroom, followed by a brief taxi ride. For drivers, the free car park is located adjacent to the main entrance.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the Kilnamartyra area, consider adding a few more Cork highlights to your itinerary:
- Macroom – Explore the historic Macroom Castle and the bustling town centre. (Macroom)
- Ballyvourney – A gateway to the Muskerry Gaeltacht, offering traditional music sessions and scenic walks. (Ballyvourney)
- Ballincollig Castle – A Norman ruin overlooking the Maglin Valley, ideal for a short hike. (Ballincollig Castle)
Additional resources
- Short video tutorials on hobby casting: Shop videos
- Detailed workshop information and pricing: Workshops page
- Online shop for moulds and paints: Shop now