Toy with history

Nestled in the small village of Kilnamartyra in county Cork is an experience like no other – Ireland’s one and only Toy Soldier Factory.

Whether you are seven or 70, there is something here that will ensnare your imagination as you browse the factory’s legions of metal miniatures.

Once you’ve handpicked your army, factory staff will make the soldiers for you to paint yourself in the spacious indoor painting area.

Hobby casting involves pouring liquid, low temperature metal such as pewter, into pre-set rubber moulds which, when cool, allows the figures to be easily removed.

Workshops vary from 60 to 90 minutes and can include casting demonstrations. Afterwards, the figures you have chosen could become heirlooms that you will cherish for decades.

The factory’s visitor centre is filled with miniatures themed across thousands of years of history, from chess sets celebrating the Battle of Clontarf, to figurines as varied as Michael Collins and Cúchulainn, the 'Hound of Ulster'.

Soldiers of ancient Rome and Napoleon’s La Grande Armée line the factory’s shelves, ready to go to battle for king and country.

You’ll also find fantasy figurines from 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings' including Gandalf, Legolas and Gimli, not to mention monsters like balrogs and dragons.

All of these experiences are only a short drive from Cork city as you go towards Killarney on the N22, a little past Macroom.

Visits to the factory do require prebooking to allow for social distancing and re-started in early June.

Each table booked can seat up to eight people. A wide variety of ages can be catered for too, so just check in by ringing 026 4022 or checking the website toysoldierfactory.ie.

For further information, prices and booking, visit toysoldierfactory.ie.

The Toy Soldier Factory is located at P12 FN79.