Berlin-Marwitz: Factory Tour of Hedwig Bollhagen Ceramics

If you’re fascinated by traditional crafts or want a glimpse into a long-standing German artisan story, this factory tour in Berlin-Marwitz might be right up your alley. It offers a chance to see how handmade ceramics are made and learn about the legacy of Hedwig Bollhagen, a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship in Germany since 1934.

Two things we truly appreciate about this experience are its authenticity and focus on tradition. Visiting a working factory that’s been producing ceramics for close to a century is a rare opportunity, and the chance to see artisans at work really brings the process alive. Plus, the factory shop at the end gives you a chance to pick up beautiful, hand-painted pieces to take home as a memorable souvenir.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite short—about 1.5 hours—so if you’re expecting an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at every stage of production, you might find it somewhat limited. The tour is also conducted in German, so non-German speakers should consider whether a guide or translation might be necessary.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy discovering authentic local crafts, appreciate handmade products, or want a different, less touristy activity near Berlin. Families with older children might find it engaging, especially if they enjoy arts and crafts, but it’s primarily geared toward adults interested in traditional craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Learn about one of Germany’s oldest ceramic factories, founded by Hedwig Bollhagen.
• Traditional craftsmanship: See how ceramics are made by hand and hear directly from the artisans.
• Affordable price: At $17, it offers good value for a 1.5-hour guided tour.
• Limited duration: The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, so plan accordingly.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants, which allows for a more personal experience.
• Shop at the end: Browse and purchase elegant, handmade ceramics directly from the factory store.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Factory Tour

If you enjoy crafts, history, or just want a relaxing, educational activity outside the usual museum scene, this factory tour checks several boxes. Located near Berlin, the historic HB workshops have been making high-quality ceramics for nearly 90 years, and their story is as fascinating as their products.

The Factory and Its History

The tour begins inside the historic HB workshops, where you get a quick but insightful overview of the factory’s roots. Founded in 1934, Hedwig Bollhagen’s legacy is woven into every piece of their ceramics. The guide, speaking in German, shares interesting tidbits about how the factory has survived through decades, maintaining traditional methods despite modern options.

While the tour is concise, it provides enough background to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each piece. You’ll learn that this factory is among the oldest producing ceramics in Germany, making it a noteworthy stop for those interested in German design or artisanal industries.

Behind-the-Scenes Craftsmanship

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to see how ceramics are handmade. From shaping the clay to hand-painting intricate designs, the process is shown in action. We loved the way the artisans take time for each piece, emphasizing quality over speed—something that often gets lost in mass production.

Visitors can observe the detailed work of the artisans, who have been perfecting their craft for decades. Hearing from the employees about their long-standing dedication adds a human touch to the experience. According to reviews, the workers are happy to share their expertise and passion, which makes the tour feel genuine and insightful.

The Production Process

Part of the charm is simply witnessing the patience and skill involved in traditional ceramics making. While the tour doesn’t specify every step, you’ll likely see some of the key stages—clay shaping, decorating, and handpainter techniques. Since photography and video recording are not permitted inside, the emphasis remains on observing and absorbing the atmosphere.

This behind-the-scenes look offers a tangible connection to the craftsmanship and tradition that continue to define Hedwig Bollhagen’s ceramics. The fact that they’ve maintained traditional handmade work for around 90 years makes their products feel authentic, durable, and unique.

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The Factory Store

At the end of the tour, you’re invited to browse the factory’s shop, which offers a wide selection of elegant, practical, and beautifully hand-painted ceramics. From mugs and plates to decorative pieces, there’s a good range of items for personal use or gifts.

The prices are reasonable considering the craftsmanship involved, and many visitors appreciate the chance to buy directly from the artisans. Keep in mind that you should set aside some time if you want to browse leisurely or pick up a special piece.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour costs $17 per person, which is quite affordable for a guided experience, especially considering its focus on craftsmanship and heritage. It lasts about 1.5 hours, with limited availability so checking the schedule beforehand is wise. The small group size—up to 10 participants—ensures a more intimate, personal experience, which is ideal if you prefer avoiding large crowds.

The tour is conducted in German, so non-German speakers should consider whether to bring along a translation app or find a guide. The tour does not include food, drinks, or personal expenses, so plan accordingly.

Booking is flexible—there’s a full refund if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance—which gives you peace of mind if your plans change. The experience is suitable for those with an interest in traditional arts, craftsmanship, or just looking for a quieter activity outside Berlin’s busy city center.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals most to craft lovers, history buffs, or those wanting a more authentic, less commercial activity near Berlin. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to see traditional craftsmanship in action and enjoy high-quality handmade products. Families with older children might find it engaging, especially if they have an interest in arts and crafts, but it’s not specifically geared towards children.

Because it’s a guided experience in German with no photography allowed during the tour, it’s best for visitors who are comfortable with some language barriers or who enjoy more original, unfiltered artisan environments. If you’re after a quick, affordable peek into Germany’s ceramic tradition, this is a solid choice.

FAQs about the Hedwig Bollhagen Factory Tour

Is this tour suitable for non-German speakers? The tour is guided in German, so non-German speakers might need a translation app or guided assistance, but the visual parts of the process are accessible to all.

How long does the tour last? Expect about 1.5 hours from start to finish.

What’s included in the price? The guided tour of the factory is included; personal expenses, food, and drinks are not.

Can I record videos or take photos? No, photography and video recording inside the factory are not permitted.

How far in advance should I book? It’s best to check availability early, as the tour is small and spots fill up quickly.

Is there a shop at the end? Yes, you can browse and purchase ceramics directly from the factory store after the tour.

Is the tour family-friendly? It might suit families with older children interested in arts and crafts, but keep in mind the tour’s focus on craftsmanship and the time commitment.

What is the price? The tour costs $17 per person, which is quite reasonable for this type of experience.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable clothing is fine; avoid bringing large bags or items you don’t want to carry around during the tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at traditional ceramics making in Germany, this factory tour offers a worthwhile window into an enduring craft. It’s a relaxed, informative experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and the chance to buy authentic handmade ceramics, all at an accessible price.

Ideal for craft aficionados, artsy travelers, or anyone curious about German artisanal industries, this tour provides a memorable break from the usual sightseeing routine. Just remember it’s in German and a bit brief, so if you’re craving a deep dive into every aspect of ceramics or a multilingual guide, you might want to consider other options.

This experience is a charming and authentic peek into the world of handmade ceramics—one that leaves you appreciating the skill, patience, and tradition behind every piece.

You can check availability for your dates here: