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The only nail factory in Francethe last still in business in Europe, open its doors to you for a a guided tour in Creil, only 45 minutes from Paris, a few kilometres from the Castle of Chantilly and Senlis Cathedral.
La Clouterie Rivierre is a unique factory in the world, with a exceptional expertise and a timeless setting.
A unique place steeped in history
Let yourself be tempted by this atypical visit (you meet the workers who still work on century-old machines that only they know!) of a 19th century. Come to Creil for an unusual Wednesday afternoon... Board the train in Paris and head for Creil: only a 30 minutes' journey by Chantilly: you won't have time to get bored!
The Rivierre nail factoryis named after the family who founded it in Creil in 1888, next to the Creil train station (on the Nogent-sur-Oise side), in a street that was once very industrial (located in "6 rue des usines" (factory street): it's a given!).
We are first amazed by the old industrial atmosphereth that you discover when you arrive: nothing seems to have changed since that time. Starting with the family home at the entrance to the factory, you're immediately plunged into this century, and you can imagine the workers arriving under the watchful eye of Marie Rivierre who, at the age of 27, inherited the factory from her early deceased husband, and managed it successfully for 35 years.
A factory worth visiting
Our guide welcomes us at the entrance to the main building and from the first moment we talk to him, You can feel the passion he has for this industrial heritage and the respect he has for those who worked there and those who still work there today in this factory, the only one of its kind in Europe.
He shares his passion with us, recounting the history of this family business and showing us some of the nails made here (only a few, there are many). 2,800 references of forged nails, nails and tacks in the catalogue today!): small, large, round, square, made of various materials depending on the order... we could never have imagined such a variety!
Our guide then takes us from one end of the production line to the other to discover the main characteristics of this ancestral know-how, which was awarded the Living Heritage Company label, from the wire drawing to the machine room to the packaging area. It smells of oil and grease.
A "Zola-esque" decor
In the factory, a "Zola-esque" decorwith its magnificent glass roof and shed roofIt's a regular destination for filmmakers and musicians looking for authentic locations to shoot their work.
During a visit with your friends, you will be transported into an unknown world, from another era...
One thing's certain: since I discovered this place, I no longer look at a nail the same way.
Brigitte
I recommend this visit to everyone. Thank you again for your time.
During your visit, you'll be immersed in the world of 19th century and meet men working on century-old machines.
A rich programme
Guided tours
All year round, Guided tours take place on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm. During these weekday visits, the workers exercise their unique know-how in front of you. It is an opportunity to discover their mastery and to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the nail factory: the noise of the tapping machines, the smell of the grease, the heat of the ovens...
Only available at weekends? The Rivierre nail factory sometimes offers guided tours on Saturday afternoons during the holidays or at special national events: visit theEvents' calendar ! Please note: the workers are not present during these visits.
Workshops for children
During the school holidaysThe Rivierre Nail Factory offers special tours for children, followed by an art workshop with nailsto be enjoyed in family!
Private tours
Make an appointment for a an exceptional visit by a small groupMonday to Friday: the factory opens its doors just for you...
For small groups of up to 10 people, the Clouterie Rivierre offers private guided tours!
Security measures
Be careful, the roof of the factory is a glass roof. Wich means that the temperature inside can be very hot in summer and very cold in winter, so please dress accordingly for your well-being!
The factory is in operation, workers are at work every day and nails or other scrap metal may fall out: the Nail factory require that all visitors wear closed-toe shoes with thick soles for their safety. You will not be allowed to enter the factory otherwise.
Take advantage of
Take a group tour of Clouterie Rivierre
The Clouterie Rivierre also welcomes groups, adults and young people. !
Consult our group brochure !
Living Heritage Company
The Clouterie Rivierre has been awarded the Living Heritage CompanyThis is a French label that highlights and promotes the unique skills and excellence of French craftspeople.
Access
Opening hours
All opening periods have passed. Please contact the owner directly for more information
Open every day by reservation, including for individuals (package price €120 for up to 10 people).
Prices
| Adult price | 12 € |
| Other price Guided tour + children's workshop with snack | 12 € |
| Child price -Under 12s | 6 € |
