Buxton Pottery Painting: pick and paint a work of art

How does it work?

This family-run business really puts visitors and families at the heart of the experience. Some people might feel nervous about taking children to a place with breakable items, but Leanne (the owner) and all of the staff were really helpful and friendly and made sure everyone knew what they were doing.

All the paints are water-based and non-toxic to ensure it is safe for all painters. The spaces are well thought-out, with one room by the café for smaller groups, who might also be enjoying a cake and cuppa. The larger room is designed with families in mind. It is spacious with slightly lower chairs and tables (and even a baby playpen, if needed). The large tables meant there was more than enough room for all the pottery, paints, brushes as well as the well-earnt coffee! They are also setting up a roof terrace, which will be another great space on a sunny day.

1. Picking your pottery

There are a lovely selection of items to choose from, ranging from little animals and money boxes to pet bowls and charming lanterns. Some that would make great gifts! Staff will help you decide on something suitable if you need a little guidance. Also, check the price as this varies depending on the item. The kids loved this first stage and were fascinated by all the shapes and sizes.

2. Sponging and painting

Once you are at your table, you can get to work on your masterpieces. After a sponge down of your pottery, choose your colours and brushes and get creative. A colour wheel helps you decide what shades to go for. There are a range of fun sponges that can also be used if anyone would find them easier or quicker.

3. Glazing

Once your artworks are complete, the trusty team will take them off your hands to glaze them (give it the shine!) and fire them, ready for you to collect at a later date.

It was wonderful to see the vivid colours and gloss once they were finished.

Do I need to book?

It is advisable to book ahead. Buxton Pottery Painting do try to leave some tables available for walk-ins. However, this isn’t always possible, so try to pop in or call ahead if you are hoping for a slot the same day. You can book sessions via their website or by calling or emailing them.

A deposit is taken at the time of booking, which is redeemable off your final bill. All paints, brushes as well as the final glazing & firing of the pottery are included in the price. You pay for the pottery piece(s) that you choose to paint. And of course any tasty cakes or drinks you are tempted by.

How much time can you spend there?

The sessions are two hours long, which felt like a really good amount of time, even if you spend a while choosing your pottery and paints, and also enjoying a refreshment.

Our 3 year old was really engaged for a good hour, sponging and painting and looking at all the possible colours. We were pleasantly surprised by how absorbed he was in his artwork.

Bear in mind the size of the item you choose for a younger child as they might struggle to complete a larger piece on their own. Our crafty 6 year old was in her element and would have continued happily all day! She was fascinated by the many different brushes and techniques that could be tried out.

Is this just for kids?

Definitely not! Buxton Pottery Painting caters for anyone and everyone. It feels so welcoming and encourages any inquisitive painters or those looking for a sociable or fun activity. This was really special to do as a family. It was lovely to chat together and to explore colours, patterns and ideas over our paintbrushes and creations.

The children were very focussed on their own designs and experiments, which meant the adults could also get creative. We often dipped in to help them, but it all felt surprisingly stress-free and calm.

You could also take a moment to sample some of their locally made cakes or enjoy a locally roasted coffee, whilst the family are busy working on their designs.

When is it open?

Buxton Pottery Painting is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, with sessions throughout this time. These opening times may vary over holiday periods, so do check. They also have a variety of special events at different times of the year, so keep a look out for those too!

How much is it?

Pottery pieces start from £19 and this includes the 2 hour painting session as well as all the materials, glazing and firing. Remember to check the cost of the items before you begin painting them as there are a range of prices.

The items would make wonderful presents. All of the pottery has been designed to be used, rather than just ornamental, so a potential gift that keeps on giving!

Can I take my ceramic home the same day?

No you can’t. This is because the pottery needs to be glazed and dried in the kiln, which can take up to 10 studio working days (Wed – Sun). Keep this in mind if you are visiting the area on holiday, as your items are unlikely to be ready within a week. If you aren’t local to the area, Leanne (the owner) will happily post your pottery piece(s) to you for an additional cost.

How can I find it?

Buxton Pottery Painting is located in the historic Cavendish Arcade (which was once a Victorian Bathhouse). It is very well signed, both from the outside and once you enter. Just head for the open staircase and make your way up to the studio/café. There is also a lift if needed.

The arcade itself has a really lovely selection of shops and cafes, so make sure you leave time for a little browse before or after your painting.

Where can I park?

Buxton has a lot of parking options, especially around the Pavilion Gardens. There are a number of car parks and some street parking. Not all parking is free at all times, so please do check the signage and parking costs.

What else can we do in Buxton?

Buxton pottery painting makes a great activity to combine with an explore of the nearby Pavilion Gardens, which is also where the local swimming pool is located. Do check out our guide to visiting Buxton with kids for more inspiration.

Final thoughts on Buxton Pottery Painting

This felt like a really unique experience to do as a family and we all loved the process and the chatter over our artworks. Having some equally unique pottery treasures to show for it was also very special.

Our advice is to go in with a bit of an idea of what you may wish to do. But also just enjoy the process of everyone getting creative and seeing what masterpieces are created! If you feel it may be a little expensive for a full family activity, it may be that it is just the children who get crafty whilst the adults oversee whilst enjoying a nice coffee.

There are so many beautiful pottery pieces (some even of local landmarks) making them a great keepsake from your time in the area. And remember, your pottery will not be available to take home on the day, but postage options are available.

Happy painting!