Leach Pottery Guide
Leach Pottery: A Legacy of Craftsmanship in St Ives Guide
Discover the Leach Pottery, a historic pottery studio in St Ives, Cornwall, renowned for its significant contribution to studio pottery in the 20th century. Founded in 1920 by Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada, the pottery embodies a fusion of Eastern and Western ceramic traditions. Visitors can explore the workshops, museum, and gallery, gaining insight into the pottery-making process and the artistic philosophy behind it. The Leach Pottery's history is deeply rooted in the Arts and Crafts movement and the Anglo-Oriental aesthetic. Bernard Leach, after spending years in Japan, returned to England with a vision to create functional and beautiful pottery that reflected both Eastern and Western influences. He partnered with Shoji Hamada, a renowned Japanese potter, to establish the pottery in St Ives. Over the years, the Leach Pottery has trained generations of potters and played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of contemporary ceramics. At the Leach Pottery, you can witness the entire pottery-making process, from clay preparation to firing. Take a tour of the workshops, observe skilled potters at work, and learn about the different techniques used to create the pottery's distinctive style. The museum showcases a collection of historical and contemporary pieces, providing a comprehensive overview of the pottery's legacy. You can also participate in workshops and courses to try your hand at pottery making. While not a culinary destination, St Ives offers many cafes and restaurants serving Cornish specialties like pasties and seafood.
Transportation
The Leach Pottery is easily accessible by public transport. From St Ives town centre, you can take the T1 bus towards Trenwith. Alight at the 'Leach Pottery' stop. Alternatively, it's a pleasant walk of approximately 20 minutes from the town centre.
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Saturday: 10am - 5pm
Ticket Price
Adult: £12.50, Child (5-16): £7.50