Cornwall Open Studios 2025: Ceramics from Truro to Porthtowan

Open Studios Cornwall 2025 almost died a death after Creative Kernow announced last year that it was no longer able to host it. It was resurrected by an enthusiastic team of artists and I believe it is now bigger and better than ever. There is a dedicated website which is available year round and a fabulous online map to plan your visit. If you are a pottery lover, I'd suggest a route between Truro and Porthtowan to include 5 ceramicists and will make a fantastic day out.

If you start your trip in Truro, then your first stop will be:

1. Gilliflower Pottery (Studio 180)

   This is my garden studio, on the outskirts of Chacewater where I make mostly functional pots on the wheel. My pots are inspired by a love of sharing food with friends and family and are made to use and enjoy daily. We have a lovely seating area outside, where you are very welcome to enjoy some refreshments or stay for a chat.

   
   

2. Sparrow's Nest Ceramics (Studio 181)

   Less than 5 minutes down the road, on the way to Blackwater, is Cara Fitzmaurice's studio, high on the hill. Cara handbuilds beautiful nature inspired pottery and decorates her pieces with charming illustrations and her own words. She also fires some of her pieces outdoors, using saggar and raku techniques.

   
   

3. Lucy Joines (Studio 186)

   A short drive furhter, is Lucy's lovely studio in the village of Mount Hawke. Lucy makes colourful pieces, both functional and sculptural. Her pots or either hand-sculpted or wheelthrown and playfully decoated, drawing on tales of animals and their natural habitat.

   
   

4. Jess Berriman and Gail Cooper (Studio 184)

   Jess (from Mount Hawke) and Gail (from St Agnes) are two ceramicists teaming up with other artistis to exhibit their work at the Mount Pleasant Eco Park in Porthtowan. Jess specialises in delicate porcelain jewellery, flowers and decorations, in beautifully muted and natural colours. Gail makes strikingly simple and elegant functional pieces, inspired by the mining heritage of the North Cornwall coast.

If you're making a day of it and fancy a pitstop , I can recommend a number of places (all dog friendly) a stonesthrow from our studios:

The Cornish Craft Barn Cafe serves tasty breakfasts and lunches and great homemade cakes. There is indoor and outdoor seating and the view is beautiful.

The Red Lion is a pub with a lovely sunny back garden. It serves food and snacks.

Canteen Mount Hawke serves delicious breakfast and lunch made from seasonal local produce.

Canteen at the Eco Park is the the plant based sister business of Canteen Mount Hawke. The breakfasts and lunches are hearty and delicious, and the setting is beautiful.

Blue Bar in Porthtowan is practically on the beach, with a stunning view and good food.