Clay Planet

Ceramics enthusiasts will find themselves in proper heaven at this working pottery gallery just outside St Austell. Clay Planet showcases contemporary ceramics alongside traditional Cornish pottery, with pieces ranging from functional tableware to striking sculptural works. The space feels intimate rather than overwhelming - you can actually take time to appreciate each piece without being hustled along by crowds.

What sets this place apart is watching the potters at work. The studio area lets you peek behind the scenes at the wheel-throwing and glazing process, which keeps children fascinated for longer than you'd expect. Adults tend to get caught up in the technical discussions with the resident artists, who are generous with their knowledge about firing techniques and clay types.

The gallery works well as a rainy-day option when camping at nearby spots like East Crinnis Holiday Park or Tre-End Glamping. Allow about an hour for a proper browse, though pottery lovers could easily stretch that to two. The pieces aren't cheap, but the quality justifies the price tags - this isn't tourist tat but proper craftsmanship. Perfect for picking up a unique holiday memento that won't gather dust on a shelf back home.