Get Creative at a Pottery Workshop in Oxfordshire
Ever dreamed of shaping clay into something beautiful while soaking up the tranquillity of the countryside? At Bernwood Pottery, you can find your creative voice! Tucked away in a peaceful farmhouse setting near the ancient Bernwood Forest, that dream becomes a reality, creating a soothing, hands-on escape from the rush of everyday life. Step away from a frantic two-dimensional digital life for a few hours and free your inner artist by getting your hands messy making with clay.
If you're searching for a pottery workshop or creative class in Oxfordshire, look no further. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to reignite a creative spark, Bernwood Pottery offers the perfect setting to unwind, connect, and craft something truly unique.
A Calm, Countryside Canvas
I am Elizabeth Murphy, a ceramic artist who established my studio practice in one of our barns on our family farm in 2022. Since then, we have beautifully restored a 19th-century barn as the Art Barn for additional workshop space. Set in a countryside setting surrounded by fields and peaceful woodland, often you will gaze out the window and see pheasants dashing by and deer grazing in the garden. From the moment you arrive, the serene countryside atmosphere invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the therapeutic rhythm of working with clay. Every corner of the space has been carefully considered to provide a warm, welcoming, and inspiring environment. Whether you're joining a group session or a private pottery workshop, you'll feel instantly at ease in our Art Barn.
Mindfulness Through Clay
I am passionate about ceramics. Whether it is making one of my art pieces to a simple functional cup, I enjoy the process of making with clay and witnessing the transformation of this malleable organic material into a lasting work of art. I love to share my enthusiasm for this process with all of the participants in my classes. Under my gentle guidance, you will explore a wide range of techniques for making with clay. From hand-building techniques such as coiling to slab work and pinch pots, by the end of the session, we will achieve something that you are proud of. If you would like to learn how to throw on the wheel, I also offer private sessions for this technique.
Whether you’re sculpting a vase, shaping a mug, or crafting a whimsical figure, there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to create. Each piece becomes a reflection of your individual journey, infused with personal meaning and memories. Many visitors describe the experience as meditative, an opportunity to be present, let go of perfectionism, and reconnect with creativity.
Join a Group Workshop or Book a Private Pottery Workshop
Throughout the year, Bernwood Pottery hosts regular group pottery workshops that are open to everyone, from curious beginners to returning clay enthusiasts. These sessions are a fantastic way to meet like-minded people, share stories, and enjoy the sense of community that creativity naturally fosters.
Pottery workshops are easy to book and can be attended solo, with friends or with family groups. You will be warmly welcomed into a relaxed and friendly group, old and young alike, who all share the desire to take some time out for creativity and calm.
In addition to the farm-based sessions, I also run pop-up pottery events at local pubs and venues around Oxfordshire. These offer a cosy and social experience to allow people to connect with one another through the act of making with clay while enjoying a good drink and laughter with friends.
Looking for something more bespoke? You can also book a private pottery workshop at Bernwood Pottery for a special occasion like a birthday, hen do, or office team building event. These private sessions are designed to be fun, memorable, and personal. You and your group can create beautiful clay keepsakes together, perfect mementoes of your special day in the countryside.
Book Your Creative Escape Today
If you’re searching for a pottery workshop or pottery event in Oxford, Bernwood Pottery offers more than just a class, it offers a moment of mindfulness, a dose of inspiration, and a chance to make something meaningful with your own hands.
Whether you're treating yourself to some personal creative time, planning a relaxing afternoon with friends, organising a unique event for a group or celebrating a special occasion, Bernwood Pottery is the ideal place to unplug and get messy, in the best way possible.
Browse Bernwood Pottery’s upcoming pottery workshops or get in touch with me to plan your own creative escape.