The Clay Room UK - Pottery Classes in Orpington

This studio has been a constant little creative escape for me over the years. Everyone is so kind and encouraging, and it’s such a relaxed, inspiring place to spend time. The Clay Room is perfect for anyone wanting to try a one-off taster, find a new hobby, or just reconnect with their creative side. Highly recommend! I recently took part in a slip casting workshop with Sophie and absolutely loved it! The afternoon was fascinating, hands-on, and genuinely so much fun - a must do if you’re looking to try something new (and to take home some brilliant pots)!

I had a private mould-making all day workshop with Sophie and it was brilliant. It was full on with lots of info and techniques to take in and try out. But it was so satisfying to have 3 different slip-casting moulds at the end of the day. Sophie is such an expert in her field and explains the best ways to create moulds, how to mix and pour plaster correctly and how to avoid common pitfalls. Can't wait to use them in different ways!

I’ve been attending Saturday workshops for almost a year at the Clay Room after doing a taster workshop and I love it. Sophie is a fantastic instructor, and I appreciate that we are encouraged to explore our own ideas, and I find the mix of levels and abilities in the group both inspiring and helpful. Would highly recommend to anyone!

I attended a throwing taster session on Sunday morning and it was great! Sophie was very patient and clearly showed us how to do each step so it wasn’t overwhelming as a beginner. We were able to create two bowls in two hours, it felt like time flew by while we were there. Would definitely recommend !

I joined a group slip-casting workshop led by Sophie and it was fun, informative and really well organised. We used different mould shapes and porcelain slip colours in a variety of styles. The pieces were fired quickly and I'm keen to experiment more now I've done this session.

I had an amazing 3 hours with Cat on a Christmas clay taster session. I managed to throw a pot on the wheel and handbuild 3 Christmas tree tea light holders and I am hoping that the kiln gods will be kind. Cat was amazing, really supportive, reassuring and encouraging just when you needed it.

I’ve never thrown before but have always had an interest in starting. I went to a two hour taster session and absolutely loved it. Sophie was so patient and knowledgeable. She broke down the whole process and explained why each step is important. The classes are small so you really do get the expertise and one on one teaching. I’m signed up for the waiting list and will 100% be going back!!