Last weekend, I stumbled upon an absolute gem tucked away in the heart of Brookside Garden Centre – Brookside Pottery. Picture this: a quaint, charming little space almost like a cottage hidden away. My little girl said it felt like stepping into a fairytale, a delightful surprise amidst the hustle and bustle of the garden centre.
From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with the warmest of welcomes. The staff at Brookside Pottery are incredibly friendly, radiating genuine enthusiasm for their craft and an eagerness to share it with visitors. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel at home, and their passion is absolutely infectious.
After settling in, I had a coffee and my daughter had a juice.
Now, let’s talk about the pottery selection – it’s simply amazing and incredibly extensive. Whether you’re a seasoned potter or a complete novice like my little girl, there’s something for everyone. From intricately designed money boxes, to simple yet elegant plates, there is something for all. Browsing through the shelves, I did try to find steer my little girl into painting a mug but I had no chance with princesses, bunnies and lots of animals on display.
The highlight of our visit, though, was when my daughter decided to get creative. She picked out a cute little bunny to paint, which cost £15 – a reasonable price for the joy it brought her. Watching her focus, mixing colors to create a vibrant, multicolored masterpiece, was such a delight. The staff were so patient and encouraging, offering tips and praising her efforts, making the experience even more special.
Once she finished painting her bunny, it was time for the next exciting step. The staff sprayed and dried it, and we only had to wait 30 minutes to take it home. That quick turnaround was fantastic, especially for an eager little artist who couldn’t wait to see the final result. And let me tell you, her bunny turned out absolutely adorable – a colorful, happy little creation that now sits proudly on our mantelpiece.
For those looking for a more in-depth experience, Brookside Pottery also offers the opportunity to paint with pottery paints and have your creation glazed. This is particularly great for older children or if you’re painting something like a mug. The process takes a bit longer – you’ll have to wait about two weeks to collect your glazed piece – but the finished product is a professional-looking, glossy work of art. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting to create a lasting, usable piece of pottery.
Brookside Pottery is a hidden treasure that offers more than just pottery- you can unwind with a lovely coffee, explore an extensive selection of beautiful pottery, and create your own little masterpiece.
Whether you’re spending a day out with family or looking for a peaceful solo activity, Brookside Pottery is a perfect destination and me and my little girl will be back.
If you like pottery painting, check out our review of Brooklyn Pottery in Shaw Heath near Stockport.
