The Story of the Leach Pottery

For over 100 years, the Leach Pottery has been part of the creative heart of St Ives. Founded in 1920 by Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada, the pottery became the birthplace of British studio pottery and helped shape the way ceramics are made and understood across the world.

But the Leach Pottery has always been about more than pottery alone.

From the beginning, Bernard Leach believed that handmade objects should be part of everyday life, made with care, used daily and valued for their simplicity and honesty. Together with Shoji Hamada, he brought together ideas and techniques from both Eastern and Western traditions, creating a new approach to studio ceramics that still influences makers today.

The pottery quickly became a place of learning and exchange. Potters travelled to St Ives from across the world to work, train and share ideas, helping to build a lasting community around clay and craftsmanship.

Many of the values established in those early years remain at the centre of the Leach Pottery today. Respect for materials, thoughtful making and functional design continue to shape the work created here, from contemporary ceramics to the iconic Leach Standard Ware.

Over the years, the site itself has become an important part of ceramic history. The original studio, kilns and workshops tell the story of generations of makers who lived and worked here, while the museum and archive help preserve that legacy for future generations.

Whilst the museum is currently going through major restoration works, our Learning Programme and Shop remain open. Why not come and visit us, marvel at the Standard Ware inspired by the teaching of Bernard Leach? We are offering 10% off all ceramics during Half-Term in our shop in St.Ives. Valid until 31 May.