Unique Workspaces & Landscapes in the Golden Valley
Magical studios from tiny wagons to rural potteries
Painters and sculptors, potters and jewellers, the Golden Valley is home to a whole host of artists and makers. The Valley is a real melting pot of creativity, with the rugged landscape and tranquil countryside inspiring the creatives found in every nook and cranny of this undeniably magical place.
Ceramics and Cake in a Walled Garden
Start off at Cabalva Ceramics, near Whitney-on-Wye. Hidden away, at the bottom of a walled kitchen garden, you’ll find a fantastic array of pottery on show. This is where barrister-turned-TV-exec-turned-potter, Corisande Albert, has her studio. Using stoneware and porcelain, Corisande creates beautiful, functional pieces for you to add to your home. There’s also work from other potters and creatives on display for you to enjoy, including renowned knife maker Joel Black exhibiting from his blacksmith studio.
Grab refreshments and seasonal produce, homegrown in the kitchen garden while you’re there, and chat to Corisande about the regenerative farm she manages alongside her pottery studio.
Creatives, a Castle & a Foodie Market
On the northern edge of the Golden Valley, sits Hay-on-Wye, which has a reputation for both books and as a hub for artists and craftspeople. Visit Oil & Oak, where the work of over 40 local creatives is on display. Pop in on Wed 11 Sept to witness ceramicist Jane Blair’s process of crafting sgraffito pieces with terracotta clay or join a daily botanical mono-printing workshop, starting at 10am, from Thurs 12 Sept.
Next, climb the steps of the beautifully restored Hay Castle. Its origin is shrouded in legend but it played a vital role in defending the princedoms of Wales following the Norman conquest. The ground floor is free to explore, but grab a ticket if you’d like to delve deeper. Up in the cafe, there’s lots of local art on display as well as excellent seasonal grub. If you're visiting on a Thursdays then the market is also a good call for lunch – a sourdough pizza trailer and a posh mac n’ cheese stand often beckon. The bookshops lining every alley of the town hardly need mentioning, though this bookworm’s daydream really needs to be seen to be believed.
A ten-minute stroll brings you to Larchwood Studio at Racquety Farm where Maureen Richardson is showing her fantastic paper-making and upcycling, alongside gorgeous pieces by eight maker friends - including Japanese woodblock printing, blown glass sculpture and oil paintings. Learn something new at one of the workshops, enjoy makers' talks and demos dotted throughout the week, and then take a glass of cider made on the farm at the onsite tap room.
Handmade Workwear & More Homemade Cake
Over in the wonderfully named Turnastone, husband-and-wife team Victoria and Simon Whitfield run Field & Found Clothiers. In their fabulous off-grid studio-wagon, hand-built by Simon, seamstress Victoria creates practically-minded clothes and workwear pieces for people who, well, ‘do stuff’. Victoria turns her needle to all kinds of pieces – whether you’re looking for a sturdy workshop apron, a waxed canvas gardening smock, or a pair of beautifully light and airy Irish linen dungarees. Ready-to-wear garments are available off the rack, and you can even get measured up for your very own bespoke pieces.
It’s a great place to stop if you’re looking for a special gift for someone. Visit on the weekend to enjoy homemade food and drink at Birch Cottage café.
Printing, Tinting and Etching
Journey down to the gorgeous Olchon Valley, right by the Welsh border, to discover Helen Arthur's work at Skirrid Studio & Gallery. Her paintings and etchings bring vivid landscapes to life - she captures the richly coloured views and wild light of the Brecon Beacons, as well as the contrasting, intimate tranquility of the woodlands and hedgerows beneath. On Saturday 7th, Helen's running a free demonstration of her printing techniques. If you're captivated and want to try it for yourself, book in an autumn printmaking workshop with Helen while you're there.
Mythical Landscapes & Historic Gems
Fans of fantasy will be in their element among the ruins and rolling hills of the Valley. After all, this is a landscape loved by C.S. Lewis, who surely had Arthur’s Stone in mind when he wrote the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The Stone, a tomb of significant archaeological interest and the inspiration for Arthurian legend, dates back over 5000 years. Stone churches and mysterious ruins also abound, with nearby Snodhill Castle an intriguing example of Norman fortifications.
To properly appreciate the matchless countryside, pop on your walking boots and head for the hills! The dramatic Black Mountains are certain to call to the heart of every adventurer. Tried and tested walks include the Cat’s Back, so named for its curious hunched shape, which rewards explorers with incredible views across both England and Wales. For experienced knights-errant, try a stretch of the Golden Valley Pilgrim Way, which totals 60 miles exploring the very soul of this rich landscape.
Stay Awhile
Here in the Golden Valley, you can really take your pick of places to stay. Dotted around, you’ll find homely inns and guesthouses, as well as plenty of self-catering properties – from teeny chocolate-box cottages to old timber-framed manors. For something a bit different, see if Drovers Rest, a short drive from Hay and Whitney, has availability for their super posh safari tents, inspired by the owners’ homeland of South Africa.
Remaining in the northern part of the Valley, you’ve also got Cynefin Retreats, where you can check into ultra stylish pods and lodges surrounded by meadows and woodland. Pour a drink, bring out the blankets, and enjoy a barbecue under the stars in this peaceful little haven.
