Bendigo Pottery: Family Fun Day Out

If you’re planning a trip to Bendigo with the family and want something a little different—something hands-on, creative, and packed with history—Bendigo Pottery should be high on your list. It’s Australia’s oldest working pottery, and while that might sound like one for the history buffs, it turned out to be one of the most engaging family outings we’ve done in a long time.

Bendigo Pottery: Hands-On Fun with Clay

One of the highlights for us at Bendigo Pottery is the Clay Play area. For a small fee, kids (and adults!) can grab some clay, an apron, and a set of tools, and get stuck into creating their own masterpiece. There’s no right or wrong, which makes it perfect for little ones who just want to squish and mould, as well as older kids and parents who might like to try coiling a pot or sculpting a creature.

I roll up my sleeves and have a go too—it’s harder than it looks! But I loved the quiet focus that comes over us.

It’s messy, tactile, and surprisingly relaxing—and best of all, it gives us something to do together that doesn’t involve screens. Everyone comes away with clay on their hands and big smiles.

Watch the Experts (and Have a Go Yourself)

Next up is the pottery wheel demonstration. We watch a professional potter turn a lump of clay into a perfectly formed vase in minutes. The kids are fascinated—and after the demo, they even get to try the wheel themselves (under careful guidance).

It’s not as easy as it looks, but it is a fantastic introduction to a centuries-old skill.

There are also paint-your-own pottery sessions, where you can decorate a mug, bowl or plate and have it glazed and fired. It’s a great option for younger kids or anyone who loves colouring in and wants a lasting souvenir.

Step Back in Time at Bendigo Pottery

The site itself is full of character. You can explore the Interpretive Museum, which walks you through the history of Bendigo Pottery from its beginnings in 1858 right through to modern day.

Inside the old wood-fired kilns, there are video installations, sound effects, and displays that bring the past to life in an immersive way.

Kids can peek inside giant bottle-shaped kilns and see how pottery used to be fired before electricity took over. It’s educational, but not in a dry way—there’s enough interactivity and visual storytelling to keep even younger visitors interested.

Hidden Treasures in the Antiques Centre

Just when we think we’ve seen it all, we wander into the Antiques and Collectables Centre—and we are completely wowed. There are over 40 stalls under one roof, with everything from vintage toys and classic books to retro kitchenware, jewellery, and furniture.

It’s like a treasure hunt, and even if you’re not a collector, it’s so much fun to browse.

Artisan Studios & Creative Inspiration

Another unexpected gem is the Village of Artisans, just next to the main gallery space. Local artists and makers have set up shop in small studios, and many are happy to chat about their work.

We see glass bead-making, quilting, jewellery design, and more. It’s a great way to show kids how creativity can become a career—and it supports local talent, too.

Time for a Snack

By the time we explore everything, we are more than ready for a break. Luckily, the on-site café has us covered with hot drinks, light lunches, and the fluffiest scones.

There’s plenty of space to sit, and it’s all very family-friendly—even for prams and toddlers.

Take a Piece Home

Before leaving, we pop into the retail gallery, where you can shop for beautifully handmade ceramics in every colour and style. Whether it’s a mug, serving platter, or statement piece for your home, everything is crafted on-site.

What a lovely way to take a piece of the experience home with you.

Practical Info

Location: 146 Midland Highway, Epsom (just a short drive from Bendigo’s city centre)
Open: 10am–4pm, six days a week (closed Tuesdays)
Parking: Free, and there’s plenty of it—great for families with strollers or a car full of gear
Accessibility: The site is mostly flat and accessible, with accessible toilets available

Visiting Bendigo Pottery with Kids

Whether your kids are toddlers, tweens or teens, Bendgio Pottery has loads to offer.

We leave with clay on our clothes, a bag full of goodies, and that warm fuzzy feeling that comes from spending time together doing something a little out of the ordinary.

If you’re in the Bendigo region, don’t miss it!

Bendigo Pottery: Hands-On Fun and History in Clay

Bendigo Pottery: Hands-On Fun with Clay