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Best Days Out Cornwall

Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Carthew, St Austell PL26 8XG
01726 850362
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Wheal Martyn is a historic site and some areas have limited access by nature. However, the Discovery Centre, shop and café are fully accessible and every effort has been made to make as many areas of the wider site as accessible as possible. If you would like more information, please call us.

About Wheal Martyn Clay Works

Dig deep and discover the special ingredient that’s helped shape Cornwall and plays a massive part in our world today – china clay!

Follow water through the historic grounds and waterwheels to learn how china clay is mined and used in so many products you use every day. A unique indoor and outdoor museum, Wheal Martyn tells the story of Cornwall’s ‘secret’ yet global billion-pound clay industry and its people.

Immerse yourself in the Victorian clay works, bursting at the seams with tools, machinery, artefacts and stories.  Explore the tunnel, woodland nature trails, let off steam in the play area and discover spectacular views of modern clay mining in the working pit.  Afterwards refuel in our café, offering delicious homemade delights.

Along with a year-round programme of events and exhibitions, Wheal Martyn offers something for everyone, including your dog!

Opening hours: 10.00am-4.00pm (winter) and 10.00am-5.00pm (summer).

Cornwall Residents Pass

From 4 November 2024 to 30 March 2025, residents of Cornwall can purchase annual admission to Wheal Martyn for a discounted rate of just £11.50 per adult and £5.00 per child (those under 5 go free).

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Full programme of events

Wheal Martyn Clay Works runs a full programme of events and exhibitions throughout the year - some of these are featured below. Visit their website for full information.

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What Visitors Say

"Excellent day out very interesting . Lots to see both inside and outside the viewing area over the working pit was very good with excellent views over the working pit. Some quite steep and uneven paths in some parts of the site . Would highly recommend"
"What a wonderful place to visit. A lovely walk around, informative, historic, lots to see and do. Great day out for the dog too!"
"A wonderful few hours at this real treasure. Local history and nature walks combined-something for all the family. Look out for the teddy bears and piskies. Then enjoy a cuppa using the mismatched quirky cups and teapots with a delicious cake too. Can't recommend it enough."

Wheal Martyn Clay Works News

History comes alive through immersive theatre at Wheal Martyn

History will be brought to life in a series of immersive workshops and performances by popular theatre company Live History at Wheal Martyn Clay Works from Tuesday 30 May to Thursday 1 June. Live History […]

Fun for all the family at Wheal Martyn this summer

Enjoy Wheal Martyn’s jam-packed new summer programme, including a variety of creative drop-in and self-led activities suitable for the whole family on selected dates throughout the month.

Wheal Martyn Clay Works Events

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