
Bendigo Pottery
Australia's oldest working pottery, offering a rich history, a vast antiques centre, and hands-on creative workshops.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

Bendigo Pottery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Australia's oldest working pottery, offering a rich history, a vast antiques centre, and hands-on creative workshops.
"The Antiques & Collectables Centre is a must-visit, boasting an extraordinary range of beautiful old things."

🎯 Explore the Antiques First
Don't miss the antiques centre; it's a highlight with an amazing collection of vintage treasures!
🏺 Book Workshops in Advance
Hands-on pottery classes fill up fast, especially during holidays. Book your wheel throwing or decorating session early.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antiques & Collectables Centre
Discover an extraordinary collection of beautiful old things, often described as the best under one roof in Australia/NZ. A treasure trove for vintage lovers.

Pottery Workshops
Get hands-on with wheel throwing or decorating sessions. Perfect for all ages to unleash their inner artist and create a unique souvenir.

Live Pottery Demonstrations
Witness the magic of clay being transformed on the wheel. A fascinating and educational experience for both kids and adults.

Historic Site Exploration
Explore Australia's oldest working pottery, soaking in the rich history and admiring both classic and contemporary handcrafted pieces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Treasures
Embrace the History & Antiques
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Antiques First
Don't miss the antiques centre; it's a highlight with an amazing collection of vintage treasures!
🏺 Book Workshops in Advance
Hands-on pottery classes fill up fast, especially during holidays. Book your wheel throwing or decorating session early.
🚗 Watch for Potholes
The driveway can be a bit rough. Drive carefully as you enter the site.
🛍️ Look for Sales
Keep an eye out for pottery sales, sometimes offering significant discounts on beautiful handcrafted pieces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Antiques First
Don't miss the antiques centre; it's a highlight with an amazing collection of vintage treasures!
🏺 Book Workshops in Advance
Hands-on pottery classes fill up fast, especially during holidays. Book your wheel throwing or decorating session early.
🚗 Watch for Potholes
The driveway can be a bit rough. Drive carefully as you enter the site.
🛍️ Look for Sales
Keep an eye out for pottery sales, sometimes offering significant discounts on beautiful handcrafted pieces.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
There's so much to see, from history to antiques and workshops. Plan for a good few hours to explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Bendigo Pottery for its extensive and fascinating Antiques & Collectables Centre, described as one of the best in Australia. The hands-on workshops and live demonstrations are also popular highlights, offering creative fun for all ages. However, some recent reviews mention disappointment due to flood damage affecting museum operations, and the condition of the driveway has been noted as a minor drawback.
"Came here years ago and it was great. However since then this place has almost closed up. The driveway in is the clue, full of potholes. That said, there is a few things to see and do which isn’t pottery."
Benjamin Sangster
"Very glad to have squeezed in a visit here. I was interested in the history of the pottery manufacture but could only see parts of workshop as the site is still flood-effected. The antiques area more than made up for it, WOW. Best collection of beautiful old things I've ever seen under one roof in Aus/NZ—even better than The Mill in Castlemaine. Extraordinary range, very well presented and some very keen pricing. I needed to do some creative packing to take some treasures back to NZ the next day. Highly recommended if you love the quality and style of hand-made, old things."
Rachel Rose
"My family visited this beautiful pottery that had a lot of things to see and learn about. There was live viewing of how the objects are made out of clay in the wheel which was really nice for the kids too see and learn about. There was an antique shop there too which was interesting to look at as the objects were quite intriguing. Staff were so helpful and charming."
DigitalLIFE of SmartMINDS
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bendigo Pottery is located at 146 Midland Hwy, Epsom, just outside Bendigo. If you're driving, it's easily accessible. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, there is parking available on-site. Be mindful of the driveway condition, as some visitors have noted potholes.
While having a car offers the most flexibility, you can check local taxi services or ride-sharing options from Bendigo CBD. It's advisable to confirm availability beforehand.
Generally, historical sites aim for accessibility. It's best to contact Bendigo Pottery directly to confirm specific accessibility details for all areas, especially if there have been recent weather impacts.
The most convenient way is by car, taking approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Melbourne to Bendigo and then arrange local transport to the pottery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main areas, including the antiques centre and shop, is generally free. However, specific workshops or tours may require separate bookings and fees.
Opening hours can vary, especially with restoration or weather impacts. It's always best to check the official Bendigo Pottery website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Keep an eye out for special sales events, like the 50% off pottery sales mentioned online. Workshop prices are usually all-inclusive.
It's highly recommended to book workshops in advance, as they can sell out, particularly during peak times like school holidays.
The Antiques & Collectables Centre is a significant part of the Bendigo Pottery experience and is generally accessible without a separate entry fee, though specific event pricing may apply.
🎫 🏺 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic site, browse an extensive antiques collection, watch live pottery demonstrations, participate in hands-on workshops, and shop for new pottery pieces.
Yes, Bendigo Pottery offers fantastic hands-on workshops for kids during school holidays, including wheel throwing and decorating sessions.
Absolutely! You can purchase a wide range of beautiful, handcrafted pottery, from classic designs to contemporary pieces in various colours.
Established in 1858, Bendigo Pottery is Australia's oldest working pottery. It has a rich heritage of craftsmanship and has adapted over the years to include modern artistic expressions.
Yes, the Antiques & Collectables Centre is a major attraction, featuring an extraordinary range of vintage items. Some reviews also mention cafes and walking around the historical grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some visitors mention cafes on-site, suggesting you can grab a bite or a coffee while you explore. It's worth checking their current offerings.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally polite to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, rather than in dining spaces. Check with the venue for their policy.
Epsom and the wider Bendigo area offer various dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, if you wish to explore beyond the pottery site.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most public areas. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography, especially during workshops or demonstrations.
The historic buildings, the diverse collection of antiques, the pottery being made on the wheel, and the colourful new pottery ranges all offer great photo opportunities.
While you'll be busy creating, you might be able to snap a quick photo of your work in progress. It's best to ask your instructor for guidance on photography during the class.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a few hours to keep kids engaged. The variety of activities ensures there's something to hold their attention, and taking home a piece they've decorated themselves is a wonderful souvenir. Remember to book workshops in advance to secure your spot.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look out for potential pottery sales which can offer significant discounts on handcrafted items. While workshops have a cost, they are often described as all-inclusive and provide a memorable experience. Bringing your own snacks or planning a picnic can also help manage food expenses.
💖 Couples & Art Enthusiasts
It’s a perfect blend of history, art, and interactive fun. The opportunity to create something together in a workshop or find a unique vintage piece from the antiques centre makes for a memorable shared experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Antiques and Collectables
This centre is more than just a shop; it's a curated experience where you can discover everything from rustic stoneware to intricate decorative pieces. The pricing is often noted as keen, making it an attractive destination for collectors and casual browsers alike. If you're looking for unique gifts or a special piece for yourself, dedicating ample time to explore this section is highly recommended.
Hands-On Pottery Experiences
These workshops are often highlighted as a fun and messy way to unleash your inner artist. Expert guidance is provided, ensuring that even beginners can create something special to take home. Booking in advance is crucial, especially during school holidays, as these popular activities tend to fill up quickly. It's a memorable way to connect with the craft and create a lasting souvenir of your visit.
A Glimpse into History
The site showcases both the traditional methods and the modern innovations in pottery. You can often witness live demonstrations of how objects are made from clay, providing a fascinating insight into the craft. This historical context adds significant depth to the experience, making it more than just a shopping trip but a journey through Australian artisanal history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit