Potfest in the Pens – Penrith Spring

5th, 6th & 7th June 2026

10am – 4.30pm daily

Adults £5 / Accompanied under 16’s free

Free hands-on sessions and activities

THE ORIGINAL POTTERS’ MARKET IN THE UK, EST. 1994.

See the work of the well-established alongside the up-and-coming, in an exciting mix of the sophisticated and the raw power of the next generation, combined in a bustling artisan marketplace.

No art hype, no gallery glitz, just potters and public mixing in a down-to-earth setting. Held under cover to save us from the inclement Cumbrian weather at Skirsgill Auction Mart, Penrith.

We are glad to see the return of our ever popular, free throwing lessons, hand building workshops and demonstrations over the three days of the show – we hope you’ll roll your sleeves up and have a go!

A gallery of 2026 exhibitors is available here.

POTTERS’ COMPETITION

At each of the Potfest shows, the potters are invited to enter a piece of their work that responds to a theme.

The theme for our potters’ competition at all of the 2026 Potfest events is –

PENGUIN BOOKS – 100 MUST READ CLASSICS

Vote for your favourite on the day for a chance to win a free entry to all of the Potfest events for life with a Potfest Passport.

FAQs

Tickets

Potfest admission tickets will also be available to buy at the gate each day.

Getting there

Parking is free at the venue with accessible parking available.

Skirsgill Auction Mart, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0DN

Trade Stands

Trade stands present at the show include;
Cromartie Hobbycraft
Sedgefield Pottery Supplies
Fire your own Raku pot
See exhibitor listings under trade stands for more information

Food and drink

Hot and cold food and drinks available throughout the day.

Payment

Please be aware that a number of the exhibitors may be unable to process credit and debit card transactions so we would recommend bringing cash and/or a cheque book as an alternative. The nearest cash machine is 2 miles away in Penrith.

Access

Accessible parking is available and there is step free access throughout the venue. Please be advised that the event is held in a cattle market so the ground can be uneven in places. If you have any concerns or queries please contact us and we will endeavour to answer any questions you may have.

Dogs

Guide dogs and other well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.

To view the potters exhibiting in 2026 click here

Skirsgill Auction Mart, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0DN