Fun, discovery and adventure for everyone! Wheal Martyn Clay Works is bursting at the seams with tools, machinery and real stories of Cornwall’s largest mining industry.
Follow the historic trail to discover the processes and follow in the footsteps of the clay workers, explore historic buildings such as the crib hut, pan kiln, flat rod tunnel and much more. You will see Cornwall's largest working waterwheel, industry tools and artefacts and vintage commercial vehicles including a locomotive. At the peak of the site you'll stand back in awe as you discover a spectacular view of a modern working clay pit with monstrous machines at work and if you are lucky you may even get to see blasting in the pit!
Dig deep and discover the special ingredient in our everyday lives that still shapes Cornwall and our world today - china clay. Check out the original Victorian clay works, bursting at the seams with tools and machinery; discover the real-life stories and tales of the industry which shaped the landscape and lives of people in mid-Cornwall; and find out about Cornwall's largest mining industry, past and present.
Children's adventure trail and play area.
Find the flat rod tunnel, secret drum set dressing up area, tug-o-war, and quiz sheets.
Woodland trails.
Sensory trail and benches.
Large print and easy-read guides, BSL clips.
Guided tours.
Dogs welcome.
Enjoy creative family workshops, and activities or explore one of our fun seasonal trails. Try your hand at pottery painting, clay sculpting, and other crafts. Be sure to visit the Roger Preston Gallery where you'll find an inspiring programme of changing exhibitions.
Open Daily: 10:00 - 17:00 Winter Opening: 10:00 - 16:00
Wheal Martyn Clay Works
Wheal Martyn, Carthew, St Austell, Cornwall, PL26 8XG, England
Tel: 01726850362
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last updated: 08:24 30/06/2026
