Beacons Pottery

Libanus

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Welcome to Beacons Pottery

Beacons Pottery is Jess Rayner’s working studio at Bryn Bolgoed near Libanus, around ten minutes from Brecon. From the farm, visitors can look towards Pen y Fan while learning to make something with clay. The studio gives a creative pause in a visit to Bannau Brycheiniog, as well as an activity to plan alongside walks and time in Brecon.

Jess offers one-to-one wheel-throwing lessons, a two-person throwing experience, small-group handbuilding workshops and longer courses. A beginner can start with a simple form on the wheel or use hands and basic tools to build and decorate a piece. Those with some experience can develop their skills through the guidance offered in the chosen session. Workshop themes change through the year, so the pieces being made depend on the current programme.

Group workshops are designed to give each participant individual support; the regular one-off sessions are generally two or three hours with no more than eight people. Materials, firing and glazing are arranged after the making session, so visitors do not normally take finished pottery away on the day. Collection or delivery comes later, according to the session booked.

Clay is messy, and aprons are provided. The studio is wheelchair accessible, but there is not currently a wheelchair-accessible toilet; discuss any access needs with Jess before choosing a session. Age limits differ between lesson and workshop formats, so check the conditions for the particular activity before bringing younger participants.

Beyond the lessons, Jess makes hand-carved ceramics available through the online shop and at events. A visit to the studio connects hands-on craft with the landscape around Libanus, and the range of session formats gives solo visitors, pairs and groups different ways to take part.