Your Complete Guide to Discovering the Open Studios around Pocklington in May

Ever get that feeling on a weekend where the usual trip to the cinema or a wander around the shops just doesn't cut it? Sometimes, a bit of an adventure is in order. Imagine a sort of creative treasure hunt, where you get to peek behind the scenes into the workshops of talented people, see how amazing things are made, and maybe even find something completely unique to take home. That’s exactly what’s on offer at the Pocklington Area Open Studios, a brilliant event that turns a weekend into a road trip of discovery. It’s a chance to meet the makers, hear their stories, and see creativity in action, all scattered across a beautiful part of the country.

What's the big deal about Pocklington Area Open Studios?

Think of it less like a quiet, tiptoeing-around art gallery and more like a massive, friendly, open-house party for art lovers. On Saturday, 16th May and Sunday, 17th May 2026, around 30 local artists and makers are throwing open their studio doors to everyone, and the best part is, it’s completely free to visit. This will be the 15th time it has run, and it’s bigger and better than ever. The event runs from 10am to 5pm on both days, giving everyone plenty of time to explore.

The variety is what makes the Pocklington Area Open Studios so special. It’s not just one type of art. Visitors can expect to see and buy work from a whole range of disciplines. It's a fantastic showcase of the talent tucked away in this part of Yorkshire. You might find:

• Paintings that could be the perfect centrepiece for a living room.

• Hand-crafted ceramics, from mugs to magnificent sculptures.

• Intricate textiles and beautiful jewellery.

• Stunning sculptures and clever wood-working.

• A striking photograph that captures a perfect moment.

Since it first started, PAOS has built a solid reputation for its high standard of craftsmanship. This isn’t just a hobbyists’ market; it’s a showcase of seriously talented professionals who pour their hearts into their work. Information from the organisers, including artist Heather Burton Artist, points to a weekend buzzing with creativity and quality.

A proper creative road trip around Pocklington

The event is cleverly spread out across the lovely market town of Pocklington and its surrounding villages, all within about an eight-mile radius. This setup is what turns it into a real adventure. Visitors are encouraged to create their own art trail, hopping in the car from one studio to the next. One minute you could be in a converted barn watching a potter at their wheel, and the next you might be in a garden studio chatting to a painter about their latest landscape. It’s a brilliant way to explore the local area while hunting for creative gems.

This is what makes buying something at PAOS so different from picking something up in a shop. It’s about the story. Co-founder and ceramicist Barbara Wood explained it perfectly.

“It has developed into one of the premier events of its kind in the county.”

“People like to buy directly from the creators and understand the provenance of something that will be unique to them and their home.”

Knowing who made your new favourite coffee mug, where their studio is, and what inspired them makes that mug feel a bit more special every time you use it. This personal connection is at the core of the whole Pocklington Area Open Studios experience.

From a small gathering to a must-see event

Like many of the best things, PAOS started small. When it was launched back in May 2011, it featured just 12 artists in five different venues. The goal was simple: to celebrate the amazing creativity in the area while keeping the event small enough for visitors to enjoy without feeling rushed. Fast forward to 2026, and the event has grown to involve 30 creatives across 19 venues. That growth is proof of its success. It’s even more special that some of the original artists from 2011 will still be taking part, showing the strong sense of community behind the event.

Word has certainly got out. The Pocklington Area Open Studios now attracts art lovers from all over the country, who plan a whole weekend away around the trail. Its reputation has been built on the quality of the work and the unique, friendly atmosphere. Planning a route in advance is a good idea.

Getting nosey and meeting the makers

Let's be honest, one of the best bits about an event like this is getting to be a bit nosey. Seeing where the magic happens is fascinating. The PAOS weekend gives everyone a pass to step into these normally private creative spaces, see works-in-progress, and maybe even spot the tools and materials used to make the finished pieces on display. It’s a chance to ask the artists questions. How long did that take to make? What gave you the idea for that sculpture? Where did you learn to do that?

This direct contact is invaluable. Visitors can see previews of the artists' newest collections before they go anywhere else. And if they find an artist whose style they absolutely love, they can buy directly from them, often at studio prices. There’s also the opportunity to discuss commissions – perhaps a painting of a favourite view or a piece of jewellery in a specific colour. Many of the artists also run their own workshops and courses, and the open studios weekend is the perfect time to find out more.

How to plan your Pocklington art adventure

Getting organised is the key to making the most of the weekend. The first port of call should be the official website. There, visitors will find all the details about the 2026 PAOS, including a list of every artist taking part and, crucially, a comprehensive map showing where all 19 studios are located. Brochures will also be available, and following the event on Instagram (@pocklingtonareaopenstudios) is a great way to see sneak peeks of the work that will be on show.

With map in hand, you can plot a route that takes in the artists or art forms that most appeal. Or, you could just pick a starting point and see where the country lanes take you. Either way, it promises to be a weekend filled with inspiration and creativity. Here are the essential details in one place:

• Event: Pocklington Area Open Studios (PAOS)

• Dates: Saturday 16th May & Sunday 17th May 2026

• Time: 10am – 5pm daily

• Cost: Free entry