When you simply are stuck with what to do, maybe even feeling a little stressed; bored with the mundanity. There are always ways to change the course of monotony, and perhaps step out of your comfort zone. Flying Saucers – ‘The Painting Pottery Café’. A cosy inlet welcome to all, to sit down, relax, and enjoy your time as the mood takes you. Takes you, as you paint ceramics transforming them from monotone to vividity. Situated in Hepden Bridge, Bristol, and Warminster – Flying Saucers is a sure wonder to visit.

The shop has been running for around 10 years now, holding much experience to cater to guests and curious onlookers. For if you are unsure if your needs would be met, there is a wide variety and range of pre-moulded shapes to be painted. Starting from £6.00 to £45.00, for the most elaborated moulds you could possibly fathom. £4.00 for yourself and you are in, able to explore such an interesting place. Though the fun does not end, for ‘we have a small café so you could have your cup of coffee, your cup of tea, even biscuits as you’re painting’ Shayne Hyde, a staff member of Flying Saucers, explains.

Many events are taken place at Flying Saucers, ranging from birthday parties to club groups such as brownies/guides or school trips – able to rent out the shop and it is yours for the time, a truly special experience. Though, these instances are not solely for the younger generation but instead, Flying Saucers can be enjoyed by all. ‘My youngest painter has been 21 hours old, and one of the best birthday parties we’ve done - the birthday girl was 70’, Shayne Hyde praises the diversity they receive in age and character in the shop.

Interested by now surely, Flying Saucers is open between Thursday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. However, during holidays, instead it is open from Tuesday to Saturday, using the same time intervals. Hyde expressed her opinion of wishing ‘for us to be bigger, as in more space for the pottery to be out’ due to the sheer amount that can be painted, however they ‘redecorated during lockdown’ and now the ongoing goal apparently is simply ‘stock, getting different shapes in’, to boast a further variation in choice for painters to choose from.

In simple terms, Flying Saucers is a magical shop as to which your true creative touch can let loose. For you to be able to experience such explained would be unforgettable. The environment of setting, as well as staff, really makes you feel at ease – the goal being, from Shayne Hyde, ‘to keep going, keep seeing people, and having fun’.