A animated line drawing showing the preparation for making tea in a clay cup, saucer and teapot. This is a moving image showing the movement of clay.

 CLAY 1A is a new visitor attraction opening in 2028 in Ipswich. CLAY 1A will invite you to explore the extraordinary in your everyday as visitors take a journey of discovery and celebration through objects made of clay; from bricks and pipes to cooking pots, crockery, decorative objects and artworks.

A NEW RESOURCE FOR IPSWICH

CLAY 1A aims to further develop Ipswich’s cultural offer and to support the town’s regeneration.

Community focus groups and events throughout 2025 have helped to shape CLAY 1A’s vision.

This is a black and white photo of Ipswich mariner. This is one of the earliest pictures showing 1A Wherry Quay.

By combining history, creativity and hands-on engagement, the project will educate, inspire and delight people of all ages and backgrounds. 

Andrew Comben, Chief Executive of Britten Pears Arts, Aldeburgh

The vision for CLAY 1A is wonderfully original. With clay at its heart – a material with so many creative associations from the ancient to the contemporary – there is an opportunity to inspire and engage visitors from all generations.   

Andrew Nairne OBE, Director of Kettle’s Yard, University of Cambridge 

  • This is a view from Ipswich Mariner of the CLAY 1A future building

    Proposed view of CLAY 1A on the historic Ipswich marina

  • A birds eye photograph of the Tea party event, hosted at CLAY 1A building in Ipswich

    CLAY 1A’s community tea party, October 2025

  • Clay cups and saucers on a tea table for the CLAY 1A event, hosted in the CLAY 1A building (Ipswich).

    Cups and saucers made for CLAY 1A by local artists

  • A photograph of Crispin Kelly with guests at the teaparty event in CLAY 1A's building in Ipswich.

    Guests at CLAY 1A’s community tea party, October 2025