The Craft Pottery

If you have a bit of an arty side, (talent not required) and you need an outlet after a stressful day at work, I have the perfect solution.

The Craft Pottery is a real hidden gem in the city centre of Glasgow. A small studio on West Campbell St, they provide a peaceful setting to sit with friends or on your own and paint some pottery until your troubles melt away.

You can select a piece of hand-made pottery to paint - everything from mugs, plates, figurines and picture frames. It's all individually priced and ranges from £1 to £34, so it won't break the bank.

There's a £3 painter fee to get you started, and this covers unlimited time and paints. There are a variety of options along with sponges, stencils, stamps and other tools to create something unique.

Best of all, it's BYOB and there's no corkage fee, so you can enjoy a chilled glass of wine or beer as you paint. What could be more blissful?

Last week, I visited on a Thursday evening with my friend. She painted a ceramic seahorse and I tried my hand at a spoon holder (not entirely sure the correct term for this. Spoon rest?)

After you're done, the team will glaze and fire your pottery for you and you can come back to collect it, usually in about a week's time.

The Craft Pottery is open until 8pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. They also offer party packages and regular pottery workshops and classes. All ages are welcome, too.

For me, this was the perfect mid-week activity. Relaxing and detoxing, social and affordable - a great alternative to the pub and you get something tangible to take away at the end of it.