Our Staff Experience Corris Caverns
Published on 2023-08-16
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By Hammy@Trefeddian
Part Two - Corris Café and Craft Units
All the excitement of our morning had worked up a huge appetite and so we headed for Corris Café in the centre of everything. A bright, light and airy space with the option of sitting outside on a nice day. Quiche of the Day was our chosen dish and we were not disappointed. Our lunch was delicious and, most importantly, filled us up ready for the last part of our day.
It was a good job we’d had such a hearty lunch because, otherwise, a tour of the deli next door would have made us ravenous! Packed with local products, Welsh food and drink, this will definitely be revisited to stock up on Christmas goodies. A member of staff explained that a lot of the products are used in the café - the menu is even marked to indicate which items, so you can try before you buy. What a fab idea!
It was now time for the pièce de résistance - the craft workshops. Celebrating their 40th anniversary, you can see why they have thrived over the years. It’s not just about what they make and sell - it’s the passion that is put into every single piece. Whilst we talked to the makers in each unit, it was clear that they have immense dedication, both to their work and to the people they meet on a daily basis.
The first unit we visited was Sammi Wilson Art. You may think this sounds really boring but it wasn’t! Sammi and her mum have created some wonderful and unique pieces of artwork, embroidery and photography which are awe-inspiring. Alongside this, you can purchase art equipment to take home but even better are the workshops which are starting this summer. 30-minute workshops will be held on the hour, every hour, for your little ones to design, make, write and post their own postcards - so whether they want to let their friends know what a fab holiday they're having, or just a keepsake for themselves, this is perfect for a rainy day activity.
Top tip - Book well in advance to send a postcard home
Our next stop was Agau Jewellery Studio where we both swooned in delight over the fabulous pieces. All the jewellery is designed and made on site using precious metals to create Celtic and contemporary jewellery. We were lucky enough to be shown the moulds that are used to make each wonderful piece. It was nice to see affordable items so you could treat yourself, alongside others which we will have to request from Father Christmas.
After such a lovely lunch, it was difficult not to drool when we got to the next unit - Chocablock. The aroma was immense and the goodies on offer set our hearts racing. This is no ordinary chocolate shop though. Here you can design and make your own chocolate bars or, even better, chocolate pizza. And don’t worry, if you have a food allergy or intolence, this amazing little place offers every alternative you can think of - so if you're diabetic, dairy free, gluten free or even vegan, you will be well looked after.
Eye spy - Bertie, look up and give him a wave
Our tour couldn’t get any better when we came across more delicious and tantalising bouquets at Dyfi Distillery. Our visit wasn’t too long, because we have visited previously. However, we were still treated to a little sample and a sneak peek at the distillery through the vast glass doors - as fascinating and interesting as our first visit, many moons ago.
Time was running out and unfortunately, we were unable to visit all the units, which was a real shame. It does, however, mean we will both be back again…and again…and again (we loved it here, can you tell?)
So with a little reluctance, we were thrown at the potters wheel (not literally - don’t worry!) I’m not sure why we were both so worried - we loved it and successfully made a pot each without too much chaos and mayhem. Quarry Pottery doesn't just create unique and beautiful pieces, it also offers pottery throwing lessons alongside pottery painting sessions - a fabulous keepsake to remind you of your holiday in Wales. Our tutor was very patient and we can’t wait to collect our masterpieces.
Look out for the smoking Welsh dragons
And so came the end of an awesome day. We were sad to leave, especially as we hadn't done it all.
The nicest thing about our day was how welcomed we were and how inclusive the caverns are - there is something for everyone and it is both wheelchair and pushchair friendly throughout.
Best of all, dogs are welcome (with some restrictions, including the Labyrinth and Chocablock) and I will certainly be taking mine. How could I not, when I could treat them to a Pawpuccino, doggy ice cream or doggy biscuits made on site? Plus I spied a chocolate cookie the size of a dinner plate that I am desperate to try - the diet starts tomorrow.
We both have lots to look forward to on our return visit. Becky is going to be brave and take her family on the Mine Explorers Tour. I am going to revisit the maze with my Mum, take my husband and four leggeds for a yummy lunch, and visit all the units I missed.
A massive thank you to Shirley for organising such a wonderful day and to everyone we met during the day.
Top tips - Book all activities in advance (they can get very busy), allow plenty of time for your visit, and watch out for the jets.
To find out more about Corris Caverns, and to book your visit, please click the link below.
Corris Caverns
Head over to our TikTok page to follow our day out.
