Walk ins only except for party bookings of 6+ painters. If we happen to be busy we will take a mobile number and give you a call when a table is free. During school holidays we do have a quick turn around of tables so even when busy the wait isn’t very long. Plenty of delicious coffee shops or areas to hang out near by until your call!

What can I expect when I get to the door?

When you arrive at Rainbows please be patient and wait at the entrance to be served. Please browse the items without touching and if you have children with you we kindly ask that you ensure they ‘look with their eyes and not their hands!’.

How much does it cost?

The cost depends on the item you choose to paint. Prices for both sitting in and take away start at £14.00. We no longer have a studio fee, the price you see is the price you pay.

How long does it take?

On average about one and a half to two hours but it can take longer. Younger children tend to take less time than older ones. You are welcome to stay as long as you like.

What if I don’t finish my piece?

You are welcome to return mid week only at a cost of £5.00 studio fee. Exc half term week. Pay for your item on the day and return to finish within 2 months.

When will my item be ready?

It takes 1 week to glaze and fire your pieces. If you are in a rush then please ask and we will try to turn your item around earlier.

Do you post?

Yes all items are extremely well packaged for safe delivery. It is very rare for an item to be broken in transit but should this happen we will offer a replacement or full refund of the amount paid.

Are the paints safe and washable?

Definitely, all the paints are washable and we use non-toxic paints and glaze.

Can you use the items in the dishwasher and microwave?

No. Due to our bisque being earthenware we do not recommend using your item in a dishwasher or microwave. Plus the items can be very hot to the touch.

Do you sell gift vouchers?

Yes we sell £5, £10 & £20 gift vouchers. Please note our gift vouchers need to be collected from the studio or we can post out to you for the charge of 1st class recorded post.

Do you sell drinks and snacks?

Yes, we offer a good range of hot and cold drinks plus a small selection of snacks.

Do you accept party bookings?

Yes we take party bookings for 6+ painters up to 14 around our Party Table depending on ages. We can accommodate larger numbers by request. Evening bookings are also available for 10+ painters. Please see our party guidelines on our party page for more info.

Can I Paint at Home?

Absolutely! We have always provided a Take Away Paint Party kit but now we have the extra option of Pottery Painting at Home for everyone whether you are wanting to paint by yourself or with a group. Please see our Party packages or our Shop for more info. We introduced a Pottery Painting at Home option during lockdown and it has proved popular so we shall certainly be keeping this. Prices are the same for sitting in and taking away and you have the bonus of a whole week to paint!

Do you accept card payment?

Yes we do. Please note we prefer card rather than cash.

Are you accessible?

Wheelchair accessibility.

We have a small step at the front door that measures 7.5cm high, and the doorway is 87cm wide. A portable door ramp is available at the entrance. Please knock or call beforehand and we will assist.

Unfortunately our toilet is not accessible to wide wheelchairs due to the limitations of our building. The doorways leading to the toilet are 68cm wide, and there is a small step up into the bathroom, which measures 6.5cm high. The nearest accessible toilet is very close by (approx. 45m away) and can be accessed with a radar key, or a 40p payment by cash or card.

Disabled Parking.

Bootham Row (2 mins away) provides plenty of dedicated disabled bays.

Toilet facilities.

We have one toilet which is gender neutral.

Baby Changing.

A pull down baby changing unit is provided in bathroom.

We are a friendly bunch at Rainbows and would love to hear from you ahead of your visit if you have any access requirements. While we don’t usually take bookings we may suggest putting a table aside for you if this is helpful for meeting your access needs

Are you dog friendly?

Well behaved dogs are allowed in the studio but please call in advance.

How do I find you?

We are really easy to find, just a 2 minute walk from York Minster and just across the road from York Art Gallery. For drivers there is Bootham Row pay and display car park behind the studio or the larger Marygate car park 5mins away. Please click here for a map and directions. Rainbows is also served by great public transport and the Park and Ride service.