The Poly

The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (known affectionately as The Poly) has been encouraging innovation and culture for over 175 years and is an important cultural hub in Cornwall. A live arts venue, arts cinema, gallery, community pottery centre and makers guild, The Poly is set in a beautiful historic venue in the heart of Falmouth, Cornwall. 

Based in an iconic listed building, they’re dedicated to promoting engagement in the arts, sciences and Cornish history through film, live events, exhibitions, talks, community pottery and workshops. 

The Poly is a thriving Falmouth-based charity, promoting engagement in the arts, sciences and Cornish history through film, live events, exhibitions, lectures and workshops. The Poly’s roots are in artistic and technological innovation and local industry. It is the proud guardian of locally, nationally and internationally significant collections of heritage archives and the works of Henry Scott Tuke.

The ground floor gallery concentrates on a varied collection of contemporary arts and crafts, changing up the displays on a weekly basis so visitors can always discover something new. 

On the second floor, the main gallery is a larger space with its own bar, making it a sought-after venue for concerts, shows and celebratory exhibitions. Serving up pre-show drinks and snacks, Solskinn Coffee Haus and Cocktail bar, on the first floor, is a bright and inviting space that regularly plays host to intimate talks, workshops and film club screenings. 

Learn about Falmouth’s fascinating past in the Chellew Room which is home to numerous archive research materials. Browse their curated collection of contemporary arts and crafts produced by locals, including jewellery and creative ceramics. Be entertained and informed through their films, talks and live theatre. And take part in something creative with their pottery workshops and numerous art exhibitions.