Poly Open Day

Now’s your chance to explore Falmouth’s Community Cultural Hub and see more behind the blue doors at one of the town’s most iconic buildings! The Poly invites you to learn more about the wide range of arts, history and science activities that take place here and discover how you can get involved.

Among the activities on offer during the day, you will be able to go on a backstage tour, delve into the archives, see some of the famous Tuke paintings in the flesh, and experience an interactive showcase of science and technology – not to mention a Children’s treasure trail. Accompanying the activities will be the opportunity to learn more about what we can do for you – have your say on future plans, programming and volunteering experiences on offer.

The Poly is one of Falmouth’s longest established institutions. The Cornwall Polytechnic was formed in 1833; the inspiration of Anna Maria and Caroline, the teenage daughters of Robert Were Fox of G.C. Fox & Co - a prominent Falmouth firm of shipping agents, and joint owners of the Perran Foundry. With the encouragement of their father, the Society was formed 'To promote the useful and fine arts, to encourage industry, and to elicit the ingenuity of a community distinguished for its mechanical skill'. William IV granted the Poly royal patronage in 1835 but had to pay his £4 membership fee first!

Today it runs as a thriving cultural hub for the community, with over 500 members and 19,000 visits for films, theatre and arts activities every year. This special Open Day is your chance to meet the trustees, volunteers and staff that make this possible and discuss how the Poly fits into your Falmouth.