Wetheriggs Country Pottery
(See also Clifton)
Set in seven acres of countryside, Wetheriggs Country Pottery is unusual in that it is the only steam-powered pottery still in operation in Britain. Visitors can view the steam engine, see examples of early pottery, watch potters at work using traditional handmade methods, and learn about the history of pottery. There is a studio where visitors may try their skills at pottery making.
The pottery first opened in 1855 as a brick, tile, and pipe works, utilizing the red clay in the area. Coal came from western Cumbria via the railway and was used to fire up a beehive kiln, no longer in operation. In the 1860's production was expanded to include house wares.
English Heritage awarded Wetheriggs Country Pottery the status of ‘Scheduled Industrial Monument’. It is a popular tourist attraction.
The pottery is located at Clifton Dykes, 2 miles off the A6, south of Penrith, CA10 2DH.
Tel. 01768 892733
Website: www.wetheriggs-pottery.co.uk
Open: Easter-end Oct, 10am-5.30pm; Nov-Easter, 10am-4.30pm
Free admission; shop and tearoom
Note: Please check opening times and dates before visiting in case of changes.
Photos courtesy of Graeme Dougal
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