'Wetheriggs Country Pottery'

Clifton Dykes, Penrith, CA10 2DH. Tel 01768 892733.
email: info@wetheriggs-pottery.co.uk

Location : Eamont Bridge
Map - Ordnance Survey - NY 554263

Towards the end of the 17th century, bricks became the most common building material in use. The pottery at Clifton Dykes was established about 1855, and was originally a brick, tile and pipe works, supplied by a rich seam of red clay at Clifton Dykes, and coal from the pits of West Cumbria. Almost all the wares produced were for local use.

During the 1860's with the arrival of the Schofields from the North East some innovations occurred, and Wetheriggs started producing house wares. After the second World War, a new market emerged for decorative wares, as people brightened up their homes. The pottery became a popular visitor destination.

The Beehive Kiln ceased to be used in 1960's when the railway closed, and coal could not be easily transported to the site. Wetheriggs was scheduled as a National Industrial Monument in 1973 to preserve it for posterity, as it is the UK's only remaining steam-powered pottery. It is still a fully working pottery in full time production of traditional and contemporary earthenware and stoneware - still handmade as they have been for over 140 years.

The Blunger

Back in the old days, the Wetheriggs clay was dug from a pit across the road, and left out during the winter so that the action of frost would break it down. It was tipped into the turning blunger (above) and mixed with water from the reservoir (todays newt pond). The beam of the blunger was turned by the steam engine, and the movement caused the stones and sand in the clay to sink. The slurry containing clay was then channelled into settling pans, the water drained off, and the clay left to dry out. More information about the various historical processes can be obtained from information panels around the site.

Visitors may see the old workings, the restored Steam Engine and the potters at work. There are pottery and craft shops, and a tea-room. In the 7 acres of beautiful surroundings, there is much to observe of the natural world; there is a newt pond, and a collection of rare pigs. There are children's play areas, and a 'have a go' area for children to throw their own pots, or paint models.

Open daily, 10am - 5.30pm except Christmas holidays. Free admission.

For more information see www.wetheriggs-pottery.co.uk.