Behind The Enduring Appeal of Quintessential British Brand, Burleigh Pottery
With its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless, iconic designs, Burleigh has been a leading manufacturer of high-quality ceramics in the UK and beyond for over 170 years. Join us as we explore what makes Burleigh the perfect addition to your wedding gift list.
Read time:
5 minutes
Founded in 1851 in Stoke-on-Trent, Burleigh is more than just a pottery — it's a piece of history. It's renowned for its enduring, iconic designs, with a heritage deeply rooted in traditional British craftmanship. In fact, it is the last pottery in the world to use underglaze tissue printing.
At The Wedding Present Company, we adore Burleigh’s authentic patterns and are honoured to serve freshly brewed coffee in the brand’s signature Asiatic Pheasant mugs during our showroom appointments. We spoke with Burleigh's Brand Manager, Kate Dundas, to learn more about their beautiful pottery collection and why it makes the perfect addition to your wedding registry.
How did Burleigh start?
We have been crafting high-quality ceramics in England for over 170 years. Recognised for our dedication to fine craftsmanship and traditional manufacturing, we have been making our iconic blue and white ceramics, using the same techniques for generations. We are the last pottery in the world to use the traditional and timeless skill of underglaze tissue printing, which is an English process dating back over 200 years.
Where do you take inspiration from?
With a great archive spanning the last two centuries – our inspirations are often drawn from here; coupled with nature and capturing flora and fauna designs, intertwined with elements of industry.
"Burleigh is an amalgamation of each and every aspect of our heritage, beautifully crafted on to timeless tableware."
What's your favourite product to date?
One of my favourite products has got to be the Octagonal bowl – such an fascinating shape and it always looks so striking on a tablescape. I also love the versatility of our tankard jugs – just as beautiful for fresh juices at the breakfast table, or for seasonal blooms from the garden.
Credit: Burleigh/Juana Pepa
What are your future plans for Burleigh?
Burleigh is handmade for a reason; we’ve been proudly making earthenware since 1851, based at Middleport Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent since 1889. We will continue producing tableware as we always have done, but we have some exciting collaborations to be unveiled very soon, taking Burleigh into new categories within the home. We also look forward to nurturing our relationships with existing collaborators and likeminded designers to continue to tell the stories of Burleigh Pottery, and the story of our great history.
What is your favourite room in your house and why?
My favourite room in my home is the kitchen – it is always busy, where people gather; the hub of the home if you like. It is where we start and finish our day with a nutritious meal, but equally, a place where we do activities with our children such as baking, a place for connection and often experimentation with food and new recipes. They say the kitchen is the heart of the home and it certainly rings true for my family.
What is it about the Wedding Present Company that stands out to you?
We have worked with The Wedding Present Company for a number of years now, and we trust their service in providing gifts for their couples that they will treasure forever. A treasure trove of beautiful brands and tailored advice, all with genuine warmth from experts in their field. We are proud to be represented by WPC.
What do you like buying as wedding presents?
Always Burleigh, of course! The perfect gift to begin a lifetime collection for the newlyweds. I usually opt for a matching set of 2 mugs or cups and saucers, or often a teapot, which is perfectly presented in a giftbox.
Discover expertly crafted pottery from Burleigh through our curated online range or book your appointment in our London showroom to explore the brand's collection and thousands of unique wedding gifts in person.
Whether you have a question about Burleigh products, need help with creating your wedding gift list, or simply want to discuss your gift list ideas, our Wedding List Advisors and team are always happy to help.
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