Henry Watson’s Potteries, now this is what I call a family business, now in its 7th successive generation! They have an excellent shop at the pottery, selling their very recognisable ‘Charlotte Watson’s Country Collection’ and the ‘Original Suffolk Collection’.
You’ll have seen their products all over the country (I know, because I have) but you may not know that are all made here in sunny Suffolk. Still based in a small pottery on the A143 Bury to Diss road, they typify traditional Suffolk kitchenware as well as having evolved into more contemporary styles now too.
They make everything you’ll need in kitchen ceramics and terracotta, such as crocks, jars, teapots, clocks and other storage containers, as well as a huge range of homeware decorative items & gifts. You’ll recognise them as soon as you see them.
They make great gifts (most come gift-boxed) as well as practical stuff for your own home. I’ve had a few bits and pieces for many years now, as I’m sure most Suffolk homes have!
They have an intriguing Red Brick ‘Downdraft’ Kiln, which is no longer in use since an unfortunate fire in the 60’s destroying the whole factory. They rebuilt it without the need for the kiln, installing an electric one, but retain the original outside as a ‘feature’. You can read all about the history of the business on their website.
They have a coffee shop on site, and it’s only 25 minutes or so from Woodfarm Barns. A growing number of our guests are visiting them, often taking in Wyken Vineyards and Thornham Walks on the same day.
The history of Henry Watson Potteries
Established all the way back in 1800, Henry Watson Potteries has earned a commanding reputation for producing some of the highest quality handcrafted pottery in Britain. No small surprise that we’re incredibly proud to have such an export based here in Suffolk. Owing their reputation to durability and style, the pottery produced by Henry Watson is characterised by a perfect blending of style and substance. This commitment to excellence has remained central to the business, with teams continuing to use the same techniques that the founders utilised over two centuries ago. Indeed, the use of incredibly high temperatures in the construction process to ensure lasting quality is something that has enabled the business to grow a number of loyal customers over quite literally hundreds of years
In many ways, Henry Watson Potteries is a piece of national history that can be discovered quite conveniently when visiting Suffolk.
Based in a region renowned for pottery production, Henry Watson Potteries has a dedicated Suffolk Collection that is made of popular kitchenware items. Containing all of the essentials, the collection features teapots, storage jars and utensil holders. Reminiscent of the chic designs of the 20th century, the Suffolk Collection is distinctly classic in style and makes for the perfect gift if you’re thinking of bringing back some gifts from your holiday in Suffolk.
In addition to the Suffolk Collection, Henry Watson Potteries also produces teacups, pie dishes and bowls. All constructed with the same techniques as their local range, these products will be firmly at home in just about any kitchen.
It should be noted that as much as the firm remains dedicated to tradition, it’s moving fantastically with the times. Their incredible commitment to sustainability and relying on local suppliers wherever possible, for example, reveals how Henry Watson Potteries is a business that will be every bit as successful in the 21st century.
Last Updated on April 25, 2023 by Ollie Pearson