Menu
A Story from Humble Beginnings
Burleigh pottery’s journey began modestly in 1851, when partners Hulme and Booth established a ceramic business in the heart of the Potteries in Burslem, London. While much of their story remains undocumented, their dedication laid a successful foundation for what would become an enduring British icon.
In 1862, a new era dawned for the business when Frederick Rathbone Burgess and William Leigh took the reins. Burgess brought sharp business insight, while Leigh, having grown up in the pottery industry, understood the craft intimately. Together, their talents created a unique synergy, combining creativity and precision that set them apart from local manufacturers. Known as a kind and compassionate employer, Leigh embodied the values of worker welfare, which became an integral part of the company culture.
The Factory and the Burleigh Name
As the company flourished, they outgrew their original workspace, commissioning a purpose-built factory in 1888 along the Trent & Mersey Canal in Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent. This move established Middleport Pottery, which remains Burleigh’s home today. This facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design, became a model for factory architecture.
By 1903, the name “Burleigh” emerged, blending the founders’ surnames and symbolizing their unique collaboration. Burleigh quickly gained recognition as a mark of luxury and British design, firmly establishing its reputation on the world stage.
Craftsmanship and Legacy
In Middleport Pottery, every piece of Burleigh pottery is crafted start-to-finish by skilled artisans. “Our craftspeople,” they say, “transform raw, malleable clay into the glossy, vibrant ware you see here. When we say MADE HERE, we mean crafted onsite from start to finish, using skills passed down through generations.” The artistry and dedication of their craftspeople sustain the legacy of true British pottery.
Burleighware Patterns: Timeless Designs
Burleighware’s intricate floral and nature-inspired designs continue to add a touch of elegance to homes worldwide. The Asiatic Pheasants pattern, first produced in 1851, has become Burleigh’s signature and remains an enduring favorite. Inspired by distant lands, this delicate design is quintessentially British, equally stunning at an afternoon tea or as a striking feature in a modern home.
Over the years, the Asiatic Pheasants pattern has graced countless forms—from tea sets and dinnerware to trinket boxes and decorative items, even including historical oddities like bedpans. Although pale blue is the most iconic color, Burleigh’s artisans have reimagined the design in various hues, making it versatile for any style. The story of this pattern is one of adaptability, finding its place through changing fashions and trends, from Victorian dining tables to contemporary homes.
Regal Peacock Pattern
Another cherished pattern, the Regal Peacock, has an equally storied past. In 1913, Queen Mary admired this Eastern-inspired design, leading to its revival a century later. A master engraver meticulously re-traced the original design, dedicating over 1,900 hours to recreate it on a copper roller, which is still used today to produce pieces in black, green, and blue.
Burleigh Pottery: The Last of Its Kind
Every Burleigh piece proudly declares “Made in England,” a mark of authenticity that has become rare in the ceramics industry. While many pottery companies have outsourced production over recent decades, Burleigh remains committed to local craftsmanship. Their “Made in England” label signifies not only origin but also a pledge to uphold the tradition and artistry that have defined British ceramics for centuries.
Conclusion
Burleigh’s iconic designs bring a sense of heritage, elegance, and quality into homes across the world. Rooted in history and created with care, each piece from Burleigh continues to celebrate the timeless beauty of British craftsmanship amidst an ever-evolving world.
