Poole Pottery has been creating distinctive ceramics since 1873, becoming one of Britain’s most recognized pottery brands. Though commercial production has moved, the Poole Pottery heritage lives on through the historic factory site and ongoing community connections. Poole Pottery is famous for distinctive glazes, Art Deco designs, and mid-century modern patterns collected worldwide. The pottery’s evolution mirrors changing tastes from Victorian majolica through Jazz Age geometry to contemporary studio pottery. Collectors prize vintage Poole pieces while contemporary makers continue the tradition. The brand represents Dorset’s creative industries and craft heritage. Though the factory tours are no longer available, Poole Pottery’s legacy remains visible in museums, antique shops, and private collections. The pottery symbolizes how local craftsmanship achieved international recognition, putting Poole on the map for design excellence and ceramic innovation.
Photo by N Chadwick from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Poole Pottery
Location
Photo Gallery
Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more places within 10km
Poole Museum (Waterfront Museum)
Maritime heritage museum on Poole Quay exploring town's history from Iron Age to present.
Scaplen's Court Museum
Poole's oldest building - remarkably preserved Grade I listed medieval merchant's house from 1500.
St. James' Church, Poole
13th-century parish church with Victorian Gothic features and maritime heritage.
RNLI Poole Lifeboat Museum
RNLI museum celebrating 200 years of lifeboat heritage with historic boats and rescue stories.
Poole Lighthouse
Contemporary arts center with concert hall, theatre, cinema, and galleries near Poole Quay.
Poole Customs House
Georgian Grade II listed customs building from 1813 on historic Poole Quay.