Seven generations later, the oldest working
pottery in Wales is still run by the Jenkins family.
The pottery industry has existed in this area from medieval times
– from the mid 18th century there were fifteen potteries
in the small village of Ewenny. Unlike their huge industrial counterparts
in Staffordshire, with their vast rows of bottle kilns, these
were small family businesses with one or two working at each pottery.
Local red clay was used to make glazed earthenware
for everyday use. Everything was local – the coal for the
kilns and the craftsmen used. The kilns were built by local stonemasons
and the potters’ wheels were made by local blacksmiths.
Horses supplied the power to grind the clay and pulled the delivery
wagons. Even the lead ore – galena – was dug from
small pits near Corntown.
Ewenny Pottery today is run by Alun and his
wife Jayne, assisted by their daughter Caitlin. The kick wheel
has been replaced by an electric wheel. The coal and wood-fired
kiln is now powered by electricity and the materials used come
from around the world, but the products are still made traditionally
on the wheel. Visitors are always welcome to visit the workshop
and showroom and may see the potter at work – they are always
happy to show children and adults their ancient craft.
Also on site is a pine showroom, with hand-made
furniture, and two cafes serving for refreshments. There is a
large car park.
Welsh Holiday Cottages
Ewenny Pottery is just under 30 miles from
our self catering holiday cottages in Pontardawe. From junction
35 of the M4 motorway, take the A48 and follow the signs for Port
Talbot. Just past McDonalds go under the bridge and turn left
at the roundabout to Ewenny. The Pottery is on the right. Car
parking is available and visitors are welcome to view the process
of production and browse in the gallery.
For alternative directions or a map use the
AA's route planner along with the holiday cottage postcode, SA8
3JQ and the Ewenny Pottery and Craft Centre postcode, CF35 5AP.
Further information may be obtained from the
Ewenny
Pottery website.
