Where our story began

The Pottery Years

The Pottery YearsWhere our story began

A refined high resolution version of an original 1940s image of William Potter

From a former shipyard to a working pottery

In 1946, twin brothers Charles and William Potter founded Jersey Pottery in Gorey, converting a former shipyard into a small ceramics factory. With pottery production having been absent from Jersey for decades, they brought in experienced craftspeople to help establish the business. The early pieces were often individually made and decorated, with colourful finishes and intricate gold detailing. Although the business began by serving the local market, demand soon grew, with pottery being exported to Britain and further afield.

A refined high resolution version of an image of the original 1950s Jersey Pottery building

A new family at the reigns

By the early 1950s, changing market conditions and increased competition had put the business under pressure. In 1954, Clive and Jessie Jones bought Jersey Pottery for £5,500, taking a chance on a business they believed had potential.

A refined high resolution version of an original 1950s image of children watching ceramic production at Jersey Pottery

Opening the doors

Rather than keeping the manufacturing process behind closed doors, the family took the unusual step of inviting visitors into the working factory. Tourists could watch the pottery being made, from shaping and decorating to glazing and firing, before browsing the finished pieces. The idea transformed the visitor experience with Jersey Pottery becoming a destination in its own right.

A refined high resolution version of an original 1960 image of the gardens at Jersey Pottery

Growing beyond the factory

As the business recovered, new designs and products were introduced to appeal to changing tastes. Plans for the site also grew. In the early 1960s, Jessie helped create the gardens, giving visitors another reason to linger. That same period saw the opening of a small coffee bar, planting the seeds of the hospitality business that would eventually become JP Restaurants.

A refined high resolution version of an original 1940s image of production at Jersey Pottery

The story continues

The combination of pottery, gardens and hospitality helped turn Jersey Pottery into one of the Island’s best-known visitor attractions.

Read the next part of our journey Back to heritage page