A bottle-shaped brick building surrounded by trees.
Rockingham Kiln, Swinton, Rotherham, South Yorkshire. © Historic England
Rockingham Kiln, Swinton, Rotherham, South Yorkshire. © Historic England

Repair Grant for Historic Kiln in Rotherham

Historic England have awarded Rotherham Council more than £77,000 to help save an important part of South Yorkshire’s industrial heritage.

The Rockingham Kiln in Swinton, near Rotherham, was once part of an internationally renowned porcelain works, producing flamboyant ornaments and dinner services for royalty and aristocracy including King William IV.   

Dating from 1815, the bottle-shaped building formed part of the Rockingham Pottery which evolved from an early works established in 1745.  

The site changed hands several times until 1806 when it was run by John Brameld and sons. They began experimenting with porcelain and, whilst not financially successful, the Rockingham Pottery became famous under the patronage of the Earl Fitzwilliam, who lived at nearby Wentworth Woodhouse. The pottery remained in business until 1842.  

Owing to its declining condition, the kiln was added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2022. Our grant of £77,528 will help fund essential repairs to the kiln, as well as enable public access so it can be enjoyed by the local community.

This elegant kiln once produced pottery that was used and admired across the world. It is a valuable part of Rotherham’s heritage and I’m proud that Historic England has been able to play a role in securing its future.

Giles Proctor Historic England