Our story
Discover the passion and vision behind Pottery North, dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of potters, ceramicists and glassmakers in the region. Learn about our journey, our commitment to quality, and our aspirations for the future.
The inspiration
Pottery North was founded by Northumberland-based arts' event organiser and journalist Lesley McNish, after noticing observed a gap in the region for a dedicated festival celebrating pottery, ceramics, and glass. As the founder of the award-winning art and craft events' organisation The Tin Shed, which already engages many local ceramicists, potters, and glassmakers, the idea for designated pottery fairs began to take shape a few years ago. After searching for the perfect launch venues. plans are firmly in place and bookings are open for the Northumberland Pottery and Glass Fair at Ellingham Hall and Pottery North @ The Haining in the Scottish Borders.
Support
Pottery North is proudly supported by The Tin Shed, which was recently twice awarded Best Art and Crafts Events' Organisation Northeast 2025 and 2026 in the SME annual Enterprise Awards. The Tin Shed stages numerous arts' events across Northumberland and the Scottish Borders.
Beyond annual festivals, Pottery North is also committed to hosting smaller, pop-up pottery fairs and exhibitions creating continuous opportunities for the arts' community.
Our dedicated team
Pottery North will be led by The Tin Shed's Creative Director, Lesley McNish, who has a lifelong obsession with pottery and glass. However, our true driving force is the talented potters, ceramicists, and glassmakers who participate in our events and contribute to our growing online community. Their passion and creativity are at the heart of everything we do. (Incalmo glass by Michael Hunter at Twists Glass Studio)