TO most people bar historians, the traditional home of Royal Worcester Porcelain was the company’s former factory in Severn Street, where the Museum of Royal Worcester stands.

But it’s not always been like that and now a Blue Plaque has been unveiled to mark the original site of the world famous firm, which was about half a mile away alongside the River Severn.

What was then called the Warmestry House factory stood on land now occupied by Copenhagen Street car park and the Heart of England College and the plaque is fixed to a wall alongside South Quay promenade.

The project to recognise the first site of porcelain production in Worcester was a joint venture between the Museum of Royal Worcester and Worcester Civic Society and the unveiling was by BBC Antiques Roadshow expert and museum trustee John Sandon, accompanied by his father, museum patron, Henry Sandon.

Henry was actively involved in archaeological excavations on the site from 1967 onwards, when broken pieces of Worcester Porcelain, known as “wasters”, were found,  evidence of the first site of porcelain production in the city.

Sophie Heath, museum director, said: “It was a very special day to see this incredibly important site in the city's porcelain heritage recognised and marked for residents and visitors. We thank the Friends of the Museum of Royal Worcester and Worcester Civic Society for their support and efforts which have made the idea a reality.”

The Warmstry House factory was founded in 1751, by Dr John Wall and his business partners, who created a successful porcelain recipe, which didn’t crack when boiling water was poured onto it.

Worcester porcelain’s reputation for quality and excellence grew from there, with the River Severn playing an important role in the transport of raw materials, such as clay and coal, and transporting finished porcelain by boat around the world. 

Colin Millett, local historian, author and Friend of the Museum, added: “As a keen supporter of the Museum of Royal Worcester, I have been thrilled to work closely with Phil Douce, chairman of the Worcester Civic Society to bring this project to fruition. I am delighted that both Henry and John Sandon who have each contributed so much to the understanding and appreciation of Worcester Porcelain we able to join us to celebrate, alongside 70 guests, including former Royal Worcester workers and Museum Friends.”