Clay and Kilns: The Survival Challenge for Tile Makers in North Lincolnshire

Tessa Oldroyd, standing at a historic tile-making site in North Lincolnshire, is preserving Britain's tile-making heritage. On July 5, 2026, Oldroyd, who works at William Blyth in Barton-upon-Humber, demonstrates the traditional process of creating roof pantiles using century-old machinery.

The Tradition of Tile Making

At William Blyth, clay sourced from the Humber Estuary is transformed into tiles using a machine affectionately known as "the stupid." This machine, dating back to the 1920s, represents a long-standing tradition where clay is extruded into tiles and baked in coal-fired kilns. Oldroyd, the only woman among 24 workers, expresses pride in maintaining this historical craft, stating, "I’m glad to be actually making history."

Tile production in the UK has roots dating back to the Romans, with significant developments occurring in the eastern regions during the 12th century. By the early 1700s, pantiles had become common, particularly in East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, leading to the establishment of several traditional manufacturers.

Challenges Facing Traditional Tile Makers

Despite their rich history, traditional tile makers like William Blyth face significant challenges. Rising energy prices, increased labor costs, and competition from cheaper imports have put immense pressure on these companies. For instance, the historic Denby Pottery shut down operations earlier this month, highlighting the difficulties in the ceramics sector.

Noble Francis, economics director at the Construction Products Association, notes that energy costs can account for up to a third of manufacturing expenses. "We’ve seen increases in industrial energy prices, and that’s only going to make it more difficult over the next six to 12 months for ceramics manufacturers," he warns.

Modernization and the Future of Tile Production

While William Blyth continues its traditional practices, a contrasting future is emerging at Wienerberger’s factory in Broomfleet, East Yorkshire. The company is currently constructing the world’s first fully electric tunnel kiln for clay roof tiles, backed by a £37 million investment, including £4.3 million in government funding. This modern facility aims to reduce carbon emissions significantly, cutting 4,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

According to Emilande Renard, a senior engineer at Wienerberger, this innovation marks a pivotal shift towards sustainable production methods. The new kiln will utilize electricity generated on-site through solar energy, positioning Wienerberger as a leader in modern tile manufacturing.

The contrasting approaches of traditional and modern tile production reflect the ongoing evolution in the industry as manufacturers adapt to economic pressures and changing consumer preferences.