Gluggle jugs, with their distinctive fish shape, have become synonymous with Dartmouth pottery. Called ‘Gluggle’ due to their characteristic ‘glug glug’ sound when poured, they were originally made in Staffordshire in the 1870s. Thomas Forester & Sons designed the unusual fish shape along with other unique designs in pottery and vases, which are they became popular household items.

Over time, the design of the jugs passed through various manufacturers, ending at Royal Winton Grimwade in the 1930s.

However, after World War II, restrictions during the war limited the amount they could make with the materials they had. Demand was still high, so they needed to find a manufacturer that could supply what they needed. Dartmouth Pottery had recently opened and did not have the same restrictions that Royal Winton Grimwade was taxed with. An association was created; Dartmouth Pottery would mold the jars ready to be decorated by Royal Winton Grimwade.

For the next 20 years, the Dartmouth Pottery partnered well with the Gluggle Jugs, and even made their own design called the Cod Fish Jug. However, this was generally regarded as a business failure due to the tendency of the tail to break. Despite this initial drawback, by 1958 Dartmouth Pottery was selling and marketing Gluggle Pitchers as their own, using the motto ‘A gurgling jug. ‘ At that time, the Britannia Royal Naval College commissioned the manufacture of a pair of jugs and presented them to the Queen and Prince Philip. As such, they became highly sought after and jars of various sizes and colors became collectibles.

Dartmouth Pottery continued to successfully produce and sell the Gluggle Jug, creating a long-standing partnership between this South Devon port and the unusual but charming fish-shaped jug. In keeping with its geographical connection, in later years Plymouth Gin commissioned the jugs to be used to advertise their drink.

In 2002, the Dartmouth Pottery closed and the manufacture of the jugs moved, more than 100 years after its inception, to its original home in Staffordshire. Wade Ceramics now produces the jars, where many are exported to the United States. Jugs dating back to earlier days, particularly those made by Thomas Forester & Sons in the late 1800s, are highly prized collectibles. Many home and country supply stores carry Gluggle jugs, sometimes called Glug Glug jugs, if you were interested in purchasing them. They are not difficult to find and add a unique touch to any home decor.