In 2016, Jeremy and Cath Brown traded London’s bustle for a thatched cottage on the edge of Dartmoor. The move was meant to be a pause – space in which to think, to cook, and to walk the dog along windswept tors – but a borrowed pottery wheel quickly set other plans in motion. From their kitchen table, the couple began making mugs for Christmas presents, each one slightly wonky, each one loved. That grew into Feldspar: a design studio known for its “beautifully wonky” fine bone china, handmade and hand-painted in Devon.
Today, Feldspar china – cobalt blue-rimmed mugs, slender teapots tipped with 24-carat gold – is still made entirely by hand. The result is timeless yet playful, marrying craft heritage with the warmth of something made slowly, with intent.
When they’re not in the studio, the Browns like to get out and explore their adopted county. Here, they share their favourite spots in and around Dartmoor, taking you from cinnamon-spiced mornings to suppers by the sea.
Today, Feldspar china – cobalt blue-rimmed mugs, slender teapots tipped with 24-carat gold – is still made entirely by hand. The result is timeless yet playful, marrying craft heritage with the warmth of something made slowly, with intent.
When they’re not in the studio, the Browns like to get out and explore their adopted county. Here, they share their favourite spots in and around Dartmoor, taking you from cinnamon-spiced mornings to suppers by the sea.
Feldspar fine bone china, left, and the brand’s workshop in Devon | Credit: Alexander Rhind
Where’s best for breakfast?
Beachwood Bakery in Chagford is known for its excellent cinnamon buns. Stop by for a mid-morning coffee or to stock up on baked goods to put in your backpack when heading out for a hike on the moor.What about lunch and dinner?
We love Osteria Emilia – a delicious Italian restaurant and wine cellar in Ashburton. Its menu changes depending on what’s in season, but it’s all so, so delicious.Any tips on the best hotels in the area?
Glebe House is a gorgeous bed and breakfast with a hospitality concept based on classic Italian agriturismo [farm stay accommodation]. The food is delicious and they host wonderful events, too, like mackerel fishing days that culminate in a supper on the beach.
Tomatoes on the vine, left, and interiors at Glebe House | Credit: Emma Lavelle
We can’t forget Windout Barn’s Treehouse, either. It’s next door to our workshop, and the perfect place to be based if you’re wanting to explore the wilds of Dartmoor. There’s a bath out on the balcony, so you can have a soak among the trees
We can’t forget Windout Barn’s Treehouse, either. It’s next door to our workshop, and the perfect place to be based if you’re wanting to explore the wilds of Dartmoor. There’s a bath out on the balcony, so you can have a soak among the trees
Somewhere to relax?
Chagford Swimming Pool is our local pool – and it's fed from a moorland stream. It’s wonderful for kids, but it also hosts full moon evening swims for adults, complete with hot chocolate and delicious cakes.What about a day-trip adventure?
Our local vineyard is Swanaford. You can go for tours, but also, over the warmer months, for pop-up suppers amid the vines. On a hot day, with a glass of fizz in hand, there’s really nowhere better to be in Devon!