Netherton Foundry: Traditional Spun Iron and Copper Cookware
“Netherton Foundry is an independent manufacturer based in South Shropshire, dedicated to creating 'heritage' items designed to last generations. Inspired by the 18th-century ironmasters, they manufacture their spun iron and copper pans in the heart of England, utilising UK-sourced materials - from Sussex flax oil to Shropshire oak - to produce cookware that improves with every use.”
1. The Heritage
Founded by designers Neil and Sue Carr-Onn, Netherton Foundry was born from a desire to move away from mass-produced, disposable kitchenware.
Having previously designed appliances for global brands manufactured overseas, they transitioned to a domestic model that prioritises provenance and repairability.
Their logo and design philosophy pay direct homage to the nearby Iron Bridge at Coalbrookdale, symbolising a return to the values of durable, UK-made industrial craft.
2. The Location
The company operates from Netherton Workshops in Cleobury Mortimer, South Shropshire. This site serves as a traditional manufacturing workshop where heavy-duty iron and copper are physically "spun" over beech tools to create pan bodies. By maintaining their base in the "birthplace of industry," they utilise a hyper-local supply chain, with many of their raw components sourced from foundries in neighbouring Dudley and the Black Country.
3. The Difference
Spun vs. Cast Iron: Unlike traditional cast iron which can be heavy and brittle, Netherton "spins" its black iron. This process results in a pan that is approximately half the weight of cast iron while retaining the same superior heat-retention and magnetic qualities required for induction hobs.
Chemical-Free Non-Stick: They avoid PTFE (Teflon) and PFOA coatings. Every iron pan is pre-seasoned at high temperature with organic flax oil from West Sussex, creating a natural, non-stick patina that improves over time rather than peeling away. This patina can be refreshed by the user, repeatedly, with little time and effort.
Component Traceability: The company is transparent about every material used; for example, the oak used for their pan handles is grown in the Wyre Forest and hand-turned by local craftsmen.
Designed for Repair: Netherton products are engineered for a lifetime of use. They provide spare parts, from replacement oak handles to brass wing nuts, and even offer a professional re-seasoning service to restore older pans to new condition.
4. The Hero Products
Spun Iron Frying Pan (with Oak Handle Covers): Their signature pan, available in sizes from 8" to 14". It is suitable for all hobs, including induction, and the oak handle covers can be easily removed for oven-safe cooking up to high temperatures.
The 12-inch Prospector Pan: A versatile, double-handled "one-pot" cooking pan designed for hob, oven, and even open-fire cooking. It represents the ultimate in durable, multi-purpose kitchenware.
British Spun Copper Sauté Pan: For the professional home cook, these traditional copper pans offer unparalleled thermal conductivity. Each is hand-lined with pure tin, providing a natural non-stick surface without the need for seasoning.
5. The Essentials
Accreditations: Made in Britain member; Queen's Award for Enterprise (International Trade).
Product Index: Frying Pans, Woks, Saucepans, Griddle Plates, Baking Sheets, Casserole Dishes, Copper Pans, Slow Cookers, Tagines, Pie Dishes, Flax Seasoning Oil.
