"As well as being the best tools for the job, treasured hand-me-downs fill us with pleasant memories of our childhood and even family members we've lost."
Rebecca Kane, Silver Mushroom
THEY are the comforting keepsakes that have remained constant throughout changing trends in the kitchen – and items you should never, ever get rid of.
That’s because these mixing bowls, Dutch ovens and classic crockery feature timeless designs and were produced by manufacturers with proud histories.
Passed down from generation to generation, they have stood the test of time while other tableware and kitchen utensil fads have come and gone.
And with more and more people now cooking at home – making use of skills they learned during lockdown – legacy kitchen brands are more in demand than ever before.
Experts at interiors marketplace Silver Mushroom have pooled their knowledge to come up with their top five items that simply keep on delivering.
Founder Rebecca Kane said: “Nothing beats using the old mixing bowl grandma used to bake with.
“As well as being the best tools for the job, treasured hand-me-downs fill us with pleasant memories of our childhood and even family members we've lost.
“One thing’s for sure, they come back to life when we dig them out and let culinary magic happen again.”
Kilner
Established in 1842 and famous for its sealed click top and screw-tight preserve jars, Kilner has become the go-to brand for pickle and jam makers.
They also include butter churners and coffee grinders in their catalogue, along with a drinks range which also features dispensing taps – ideal for making and dispensing fruit summer punch.
And, of course, there are matching jars with crafted handles to enjoy the punch in.
Le Creuset
Founded in 1925, this premium French cookware brand is best known for its brightly coloured enamelled cast iron casserole dishes and saucepans.
The products are much prized for heating up quickly and retaining a desired temperature.
Many kitchens around the UK will boast a Dutch oven that has served up hundreds of stews over the years.
According to Le Creuset: “Our cast iron casseroles are the product of nearly a century of refinement. Passed down through generations, they get better with age.”
Mason Cash
The ultimate in mixing bowls that will be instantly recognisable to anyone with a passion or baking.
The distinctive light-brown bowls have been in use since 1901 and are still manufactured at the original factory in Derbyshire.
Simple in design, they have stood the test of time and brought many parents and children together for cake-baking and biscuit-making fun.
Denby
Another favourite from Derbyshire, the world famous tableware and cookware brand has put the town it’s named after firmly on the map since being founded more than 200 years ago.
Denby products are still made on the original site and only ever used locally sourced clay.
Around the 1920s it proudly produced its 'never drip' blue teapot, strengthening further a reputation for excellence.
Villeroy & Boch
The German ceramics specialist creates high-quality porcelain and is famed for its meticulous approach to quality control.
Founded in 1748, Villeroy & Boch now produce a variety of different styles – from the classic Royal range to innovative New Wave tableware sets.
They are also a staple on weddings lists, setting up newlyweds for some luxury fine dining on exceptional plates and bowls.
