In 2026, Portmeirion Village celebrates an extraordinary milestone, 100 years since its creation. A place unlike any other, the Village has long been a source of inspiration, creativity and colour, forming the heart of the Portmeirion story.
To mark this centenary, we met with Robin Llywelyn, grandson of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and the Managing Director of Portmeirion Village, to reflect on the vision behind the Village and to explore the Botanic Roses Centenary collection we have created in celebration of this significant milestone.
The Vision Behind Portmeirion Village
Portmeirion Village was the creation of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, a visionary architect driven by a powerful idea that development could enhance, rather than harm, the natural environment.
Reflecting on his grandfather’s ambition, Robin explains, “Clough hoped to show that you could develop a beautiful place without spoiling it. He was very keen on showing that development need not necessarily be in defilement or destruction.”
Clough was also, at heart, a builder. His passion lay not just in individual structures, but in how they came together, designing buildings as part of a wider composition, carefully arranged to form the unique and theatrical setting that defines Portmeirion today.
A Living Legacy
One hundred years on, Clough's vision remains as relevant as ever. Portmeirion continues to inspire visitors from around the world, not only through its distinctive architecture and use of colour, but through its enduring message that thoughtful design can coexist with, and even celebrate, the natural world.
Robin explains, “The Village has shown that it is still relevant today and there are messages to be learnt about colouring, the landscape, design and sustainability. Clough was always anxious that the place should remain relevant and have something to say, so hopefully the legacy will be that it carries on and continues to inspire people to be creative.”
Carefully protected for the future, Portmeirion Village is held within a charitable foundation, ensuring it can never be sold and will be preserved for generations to come - a lasting testament to Sir Clough’s belief in longevity and stewardship.
In Bloom: The Botanic Roses Centenary Collection
To honour this remarkable milestone, the Botanic Roses Centenary collection has been created as a tribute to Portmeirion’s heritage. At its heart is the beautiful pink Portmeirion Rose design showcased in the iconic Botanic Garden style, originally created by Susan Williams-Ellis, our founder and Sir Clough’s daughter.
Chosen not only for its beauty, but for its unique connection to the Village itself, Robin explains, “It was nice that we were able to use the David Austin Rose, the Portmeirion Rose that was created for the Village. It’s a very fitting emblem to show Portmeirion in its 100th year.”
Delicate yet distinctive, the rose symbolises the Village in bloom, a celebration of 100 years of creativity, colour and imagination. Each ceramic piece in the collection has been finished with a special backstamp reading ‘Celebrating 100 Years of Portmeirion Village’, offering a lasting mark of this historic occasion.
Designed to Be Treasured
The Botanic Roses Centenary collection has been thoughtfully designed to bring both beauty and practicality into the home. The Bella Jugs, available in both 1.5 pint and 3-pint sizes, are as versatile as they are eye-catching, perfect for serving drinks or displaying fresh flowers. The Sovereign Vase offers a striking centrepiece, while a set of coordinating tea towels brings the collection into everyday kitchen moments.
Whether used for entertaining, decorating or gifting, each item in the collection is designed to be enjoyed, offering a meaningful way to celebrate Portmeirion’s centenary in the home.