The Manchester Tiles Letter E – Eccles Cake

This Eccles cake tile — the second E in our Manchester tiles series — pays homage to the everyday, celebrating a favourite confectionary of the region and a heritage that stretches back centuries.

Records date its existence back to the 16th century when it was baked as part of the St. Mary’s Day celebrations in Eccles. The myth of Manchester tends to centre around the growth of the city as an industrial powerhouse, but when we enjoy this simple dessert we are reminded of a connection to a much longer social history. One that bleeds out across all manner of small towns across the North West of England.

Our illustration places the cakes, the recipe and their homely setting front and centre, and while the ever-churning city can be seen through the window, it is quiet for now.

Each E Tile is designed in Manchester, hand-rolled and glazed in the UK’s ceramic heartland of Stoke-on-Trent, before returning north for local firing. The result is a finely crafted ceramic tile that feels both rooted and modern — a distinctive decorative piece celebrating Manchester’s identity.

Perfect for framing, feature walls, kitchens, bathrooms, or as part of a larger tiled installation.

Material: CeramicSize: 6 × 6 inches