About Us

Potburys of Sidmouth began trading as furnishers and auctioneers in 1861. It offered the 'complete furnishing service' with a shop in the high street and separate locations for the removals service and auction rooms.

Still located on the high street in Sidmouth, Potburys remains an independently owned and family-run business, now in the hands of the Lee family, yet respecting the traditional values of our founders.

Terence Lee joined Potburys in 1942 as an office boy straight from school. He rose through the ranks and took part ownership upon the death of the last surviving Potbury family member. In 1981 Michael, Terence's eldest son, joined Potburys, having gained retail experience at two other furniture stores.

When Terence retired in 1989 after 47 years in the business, Michael took over as managing director. In keeping with the family tradition, Michael's middle son, Paddy, joined Potburys in 2018 and is now at the helm as managing director.