Fisherman’s Ceiling Lights: UK Hand-Spun Collection
Three sizes, two alternatives, one British manufacturer – authentic maritime pendants for kitchens, dining rooms and coastal homes
Hand-spun in South Wales by J D Burford, our Fisherman’s ceiling light collection brings together the core pendant range that defines authentic British maritime lighting. This page focuses specifically on the J D Burford family: the three classic Fisherman’s Pendant sizes plus two distinctive alternatives – the Quayside and Harbour pendants – all sharing the same hand-spun aluminium quality and powder-coated finishes.
If you’re looking for genuine UK-made fisherman’s lights with the option of custom cable lengths and coordinated finishes, this is your complete guide to the collection.
The Core Collection: Three Fisherman’s Pendant Sizes
Small Fisherman’s Pendant Light in Chalk White
Large Fisherman’s Pendant Light in Sea Spray Blue – 32cm Dia
Extra Large Cream Fisherman’s Ceiling Light 42cm Dia
Fisherman’s Pendant Features:
- Handmade in UK workshops from spun aluminium
- Traditional angled shade directing light downward
- Clear glass with brass clasp fittings
- Custom cable lengths specified at order (no extra charge)
- Standard 100cm or extended 200cm drops available
- 5 powder-coated finishes: Satin Black, Slate Grey, Chalk White, Seaspray Blue, Traditional Cream
- IP20 rated (indoor/covered outdoor)
- Made to order: 12-15 working days
- Height-adjustable at installation
- Replaceable glass available
Standard Fisherman’s Pendant (26cm diameter)
When to choose Standard:
- Compact kitchens where multiple pendants work better than singles
- Above kitchen islands up to 1.8m long (use 2-3 pendants)
- Hallways and smaller dining areas
- When you want understated nautical character, not drama
- Budget-conscious projects needing multiple fixtures
- Cottages and period properties with lower ceilings
Best configurations:
- Three Standards above a 1.5-1.8m kitchen island
- Singles in cloakrooms or small porches
- Row of Standards along a hallway (spaced 2-3m apart)
The Standard is the most versatile workhorse – it fits where larger pendants overwhelm, works beautifully in multiples, and delivers authentic fisherman’s character without demanding all the attention in a room.
Cable options: 100cm standard, 200cm extended, or custom length at no extra charge
View Standard Fisherman’s Pendants →
Large Fisherman’s Pendant (32cm diameter)
The most popular size – and for good reason:
- Suits standard 2.4m ceiling heights perfectly
- Substantial enough for single pendants above dining tables
- Works in pairs above medium kitchen islands (1.8-2.5m)
- The Goldilocks option: not too big, not too small
- Holds its own in average-sized rooms
- Confident maritime presence without overwhelming
When to choose Large:
- Single pendant above dining tables up to 1.5m long
- Two or three above kitchen islands 1.8-2.5m long
- Entrance halls with standard ceiling heights
- Most residential applications
- When you’re unsure between Standard and Extra Large (this is your safe bet)
Best configurations:
- Single Large as dining table centrepiece
- Two Large pendants above kitchen islands
- Large as statement piece in entrance halls
Cable options: 100cm standard, 200cm extended, or custom length at no extra charge
The Large is our bestseller because it simply works in most British homes. It’s sized to suit typical room proportions, ceiling heights, and furniture scales without special considerations.
View Large Fisherman’s Pendants →
Extra Large Fisherman’s Pendant (42cm diameter)
Maximum impact for spaces that can handle it:
- High ceilings (2.7m minimum, ideally 3m+)
- Grand entrance halls and barn conversions
- Large kitchen islands as bold statement pieces
- Open-plan spaces needing strong focal points
- Commercial dining spaces and hospitality venues
- When you want lighting that commands attention
When to choose Extra Large:
- Rooms with ceiling heights above 2.7m
- Large islands (2.5m+) where smaller pendants look lost
- Dramatic vertical space in vaulted or double-height areas
- When the room scale demands serious presence
- Single statement pendant rather than multiple smaller fixtures
Best configurations:
- Single Extra Large above substantial dining tables
- Two or three above large kitchen islands
- Single pendant in grand entrance halls
Cable options: 100cm standard, 200cm extended, or custom length at no extra charge – particularly important for high ceilings
Important: Extra Large needs proper room proportions to work. In standard-height rooms, it can overwhelm. But in the right space, it’s spectacular.
View Extra Large Fisherman’s Pendants →
The Alternatives: Quayside & Harbour Pendants
Quayside Nautical Pendant
A refined variation on the fisherman’s theme:
The Quayside shares the hand-spun aluminium construction and powder-coated finish of the core Fisherman’s range, but with a more refined, less utilitarian aesthetic. Think lighthouse keeper’s quarters rather than working harbour.
Key features:
- Hand-spun aluminium by J D Burford
- Same five powder-coated finishes as Fisherman’s Pendants (Traditional Cream, Chalk White, Seaspray Blue, Slate Grey, Satin Matt Black or Red)
- Clear glass with brass fittings
- Custom cable lengths available at no extra charge
- Slightly more decorative metalwork detailing
- Made to order: 12-15 working days
When to choose Quayside over standard Fisherman’s:
- You want maritime character with more refinement
- Traditional cottages or period properties where fisherman’s lights feel too industrial
- Dining rooms where you want elegance with coastal reference
- Coordinating with slightly more formal interiors
- When you love the J D Burford quality but prefer softer maritime styling
Works beautifully with: Standard or Large Fisherman’s Pendants elsewhere in the same property – the shared finishes create cohesion while allowing rooms to have distinct characters.
Cable options: 100cm standard, 200cm extended, or custom length at no extra charge
View Quayside Nautical Pendants →
Harbour Pendant
Simplified maritime elegance:
The Harbour Pendant offers the same Large Fisherman’s dimensions (32cm diameter) with a pared-back, less overtly nautical design. It’s for those who want the quality of J D Burford hand-spinning and powder coating, but with more understated maritime reference.
Key features:
- 32cm diameter (same as Large Fisherman’s Pendant)
- Hand-spun aluminium construction
- Simpler, cleaner lines – less decorative metalwork
- Same five powder-coated finishes
- Clear glass
- Custom cable lengths available
- Made to order: 12-15 working days
When to choose Harbour:
- Contemporary or minimalist interiors wanting subtle coastal reference
- When traditional fisherman’s styling feels too decorative
- Modern kitchens where you want maritime quality without vintage aesthetics
- Coordinating with industrial or Scandi interiors
- When less is more
Cable options: 100cm standard, 200cm extended, or custom length at no extra charge
The subtle approach: The Harbour Pendant is what happens when you strip a fisherman’s light down to its essential form. No unnecessary decoration, just honest British metalwork with a nod toward maritime heritage.
All Available in Five Finishes
Every pendant in the J D Burford collection – Standard, Large, Extra Large, Quayside, and Harbour – is available in the same five powder-coated finishes. Plus a more Industrial Raw finish if preferred. This consistency means you can mix sizes and styles throughout your property while maintaining perfect colour coordination.
Traditional Cream
Soft, warm cream for country kitchens, traditional cottages, and period properties. The authentic Aga-kitchen colour that never dates.
Best with: Oak kitchens, cream cabinetry, traditional interiors, farmhouse styles
Chalk White
Clean, crisp white for modern coastal homes, Scandi-inspired kitchens, and contemporary spaces wanting fresh brightness.
Best with: White kitchens, grey schemes, minimalist interiors, coastal contemporary
Seaspray Blue
The signature coastal colour – authentic harbour blue that tells maritime stories. Soft enough to live with daily, distinctive enough to define character.
Best with: Coastal properties, blue kitchens, nautical themes, seaside cottages
Slate Grey
Sophisticated mid-tone that works with everything. The versatile choice that anchors colour schemes without dominating.
Best with: Grey kitchens, neutral schemes, Scandi interiors, contemporary and traditional alike
Satin Matt Black
Industrial-nautical fusion. Bold, confident black for dramatic contrast and modern maritime sophistication.
Best with: Contemporary kitchens, industrial interiors, dark cabinetry, statement lighting
New – Red – A Special Order item
Why powder coating matters: These aren’t painted finishes. Powder coating is electrostatically applied and heat-cured, creating a far tougher surface than paint. It resists chipping, scratching, and fading – which is why these lights maintain their appearance for decades, not years.
Custom Cable Lengths: Perfect Proportions Guaranteed
One of the key advantages of UK-made, made-to-order lighting is custom cable lengths specified before manufacture at no additional cost.
Standard Options
100cm drop (Standard):
- Measured from ceiling rose to bottom of bulb
- Perfect for standard 2.4m ceiling heights
- Works for most residential applications
- Typical specification for dining tables and kitchen islands
200cm drop (Extended):
- Ideal for high ceilings, mezzanines, vaulted spaces
- Creates dramatic vertical elements
- Suitable for 3m+ ceiling heights
- Commercial applications with height to spare
Custom lengths: Simply note your exact requirement at checkout – we’ll manufacture to your specification at no extra charge.
Why This Matters
Mass-produced imports arrive with fixed cables that force compromises:
- Coiling excess cable inside ceiling roses (messy, potentially unsafe)
- Accepting sub-optimal pendant heights
- Expensive electrician time adjusting cables
- Proportions that don’t suit your specific room
Our made-to-order approach eliminates these frustrations. You specify the exact drop you need; we make it precisely. Then your electrician adjusts the final height during installation for perfect positioning.
Choosing the Right Size: Quick Guide
By Room Application
Kitchen Islands:
- Under 1.5m island: 2 Standard or 2 Large
- 1.5-2m island: 3 Standard or 2 Large
- 2-2.5m island: 3 Large or 2 Extra Large
- Over 2.5m island: 3 Extra Large or 4 Large
Dining Tables:
- Small tables (up to 1.2m): 1 Large or 1 Extra Large
- Medium tables (1.2-1.8m): 1 Extra Large or 2 Large
- Large tables (1.8m+): 2 Extra Large or 3 Large
Hallways & Entrance Halls:
- Standard-width hallways: Standard or Large singles
- Grand entrance halls: Extra Large single
- Long hallways: Multiple Standards spaced 2-3m apart
By Ceiling Height
Standard ceilings (2.4m): Standard or Large pendants work best. Extra Large can overwhelm unless room is particularly spacious.
High ceilings (2.7-3m): Large or Extra Large. Standard pendants look lost unless used in multiples.
Very high ceilings (3m+): Extra Large essential. Consider extended 200cm cable drops or custom lengths to fill vertical space impressively.
Rule of thumb: When in doubt, size up slightly. Undersized pendants tend to look apologetic; properly scaled pendants look intentional.
Mixing Sizes and Styles
Within the Same Room
Works well:
- Three Standard Fisherman’s over island + One Large Fisherman’s over dining table (same finish)
- Two Large Fisherman’s over island + Quayside over nearby dining table (coordinated maritime theme)
- Mix of sizes in the same style maintains visual cohesion
Less successful:
- Multiple different styles in the same open-plan view (creates visual clutter)
- Too many size variations (looks accidental rather than intentional)
Throughout a Property
Perfect coordination:
- Large Fisherman’s in kitchen + Standard Fisherman’s in hallway (same finish)
- Quayside in dining room + Fisherman’s in kitchen (same finish creates cohesion)
- Harbour in main spaces + Standard Fisherman’s in secondary spaces
The advantage of one manufacturer, one finish palette: Every J D Burford pendant uses identical powder coating, so Slate Grey in your kitchen matches Slate Grey in your hallway perfectly. This consistency makes coordinating lighting across multiple rooms straightforward.
Extended Cable Drops: Creating Drama
High ceilings offer opportunities for dramatic pendant installations that work particularly well with fisherman’s lights.
When to Use Extended Drops
Vaulted or barn-converted spaces: Extended drops (200cm+) bring pendants down to functional height while showcasing the vertical space.
Mezzanine dining areas: Pendants dropping from high ceilings to hover above mezzanine dining tables create stunning visual statements.
Staircases and landings: Extended drops along staircases provide illumination while celebrating architectural volume.
Commercial spaces: Restaurants and cafés with high ceilings benefit from pendants that fill vertical space impressively.
Specification Tips
Measure carefully: Measure from ceiling to desired pendant bottom, accounting for:
- Final pendant position above table/island (70-80cm typical)
- Ceiling rose depth
- Pendant shade height
- Slight adjustment room during installation
Add 10-20cm buffer: Specifying slightly longer than calculated measurement allows for final adjustment during installation without coming up short.
Consider visual proportion: Very long drops create dramatic vertical lines – ensure room width and ceiling height can handle the impact.
All Include: Made-to-Order Quality
Every J D Burford ceiling light in this collection arrives with:
- ✓ Hand-spun aluminium shade
- ✓ Clear glass with nickel plated fittings
- ✓ Complete ceiling rose and mounting hardware
- ✓ Your specified cable length
- ✓ Comprehensive fitting instructions
- ✓ Electrical testing certification
- ✓ 12-15 working day manufacture time
What you provide: E27 (ES) Edison Screw bulb, up to 60W maximum. We strongly recommend LED filament bulbs for efficiency, longevity, and beautiful appearance through clear glass.
Installation Considerations
Professional Electrician Recommended
All ceiling light installations require electrical work. Use qualified electricians for:
- New pendant installations
- Replacing existing ceiling roses
- Any work requiring new circuits
- All commercial installations
UK Building Regulations govern electrical work. Professional installation ensures compliance, safety, and insurance validity.
What Your Electrician Does
- Isolates power supply
- Fits ceiling rose and makes electrical connections
- Adjusts final pendant height for optimal positioning
- Tests installation thoroughly
- Provides certification if required
Height Adjustment
Although cable length is specified during manufacture, final height is adjustable during installation. Your electrician can fine-tune positioning to achieve exactly the right proportion above tables, islands, or within room space.
Typical heights:
- Above kitchen islands: 70-80cm from worktop to pendant bottom
- Above dining tables: 70-90cm from table to pendant bottom
- Hallways/open spaces: Adjusted to suit ceiling height and sightlines
Bulb Recommendations: LED Filament Style
Why LED Matters
Energy savings: 6-9W LED provides light equivalent to 40-60W incandescent bulb – 80% less electricity. For three pendants above a kitchen island, annual savings are typically £120-160 at current UK energy rates.
Longevity: 25,000-50,000 hour lifespan means 20+ years of typical use. Particularly valuable when pendants are installed at height.
Light quality: Modern LED filament bulbs provide warm, inviting light (2700-3000K) that enhances coastal atmosphere while maintaining clarity for kitchen tasks.
Bulb Style Recommendations
For fisherman’s pendants with clear glass:
LED filament bulbs (highly recommended): These showcase beautifully through clear glass, adding vintage charm to traditional maritime character. The visible filament creates authentic period appearance with modern efficiency.
Clear vs pearl/frosted:
- Clear glass bulbs: More defined shadows, showcases filament design, traditional aesthetic
- Pearl/frosted: Softer, more diffused light, reduces glare, contemporary feel
Shape options:
- Classic bulb shape (GLS): Traditional, suits most applications
- Globe (G95/G125): More decorative, works well in Extra Large pendants
- Candle/flame: Unnecessary for fisherman’s pendants (better suited to decorative chandeliers)
Dimming Capability
Specify dimmable LED bulbs and install on dimmer switches for flexibility:
- Bright task lighting during food preparation
- Medium ambient lighting for everyday use
- Soft atmospheric lighting during dining
Not all LED bulbs dim smoothly – check specifications and consider quality brands for better dimming performance.
Maintenance: Built for Decades
Routine Care
Quarterly cleaning:
- Wipe exterior aluminium with soft cloth and mild detergent
- Clean glass inside and out (remove brass clasps for interior access)
- Dust accumulation reduces light output significantly
Annual inspection:
- Verify ceiling rose remains securely mounted
- Check cable condition at ceiling rose
- Ensure glass clasps remain tight
- Inspect brass fittings for any corrosion (rare, but check coastal locations)
Replacement Parts Available
Glass shades: Replaceable via nickel clasps. If glass breaks, replacement shades are available – the pendant fixture itself remains serviceable indefinitely.
This serviceability matters: These aren’t disposable lights. A pendant installed today can still illuminate your kitchen in 2050 with nothing more than bulb changes and occasional glass replacement if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between Standard, Large, and Extra Large?
Consider ceiling height and room scale. Standard suits compact spaces and multiple-pendant installations. Large works for most domestic applications – it’s the versatile middle ground. Extra Large needs ceiling heights of 2.7m+ and spacious rooms. When uncertain, err slightly larger – undersized pendants look tentative.
Can I specify custom cable lengths?
Yes – this is a key advantage of UK-made, made-to-order pendants. At checkout, note your exact cable length requirement at no extra charge. Standard is 100cm, extended 200cm, or any custom length you need. We manufacture before dispatch, ensuring perfect proportions for your installation.
What’s the difference between Fisherman’s, Quayside, and Harbour pendants?
All are hand-spun by J D Burford with identical finishes and quality. Fisherman’s is the classic working-harbour aesthetic. Quayside is more refined with decorative detailing – lighthouse keeper rather than dockside. Harbour is simplified and contemporary – maritime quality with minimal decoration. Choose based on how overtly nautical you want the styling.
How long does delivery take?
12-15 working days for manufacture and dispatch. Each pendant is individually hand-spun to order with your specified cable length. We know waiting is frustrating, but the result justifies patience – a handcrafted British fixture rather than a mass-produced import.
Can I mix sizes in the same room?
Yes, if thoughtfully done. Three Standard over an island with one Large over the dining table (same finish) works well. Mixing too many sizes or styles in the same sightline looks accidental. The key is intentional coordination, not random variation.
Are these suitable for covered outdoor spaces?
Yes, for covered locations protected from direct rain – porches, conservatories, sheltered patios. IP20 rating suits indoor and covered outdoor use. For fully exposed outdoor positions, see our wall lights collection with IP44-IP65 ratings.
Will the powder coating fade or chip?
Powder coating is extraordinarily durable – far tougher than paint. The heat-cured finish resists chipping, fading, and wear. With normal use and gentle cleaning, these pendants maintain their appearance for decades. This is why we can sell lights built to last 40+ years confidently.
Can these be installed on sloped/vaulted ceilings?
Yes, with appropriate ceiling rose adapters. Mention sloped ceilings to your electrician – they’ll ensure proper mounting hardware. The pendants themselves hang vertically regardless of ceiling angle.
Do you offer installation services?
We don’t provide installation directly, but any qualified electrician can install these pendants straightforwardly. The fixtures arrive with comprehensive instructions, ceiling roses, and all mounting hardware. Installation typically takes 30-45 minutes per pendant for an experienced electrician.
Why J D Burford?
60+ Years of British Manufacturing
J D Burford has been hand-spinning aluminium in South Wales since the 1950s. They’re metal spinners first, lighting manufacturers second – their core business is aluminium components for the building industry. This means serious metalworking expertise applied to lighting, not the reverse.
Traditional Hand-Spinning Technique
Each shade is formed on a spinning lathe by skilled craftspeople. This creates seamless construction with consistent wall thickness – stronger and more durable than pressed or stamped alternatives. It’s a centuries-old technique that produces superior results.
Made-to-Order Flexibility
Because each pendant is made individually to order, custom cable lengths over 200 cm cost nothing extra. Mass-produced imports can’t offer this – they arrive with whatever cable the factory specified. This made-to-order approach means perfect proportions for your specific installation.
Powder Coating Expertise
J D Burford’s powder coating facility serves the building industry, handling architectural metalwork demanding extreme durability. This same expertise applies to lighting finishes – exceptionally tough, long-lasting coatings that maintain appearance for decades.
Supporting British Manufacturing
Every pendant purchased supports skilled jobs in South Wales and keeps traditional metalworking techniques alive. In an age of disposable imports, choosing UK-made is both practical (better quality, longer lifespan) and principled (supporting domestic manufacturing).
Learn more about J D Burford’s heritage →
Complete Your Scheme
Coordinating Collections
Fisherman’s Wall Lights
Match your ceiling pendants with wall lights in identical finishes. Small and Large wall lights for hallways, porches, and outdoor walls.
View Fisherman’s Wall Lights →
Barn & Stable Lights
Rustic outdoor lighting from the same manufacturer. Perfect for utility areas, garages, and outbuildings.
View Barn Lights →
Burford Wall Light
Compact outdoor wall light sharing J D Burford quality and finishes.
View Burford Lights →
Ready to Order?
Browse the complete J D Burford ceiling light collection:
✓ Three Fisherman’s Pendant sizes (Standard, Large, Extra Large)
✓ Quayside Nautical Pendant (refined maritime styling)
✓ Harbour Pendant (simplified contemporary design)
✓ Five powder-coated finishes on every pendant
✓ Custom cable lengths at no extra charge
✓ 12-15 working day made-to-order manufacture
✓ Hand-spun in South Wales since 1950s
✓ Built to last decades, not years
Hand-Spun in South Wales by J D Burford
Supporting British craftsmanship since the 1950s