The Great Clay Pilgrimage – Exploring Stoke on Trent
Our customers span across the UK and all share a deep appreciation for the wonderful craft that is pottery.
But how many of you have been and explored Stoke on Trent, the absolute mecca of pottery?
We are inviting all of our customers to consider a visit to Stoke-on-Trent to collect your clay order.
Why not make a special journey and organise a memorable day trip to the heart of pottery-making?
We are calling this ‘The Great Clay Pilgrimage’ and hoping you will join in!
We don’t need to tell anyone that Stoke on Trent, is a city steeped in history, culture, and craftsmanship.
It is the pottery capital of England and is a vibrant city full of truly wonderful ceramic sights and even more wonderful folk!
Stoke is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone curious about the rich heritage of ceramics.
From iconic pottery museums to the remnants of historic pot banks, Stoke-on-Trent offers a captivating journey through the evolution of pottery-making.
So have we tempted you to make a day of it exploring Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire’s pottery heartland?
Here are some more reasons why you absolutely should…..
A Glimpse into the Past:
Potteries Museum & Art Gallery
Located in the city centre, this cultural hub houses a remarkable collection that traces the story of pottery production in the region.
Admire exquisite ceramic pieces dating back centuries, from delicate porcelain to sturdy earthenware, each bearing witness to the skill and artistry of generations of potters.
Some of the museum’s highlights are the Spitfire and the renowned Staffordshire Hoard, a treasure trove of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver artifacts discovered in a nearby field.
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A Journey Through Time:
Gladstone Pottery Museum
Step back in time as you venture to the Gladstone Pottery Museum, a living tribute to Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heritage.
Set within a preserved Victorian pottery factory, this open-air museum provides a captivating insight into the daily lives of pottery workers during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Explore the authentic workshops, kilns, and warehouses, where skilled artisans once toiled to produce the city’s famous ceramics.
Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era as you witness traditional pottery-making techniques brought to life by costumed guides and live demonstrations.
Gladstone is also the location of the filming for The Great Pottery Throwdown and a must visit for potters!
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Step back in time:
Middleport Pottery
Middleport Pottery boasts a unique heritage site where you can explore the original Victorian offices and learn about the people and events which have shaped the Pottery.
Step back in time as you explore the mould store, housing Europe’s largest collection of ceramic moulds, and take an inside look at the Pottery’s huge bottle kiln, one of the few remaining in Stoke.
Middleport is also the home of Burleigh Pottery and they have an extensive collection for purchase in their factory shop
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Exploring Tradition and Innovation:
From its heritage gallery to its bustling factory floor, the World of Wedgwood offers a symphony of craftsmanship, elegance, and innovation.
Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a day of indulgence, a visit to this iconic destination promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the timeless allure of Wedgwood’s legacy.
Immerse yourself in the world of Wedgwood, where tradition meets innovation, and every piece tells a story of beauty, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.
After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a culinary delight at the World of Wedgwood’s on-site restaurant or their award winning tea room.
Wander through the Wedgwood Flagship Store and browse an exquisite collection of fine china, elegant homeware, and exclusive gifts.
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Explore a heritage collection:
Dudson Museum
The Dudson Museum is one of the few remaining pottery museums solely dedicated to the heritage of a single company.
Boasting a huge collection of Dudson pottery that spans over 300 years and is elegantly displayed across two floors.
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Explore Craftmanship:
Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre
Moorcroft continues to uphold its esteemed reputation in the art pottery world.
They are dedicated to heritage techniques and boast a roster of acclaimed designers.
The Centre takes visitors through the ages of ceramic artistry, where every piece tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty.
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Explore priceless artifacts:
Spode Museum Trust Heritage Centre
Spode is one of England’s most renowned pottery manufacturers.
Discover the factory’s rich history, venture into the renowned Blue Room and marvel at their exquisite displays of fine ceramics and archival films.
With a expansive shop on site, Spode is a must visit!
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Uncovering the ceramic trails:
Industrial Heritage Trail: Potbanks
Living Heritage Trail
No visit to Stoke-on-Trent would be complete without venturing along the Industrial Heritage Trail
This is a route that winds its way through the city’s historic pot banks and industrial landmarks.
Bottle ovens and towering chimneys serve as reminders of the city’s industrial heyday.
Ceramic murals adorning the buildings, each telling a story of Stoke-on-Trent’s proud pottery heritage.
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Industrial Heritage Trail: Tiles
Potteries Tile Trail
These trails provide a delightful opportunity to delve into the city’s history and heritage while immersing yourself in its magnificent ‘in situ’ ceramics, all at no cost.
This series comprises six downloadable introductory ’tile trails’ covering Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Fenton, and Longton.
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Embracing Creativity:
Pottery Workshops and Studios
For those inspired to try their hand at pottery-making, Stoke-on-Trent offers a range of workshops and studios where visitors can unleash their creativity.
Join a hands-on pottery class led by experienced artisans, who will guide you through the process of throwing, shaping, and glazing your own ceramic masterpiece.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned potter, there’s something uniquely rewarding about creating your own piece of pottery in the heart of England’s pottery capital.
Take home a tangible memento of your Stoke-on-Trent experience, infused with the spirit of creativity and craftsmanship that defines this remarkable city.
Throw a Pot > LoveClay
Paint a Pot > Emma Bridgewater Factory
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And finally:
The humble oatcake!
No trip to Stoke on Trent would be complete without enjoying an Oatcake or two from one of the many Oatcake shops that our city boasts.
Our friends at Visit Stoke have compiled this fantastic list of all of the greatest oatcake shops to visit on your trip.
Where to get the best oatcake in SOT!
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Whether you’re drawn to historic ceramics or the vibrant creativity of contemporary pottery-making, a visit to Stoke-on-Trent promises a journey of discovery and delight.
So, come and explore our fascinating city, where the art of pottery is not just a tradition but a way of life.