The Potteries Stoke on Trent
World renowned as the capital of ceramics, Stoke on Trent offers an incredible array of factory tours, museums and the chance to get involved yourself.
Take a trip and peer into the history in a city that has been producing pottery for centuries.
Household names from the city include Wedgwood and Emma Bridgewater both of which have their own connections to The Upper House. It was built in 1845 for Josiah Wedgwood’s grandson, Francis and has been lovingly converted into a luxury character property. Emma Bridgwater is a regular visitor and her favourite room has been named after her.
Visit Middleport Museum, Gladstone Pottery Museum, the World of Wedgwood, Dudson Museum, Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre, Emma Bridgewater Factory, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and Spode Museum Trust Heritage Centre.
Explore the numerous options for your trip by taking a moment to look through the details below.
Wedgwood
Enjoy a factory tour, the Wedgwood Tea Room or book into the Clay Studio to throw your own creation!
View the V&A Wedgwood Collection here in Barlaston.
The World of Wedgwood Factory Outlet sells end of line items from brands such as Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Royal Albert, Waterford …Learn more
Bridgewater
The Emma Bridgewater factory is situated alongside the Caldon Canal in the centre of The Potteries. With the Bridgewater connection to The Upper House, this factory should be high on your list! The factory is ideally located on the outskirts of Stoke-on-Trent’s City Centre. Learn more
Middleport
Middleport Pottery, home of Burleigh, is an award-winning visitor destination in the heart of Burslem. World famous Burleigh pottery has been created here using traditional methods since 1889. Learn more
The Great Pottery Throw Down is filmed at Middleport Pottery in Stoke-On-Trent, Staffordshire. More information
Moorcroft
The Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre displays a fantastic number of handmade Moorcroft Art Pottery within their shop, which sits next to their Museum. William Moorcroft first brought his pottery to the world in 1897 Learn more
Gladstone
Visit the only complete Victorian pottery factory. Gladstone Pottery Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Stoke-on-Trent, it offers fun for all ages as well as an educational opportunity for individuals and groups. Learn more
Dudson
Just a mile from the Dudson Factory Outlet, the Dudson Museum is situated close by, in Hanley. The Museum is housed in an atmospheric Grade ll listed bottle oven. The original factory site dates back 1809 and the Dudson Centre provides a view into the company’s heritage from 1800 until the present day. Learn more
Please check in advance for days that are closed at the individual Potteries as each one has different opening days and times.
Stay with us
Why not stay in luxury while visiting the best of The Potteries.
Relax after a day exploring our local pottery history and stay in a hotel influenced by this history and inspired by local artists.
Stay for 1 or 2 nights and indulge in dinner in our wonderful restaurant.
Why not take advantage of a 10% discount when staying for 2 nights on a dinner, bed and breakfast package!
"Very helpful staff, rooms always clean, lovely old fireplace in operation in winter months, and very relaxing beer gardens for the summer months, I have stayed at this hotel for many years and have always enjoyed my stays. My trips are for business and it is always pleasurable to stay. This hotel is far superior to the big chains of hotels. If you have the time please visit the Wedgewood Factory Shop Outlet Store, museum and excellent restaurant and coffee shop only 5 minutes by car or 15 minutes walk." Martin Glynn – Tripadvisor 2022
