Stoke-on-Trent, known for its rich history in ceramics, is celebrating a significant milestone in 2025: the 100th anniversary of its city status. The city, often referred to as “The Potteries,” comprises six towns, each contributing to its legacy as a hub of ceramic production. The World of Wedgwood is one of the most prominent attractions, offering visitors the chance to explore the legacy of Josiah Wedgwood, a local potter who revolutionized the ceramics industry. Visitors can tour the V&A Wedgwood Collection, where Wedgwood’s iconic blue jasperware and other neoclassical designs are on display, as well as the First Day Vase, a masterpiece created by Wedgwood himself.
For those keen to try their hand at pottery, the World of Wedgwood offers taster sessions where guests can experience throwing a pot on a wheel. While some may create elegant vases or bowls, others may end up with creations that are a bit less refined like a volcanic-shaped lump of clay, but the experience is undoubtedly fun and educational.
Stoke’s ceramic heritage is not only preserved in museums but also in working pottery factories. Gladstone Pottery Museum, a key filming location for The Great Pottery Throw Down, offers a glimpse into the city’s industrial past. Meanwhile, Middleport Pottery, home to Burleigh Pottery, continues to produce ceramics using techniques dating back over 100 years, including the intricate underglaze tissue printing process, a method still practiced here and nowhere else.
The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery in Hanley is another must-visit. Its ceramics gallery offers an in-depth look at the history of pottery, while its other collections feature fine art and local history. The museum is situated in a vibrant part of the city, surrounded by pedestrianized streets filled with cafes, restaurants, and independent shops. Nearby, Bottlecraft offers a great spot for craft beer lovers, and Drop City Books is a cozy independent bookstore that adds to the community feel of the area.
In addition to its ceramics legacy, Stoke-on-Trent is embracing its cultural future with a variety of events planned for 2025. Chef’s Table, led by local chef Cris Cohen, will launch a centenary menu in February, drawing inspiration from the heritage of the six towns. The popular Trentham Gardens will host a music festival in May, and a city-wide Celebration Weekend will take place in June. September will bring the British Ceramics Biennial, a celebration of contemporary ceramics that further highlights Stoke’s role as a center for ceramic art.
For those looking to explore beyond the pottery studios and museums, the city’s rich history and vibrant culture provide a unique blend of old and new. Whether it’s enjoying a leisurely afternoon at Trentham Gardens, exploring the heritage of Middleport Pottery, or simply soaking in the creative atmosphere of the city, there’s no shortage of things to do in Stoke-on-Trent as it celebrates its centenary. This year promises to be an exciting time for the city, and it’s a great opportunity to discover the heritage and artistry that have shaped Stoke-on-Trent into the world-renowned ceramics capital it is today.
