15 Best Things to Do in Stoke-On-Trent (England)

The city of Stoke-on-Trent, known to many as Stoke, can be found about halfway between the sprawling cities of Manchester and Birmingham. Founded in 1910, Stoke quickly became the centre of England’s pottery production, exporting its goods all over the world. Today, you can still see remnants of its past dotted around town, while its residents are still sometimes referred to as ‘Potters’.

While Stoke-on-Trent can be mistaken for a small city, it is in fact the largest city in the borough of Staffordshire, offering plenty of activities for visitors. From it’s cultural establishments to its outdoor spaces, Stoke has a little something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Potteries Museum and Art Gallery

True to Stoke-on-Trent’s history, the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery offers up a historical collection of ceramics, some of which are nearly a century old. Along with an extensive collection of local ceramics, Potteries Museum and Art Gallery also houses exhibitions that explore the world of archaeology, natural science, fine art and design. Once you’re finished soaking up all the culture that the museum can offer you, head out into the Secret Gardens that have been carefully designed as a space of relaxation and reflection.

Website:https://www.stokemuseums.org.uk/pmag/

2. Gladstone Pottery Museum

Housed in an old Victorian pottery factory, the Gladstone Pottery Museum is the best place to go if you’re interested in learning more about Stoke’s industrial past. The main rooms in the museum showcase the fascinating history of how Stoke-on-Trent’s local potters went on to export their ceramics around the world, putting the city at the heart of the global pottery industry.

Once you’ve read up on the history side of things, you can watch a pottery making demonstration in the factory, and even try and throw a pot yourself.

Website: http://www.stokemuseums.org.uk/visit/gpm/

3. Regent Theatre

If you want to catch a live show while you’re in town, then The Regent Theatre is where you’ll need to head. Opening its doors in the 1920s, the theatre was originally used as a cinema to show hit blockbuster films as well as the odd live dance show or theatrical performance.

It was not until 1999 that the venue was converted into a full-time theatre, and used as the city’s main establishment to host musicals, plays and operatic events. To this day, it continues to be the go-to venue for all things live performance. Even if you can’t catch a show at the Regents Theatre, it’s worth a quick visit to check out its Art Deco style frontage.

4. Trentham Monkey Forest

Located just a fifteen-minute drive south of Stoke-on-Trent is the ever-popular Trentham Monkey Forest. Enveloped by beautiful forest, Trentham Monkey Forest is home to 140 Barbary macaques who are free to roam around as they wish.

Visitors can stroll along the many paths in the forest, keeping their eye out for monkeys as they go. As you make your way through the grounds, check out the information boards and interactive video stations that tell you a bit about the monkeys and how they ended up here.

Website: https://monkey-forest.com/

5. Trentham Estate and Gardens

The award-winning Trentham Estate and Gardens can be found just south of Stoke-on-Trent and are well worth the small detour. Stretching across a huge 725 acres, the Trentham Estate is considered to be one of the UK’s largest remaining garden estates. With all of this to explore, it’s easy enough to while away the day exploring everything that it has to offer.

Within the gardens, you’ll find the mile-long lake, surrounded by vibrant flower beds. One of the most popular things to do in Trentham Estate is to follow the circular path around the lake, soaking up the stunning landscapes as you go.

Website: https://www.trentham.co.uk/

6. Churnet Valley Railway

You’ll need to head around ten miles east of Stoke-on-Trent to jump on this historic railway at the station in Froghall. The train will take you on a journey through a part of Staffordshire’s countryside that has earnt itself the nickname of ‘Little Switzerland’ thanks to its rolling green hills, endless woodland and open meadows.

While trains run all day long and offer passengers a round-trip back to their original destinations, it’s wise to book in advance, especially during the summer. As well as soaking up the spectacular scenery, you can treat yourself to afternoon tea, lunch or dinner onboard the train.

Website: https://www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/

7. Potteries Shopping Centre

Those of you who enjoy a spot of retail shopping during your vacations will not be disappointed with the Potteries Shopping Centre. Here, you’ll find all of the high-street favourites, including clothes shops, home furnishings, and a good selection of places to grab a bite to eat. Connected to the Potteries Shopping Centre is also The Hive, a leisure complex complete with a cinema and even more dining options.

Website: https://intu.co.uk/potteries

8. Mow Cop Castle

Mow Cop Castle is the perfect excuse to stretch your legs if you’re holidaying in Stoke-on-Trent, especially as it’s only a twenty-minute drive north of the city centre. Maintained by the National Trust, the folly castle is thought to date back to 1750s, though the date is not exactly known.

The castle’s remains sit at the top of a rocky outcrop, and those who wish to climb to the top will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Staffordshire countryside. It’ll take you less than half an hour to walk to the top, as its less than a mile one-way. The climb is relatively steep, however, so make sure you’re prepared.

9. Biddulph Grange Garden

Another place of outstanding beauty that’s less than half an hour away from Stoke-on-Trent is the Biddulph Grange Garden. If you want to, this is an easy trip to combine with a visit to Mow Cop Castle, which you’ll pass by on the way to Biddulph Grange Garden.

Designed by James Bateman and Edward William Cooke in the early 19th century, the grounds are a collection of many different gardens reflecting both national and international themes. The Italian Garden, Egyptian Garden, Chinese Garden, Himalayan Garden and Cherry Orchard all sit side by side and are there for you to wander through at your own pace.

Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/biddulph-grange-garden

10. Alton Towers

Perhaps one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most popular attractions, Alton Towers provides a fun-filled day out for friends and families alike. As one of England’s most popular theme parks and its largest one too, you’ll need to set aside at least a day to experience everything Alton Towers has to offer.

For the adrenaline seekers among us the infamous rollercoasters, Oblivion, The Smiler and Nemesis are sure to get your heart pumping. For something a little more family-friendly, head to the Congo River Rapids or the Runaway Mine Train. For the little ones, CBeebies land is sure to be a hit.

Website: https://www.altontowers.com/

11. bet365 Stadium

Once known as The Britannia, the bet365 Stadium is home to Stoke City Football Club. During the football season, which runs from September to May, you can get yourself tickets to see the team play on the pitch and soak up the atmosphere of the crowd.

If your visit doesn’t coincide with a match, why not opt for a stadium tour instead? Tours run throughout the week as well as at weekends and allow you to experience a behind the scenes glimpse of the stadium. From a visit to the first teams dressing room to a chance to step inside an executive box and Sir Stanley Matthew’s Lounge, it will be a tour to remember.

Website: https://www.stokecityfc.com/

12. Central Forest Park

Just north of Stoke-on-Trent is a small town called Hanley, home to the Central Forest Park. This 49-acre green space is popular amongst locals, looking to enjoy some fresh air for a few hours. With a lake as its central feature, you can spend your day walking or cycling through the grounds, having a go at skateboarding at Stoke Skate Plaza or taking he kids to enjoy the safari-themed adventure play area.

13. Waterworld

Opened in 1989, Stoke-on-Trent’s Waterworld has been providing a great day out for families for over thirty years now. This aquapark is home to three large pools and more than 20 waterslides, catering to every age and swimming ability.

Jump into a rubber ring to experience The Nucleus, one of Waterworld’s most popular rides that will take you on a 375-foot adventure through slide tunnels. Alternatively, head to the Space Bowl, a spiral slide that drops you into a two-meter deep tub of water. For something a little less intense, give te pirate-themed rapids a whirl.

Website: https://www.waterworld.co.uk/

14. World of Wedgewood

The Wedgewood Factory has been producing world-class ceramics since 1759 and to this day, remains an iconic brand in British tableware. The World of Wedgewood gives you a chance to watch the factory in action and even take home some hand-crafted pieces for a reasonable price.

You’ll need to join a guided tour to visit the factory as visitors aren’t allowed to explore on their own. The guided tours last 45-minutes and are lead by one of the factory’s knowledgeable staff. Take a sneak peek into the workshops where the design takes place, before watching the process from start to finish, including the casting, firing, glazing, decorating and gilding.

Website: https://www.worldofwedgwood.com/

15. Peak District National Park

One of England’s best national parks lies just an hour away from Stoke-on-Trent, offering up the perfect day trip during your city break. Known for its endless rolling hills, open moorlands, rocky outcrops and hidden caves, the Peak District National Park is unmissable when you’re in this part of England.

Most people choose to spend their day hiking along the numerous walking paths and to the tops of the many peaks, but there are plenty of other activities on offer here if you’re feeling adventurous. Rock climbing, mountain climbing and fishing are all on the cards, and there are plenty of tours available if you need the help of a professional.

Website: https://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/