Staircase House, Stockport's Historic Time Capsule
Step back through centuries in Stockport’s oldest townhouse, home to a rare Jacobean staircase and immersive historical journey.
Staircase House is Stockport’s oldest townhouse, dating back to around 1460. Famous for its rare Jacobean cage-newel staircase, this beautifully restored medieval building offers visitors an immersive journey through five centuries of local history, from its timber-framed origins to WWII. Located in Stockport’s Market Place, it features interactive period rooms and a state-of-the-art multilingual audio guide, making history accessible and engaging for all ages.
A brief summary to Staircase House
- 30/31 Market Pl, Stockport, SK1 1ES, GB
- +441614744444
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Use the audio guide to fully appreciate the detailed history and stories behind each period room.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the house has narrow staircases and uneven floors typical of historic buildings.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Stockport Indoor Market for a full cultural experience.
- Check opening times in advance as the house is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent bus services run from Stockport railway station to Market Place, taking about 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3. Buses operate regularly but check schedules for evening and weekend variations.
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Train
Stockport railway station is about 1.5 km from Staircase House, a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride costing around £5. Trains connect Stockport with Manchester and other regional hubs, with frequent services throughout the day.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Stockport town center and from the railway station. A typical fare to Staircase House is around £5-£7 depending on traffic and time of day.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to Staircase House is pleasant and accessible, taking 10-20 minutes through Stockport’s Market Place area. The terrain is mostly flat but some cobbled surfaces are present.
Staircase House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Staircase House
A Medieval Merchant’s Home Preserved Through Time
Staircase House stands as a remarkable testament to Stockport’s rich history, originally built circa 1460 as a timber-framed merchant’s residence. Its cruck-framed walls reveal medieval construction techniques rarely seen today. Over centuries, the house evolved, reflecting changing architectural styles and domestic life, culminating in the 17th-century Jacobean cage-newel staircase that gives the house its name. This staircase is one of only three surviving examples in the UK, making it an architectural treasure and focal point of the building.An Immersive Journey Through Five Centuries
Visitors experience a captivating timeline inside Staircase House, moving through 16 meticulously restored period rooms that showcase life from the 15th century through to the Second World War. Each room is furnished authentically, with interactive displays encouraging hands-on exploration. The house’s layout and exhibits reveal the social and cultural changes over time, from medieval austerity to Georgian comfort and wartime resilience, providing a vivid narrative of Stockport’s past inhabitants.Architectural and Historical Significance
Designated as a Grade II* listed building, Staircase House preserves rare elements such as its Jacobean staircase and original timber framing. The building survived a devastating fire in 1995 and was carefully restored to maintain its historic integrity. Its location in Stockport’s historic Market Place situates it at the heart of the town’s heritage. The house also holds a unique place in local folklore, with reported hauntings adding an intriguing layer to its story.Engaging and Accessible Visitor Experience
The museum offers a state-of-the-art audio guide available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Cantonese, and Urdu, enhancing the visitor experience with detailed storytelling. The venue is designed to be barrier-free where possible, though the narrow staircases may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Friendly staff and volunteers provide insights and encourage visitors to interact with the exhibits, making it an educational and enjoyable visit for families, history enthusiasts, and school groups alike.Community and Cultural Role
Beyond its role as a museum, Staircase House serves as a cultural hub within Stockport. It hosts creative workshops and events that connect the community with local history and heritage. Its proximity to other attractions like the Indoor Market and Stockport museums makes it an integral part of the town’s cultural landscape, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into Stockport’s evolution through the ages.Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
Staircase House exemplifies the importance of preserving historic buildings as living museums. Its restoration and ongoing care ensure that Stockport’s architectural and social history remains accessible and relevant. The house invites reflection on the lives of ordinary people across centuries, making history tangible and personal. It stands as a proud symbol of Stockport’s identity and a beacon for heritage conservation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Bramall Hall
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Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
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Ashburne Tree Man
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Marie Louise Gardens
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Platt Fields Park
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Alexandria Library
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The Monastery Manchester
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Victoria Baths
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Whitworth Park
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Educational
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
