Staircase House: Stockport's Timeless Medieval Treasure
Explore Stockport’s oldest house, famed for its rare Jacobean staircase and immersive journey through centuries of local history.
Staircase House, Stockport’s oldest surviving townhouse dating from around 1460, is renowned for its rare Jacobean cage newel staircase. This Grade II* listed medieval building offers visitors an immersive journey through centuries of local history, with meticulously recreated period rooms and a compelling audio guide that brings to life the stories of its past inhabitants and the building’s dramatic restoration after a devastating fire.
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 free audio guide available in multiple languages to fully appreciate the house’s history and architectural details.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the visit involves exploring multiple floors and narrow passages.
- Allow time to explore the recreated period rooms to experience different historical eras vividly.
- Check opening hours ahead, especially since the museum is closed on some weekdays.
- Be aware that due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility issues.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent bus services run from Stockport railway station to Market Place, with journey times of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses operate regularly throughout the day. Single fares cost around £2-£3 GBP. The stop is a short walk from Staircase House.
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Train
Stockport railway station is about 1.5 km from Staircase House, with direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly taking around 15 minutes. From the station, a 20-minute walk through town leads to the museum. Taxi services are available outside the station for approximately £5-£7 GBP.
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Car
Driving to Staircase House is possible with nearby public car parks available at Market Place and surrounding streets. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £5 GBP per hour. The historic town centre has some pedestrianized areas, so expect a short walk from parking to the museum.
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Walking
If staying locally, the museum is accessible by foot via paved pedestrian routes in Stockport town centre. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets and narrow passages. Suitable for most visitors but may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
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 Living Link to Stockport’s Medieval Past
Staircase House stands as a remarkable survivor of 15th-century architecture in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Its origins trace back to around 1460, confirmed by dendrochronology of its cruck timber frame. This medieval merchant's townhouse has witnessed centuries of history, from its earliest days possibly housing notable figures such as William Dodge, a 15th-century mayor, to the landed gentry Shallcross family who owned it in the 17th century. The house’s enduring legacy is anchored by its distinctive Jacobean cage newel staircase, installed in 1618, which remains one of only three surviving examples in the UK.The Jacobean Staircase and Architectural Significance
The centerpiece of Staircase House is its intricately carved Jacobean staircase, a rare architectural gem that gives the building its name. This cage newel staircase is notable for its detailed woodwork and unique design, symbolizing the craftsmanship and style of the early 17th century. The house itself, with its timber frame and period features, offers a vivid architectural timeline, showcasing the evolution of domestic buildings over five centuries. Its Grade II* listed status reflects its exceptional historical and architectural importance.An Immersive Historical Experience
Visitors to Staircase House can explore a series of 16 period rooms, each carefully restored or recreated to depict different eras from the medieval period through to the 20th century. These rooms provide a tangible glimpse into the daily lives, furniture, and decor of past inhabitants, making history accessible and engaging. The free audio guide, available in multiple languages, enriches the visit by narrating the house’s stories, architectural details, and the lives of those who lived there, including the impact of significant events like the Great Fire of London on local building practices.Resilience Through Restoration
The house endured two arson attacks in the 1990s, leaving it semi-derelict before a dedicated campaign by the Stockport Heritage Trust and local volunteers saved it from demolition. The painstaking restoration used traditional materials and techniques to revive the building’s historic fabric and its iconic staircase. This restoration not only preserved a vital piece of Stockport’s heritage but also transformed the house into a vibrant museum and educational resource that celebrates the town’s history and craftsmanship.Stories Beyond Architecture
Beyond its architectural and historical significance, Staircase House is steeped in local lore and ghost stories, adding an intriguing layer to its character. Visitors have reported unexplained footsteps and apparitions, particularly around the staircase, enhancing the house’s mysterious allure. These tales, combined with the hands-on exhibits and barrier-free access, make the house a compelling destination for families, history enthusiasts, and those curious about the supernatural.Integration with Stockport Museum
Staircase House forms a key part of the wider Stockport Museum, which includes collections spanning from prehistoric times through the Victorian era, and highlights local industries like textiles and music. This integration enriches the visitor experience by situating the house within the broader narrative of Stockport’s cultural and social history, making it a must-visit for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the town’s heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Queen's Arch
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The Old Quadrangle
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Manchester Histories
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John Dalton Statue
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Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal
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Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) east portal
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Victory Over Blindness
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A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
LS Lowry birthplace
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Hotspur House
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St Clement's Parish Church
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Friedrich Engels Statue
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Historic England
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Canada House, Manchester
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Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Arch of Chinatown
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Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
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Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Peter's Square
0.4 km
Explore the beautiful St Peter's Square in Stockport, a perfect blend of history and nature in the heart of the town.
Hat Works
0.5 km
Explore the UK's only hatting museum housed in a historic fireproof cotton mill with over 1,300 hats and immersive factory exhibits.
moviESCAPE Stockport
1.7 km
Step into cinematic escape rooms at moviESCAPE Stockport, where immersive movie-themed adventures await in a historic Victorian mill.
Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet
2.6 km
Discover unbeatable deals and local charm at Broadstone Mill, Stockport’s vibrant two-floor shopping outlet with over 100 retailers and cozy cafés.
Bramall Hall
4.2 km
Explore Bramall Hall, a captivating Tudor manor set in expansive parkland, where centuries of history and architecture come alive in Stockport.
Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
5.1 km
Historic botanical gardens and wildlife haven in Manchester, blending rich conservation heritage with serene landscapes and community charm.
Ashburne Tree Man
5.6 km
Discover Fallowfield’s iconic Ashburne Tree Man, a living sculpture blending nature and art in a serene urban setting.
Marie Louise Gardens
5.8 km
A Victorian memorial garden where rare heritage trees and urban wildlife create Manchester's most peaceful green sanctuary.
Platt Fields Park
6.1 km
Historic green oasis in Manchester’s Fallowfield, blending heritage, nature, and vibrant community recreation.
Alexandria Library
6.3 km
Discover Alexandria Library, a vibrant second-hand bookshop and community hub in Manchester’s Curry Mile, offering free English classes and local art exhibitions.
The Monastery Manchester
6.6 km
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic revival venue blending historic grandeur with modern elegance for unforgettable weddings and events in Manchester.
Sunny Alley
6.6 km
A vibrant, community-driven alley in Manchester’s Rusholme, alive with culture, art, and local spirit.
Victoria Baths
6.7 km
Manchester’s Edwardian water palace, where ornate tiles, stained glass, and grand pools tell a story of civic pride and community life.
Reflective Passage
7.1 km
Discover Reflective Passage, a tranquil, greened alley in Manchester’s Moss Side where community spirit and urban nature beautifully converge.
Whitworth Park
7.2 km
Spacious self-catered student flats at the heart of Manchester’s University campus with excellent facilities and vibrant community life.
Essential places to dine
Golden Hind
2.7 km
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No 4 Dine & Wine
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The Refuge
8.9 km
A stylish sanctuary blending global flavors and British classics within Manchester’s iconic Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
9.0 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
Habesha Restaurant
9.0 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
9.1 km
Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Tariff & Dale
9.2 km
Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
9.3 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Street Urchin
9.3 km
Bold British seafood and market dining in a modern, plant-filled space with warm service and inventive, seasonal dishes in Manchester’s Ancoats.
Higher Ground
9.3 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
9.3 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
9.3 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Viet Shack Restaurant
9.3 km
Experience bold Vietnamese street food flavors and vibrant fusion dishes in the heart of Manchester’s creative Ancoats district.
Erst
9.4 km
Seasonal sharing plates and natural wines in Ancoats' industrial-chic haven, where Manchester's food scene thrives.
Adam Reid at The French
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Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Vintage Emporium Stockport
1.5 km
Explore a vast treasure trove of vintage fashion, antiques, and homeware in a historic Edwardian cotton mill with a cozy tearoom and free parking.
A Curious Collection
5.4 km
Discover Withington’s charming boutique gift shop offering unique, locally crafted treasures that celebrate Manchester’s creative spirit.
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
8.0 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
Utility Gift Store
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Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
Cute Things By Aggie
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Discover unique handmade gifts and charming homewares crafted with natural elements in Manchester’s cozy boutique, Cute Things By Aggie.
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
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Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
Urban Exchange
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Manchester's Ancoats shopping hub where outlet deals meet industrial chic and canal-side revival.
Stare Society
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Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
INFINITE RUNNING
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needi
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Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
ItsFetch
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Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
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Curvilicious Clothing
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Branded Like A Boss
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Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
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Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorilla
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cask
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The Britons Protection
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Hold Fast Bar
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The Fitzgerald
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The Jane Eyre
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Ancoats' inventive neighbourhood bar serving bold small plates, creative cocktails, and Sunday roasts in a buzzing industrial space—perfect for grazing and lingering.
Lock 91
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Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
The Alchemist New York Street
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Atlas Bar
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Flok
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Dusk Til Pawn
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The Edinburgh Castle Pub
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7Sins, Northern Quarter
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blossom street SOCIAL
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SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Ancoats
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Craft brews from Salford brothers in buzzing Ancoats: hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, burgers, and beats in a multi-level haven.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kable
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Viva Manchester
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Club Tropicana
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Satans Hollow
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Bliss Club Manchester
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YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
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Popworld Manchester
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Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Twenty Twenty Two
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Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Ark Manchester
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Aatma
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Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Mint Lounge
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Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Funkademia
9.5 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Royal Vida Night Club
9.6 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Venue Nightclub
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Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
History Nightclub
9.6 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Educational
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- 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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
