Ford Green Hall

A Yeoman's Legacy in Timber and Brick

Ford Green Hall stands as the oldest building in Stoke-on-Trent, built in 1624 for Hugh Ford, a prosperous yeoman dairy farmer who owned 36 acres of surrounding farmland. The house is a fine example of timber-framed construction, characteristic of the period, with a brickwork extension added in the 17th century. The Ford family remained at the hall for nearly two centuries, making it their home and establishing it as a significant local landmark. The building's Grade II* listing recognizes its architectural and historical importance, and the property includes an early 18th-century dovecote—a square brick structure with a plain tiled roof—which shares the hall's protected status.

From Family Home to Museum Treasure

After the Ford family departed in the 19th century, the hall's fortunes declined. The distinctive timber framing was covered in white stucco, and the building was subdivided into three, later four, separate cottages to accommodate multiple tenants. This fragmentation continued until 1946, when Stoke-on-Trent City Council purchased the property. Following careful restoration, the hall opened to the public as a museum in 1952, furnished to recreate the domestic environment of a 17th-century yeoman farmer's household. In 2014, management transferred to Ford Green Hall Ltd, a charitable organization run by local volunteers, ensuring the hall's preservation and continued public access.

A World-Class Collection of Domestic Life

The museum's collection is designated as "Designated Outstanding" by Arts Council England, recognition of its world-class importance. The rooms display an exceptional array of original textiles, ceramics, and furniture from the 17th century, supplemented by carefully selected reproductions that enhance the period authenticity. Visitors encounter domestic artifacts that illuminate everyday life—from cooking implements to decorative arts—arranged within the hall's original rooms. The collection spans decorative and applied arts, offering insights into the material culture, craftsmanship, and social status of the era. Children's interactive displays and handling opportunities, such as marble games and period costumes, make the experience engaging for younger visitors.

Setting and Surroundings

Located in Smallthorne, on Ford Green Road adjacent to the B5051 minor road, the hall now stands surrounded by modest grounds, though it once commanded 36 acres of farmland. The original landscape has been gradually encroached upon by modern housing development, yet the property retains a period garden that complements the historic building. Beyond the immediate grounds lies a nature reserve, creating a green buffer that preserves some of the rural character the hall once enjoyed. The setting offers a quiet retreat from the urban environment, enhanced by mature trees and landscaping that frame the timber-framed structure.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The hall welcomes visitors year-round on a limited schedule, open Sunday to Thursday from 1 to 4 PM, with last admission at 3:30 PM. A free car park is available on site, and ramp access to the ground floor accommodates visitors with mobility considerations, though the building's age means upper floors and stairs present limitations. An onsite shop and tea room serve refreshments, and toilet facilities are available. The museum holds a wedding license, allowing the historic space to host ceremonies. Guided tours are available, with knowledgeable volunteers providing context and stories that bring the 17th century to life. The compact nature of the museum means most visits last between one and three hours, allowing visitors to absorb the collection without overwhelming fatigue.

Restoration and Ongoing Stewardship

In the 21st century, the hall's timber framing required significant repair work, and the building was temporarily listed on the Heritage at Risk Register. These conservation efforts have stabilized the structure and ensured its survival for future generations. The transition to volunteer management in 2014 represented a turning point, allowing the charitable organization to direct resources toward both preservation and public engagement. The hall continues to work closely with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and its museums service, hosting seasonal events and family activities that animate the space and connect contemporary visitors to the lives of those who inhabited it centuries ago.