Gladstone Pottery Museum: Living History of Staffordshire Ceramics
Step into a living Victorian pottery factory and discover the rich heritage of Staffordshire ceramics at Gladstone Pottery Museum.
The Gladstone Pottery Museum in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, is a preserved Victorian pottery factory offering an immersive glimpse into Staffordshire’s rich ceramics heritage. Visitors explore original bottle ovens, historic workshops, and engaging exhibitions that reveal the craftsmanship behind iconic pottery. With a charming café serving local crockery and a lively atmosphere, it’s a captivating cultural experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Gladstone Pottery Museum
- Uttoxeter Rd, Stoke-on-Trent, Longton, ST3 1PQ, GB
- +441782237777
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least a full afternoon to explore the extensive workshops, bottle ovens, and exhibitions thoroughly.
- Visit the on-site café to enjoy locally served treats on traditional Staffordshire pottery.
- Check the museum’s website for current opening hours and consider booking tickets in advance, especially during busy seasons.
- Look out for live demonstrations by skilled potters to see traditional techniques in action.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus Combination
From Stoke-on-Trent railway station, take a local bus towards Longton; the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance. The fare typically ranges from £3 to £5.
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Car Travel
Driving from central Stoke-on-Trent to Gladstone Pottery Museum takes about 15 minutes. Limited parking is available on-site and nearby streets. Parking is usually free but can be busy during weekends and holidays.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Stoke-on-Trent city center to the museum takes around 15 minutes, costing approximately £8 to £12 depending on traffic.
Gladstone Pottery Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gladstone Pottery Museum
A Window into Staffordshire's Pottery Legacy
Nestled in the heart of Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, the Gladstone Pottery Museum stands as a remarkable testament to the region’s pivotal role in the global ceramics industry. This living museum preserves one of the last remaining bottle kiln factories in England, offering visitors a rare chance to step back into the Victorian era when pottery production thrived here. The museum’s authentic setting showcases the tools, techniques, and daily lives of the skilled workers who shaped Staffordshire’s world-renowned pottery tradition.Exploring the Historic Bottle Ovens and Workshops
Central to the museum’s charm are its iconic bottle ovens—large, conical brick structures once used for firing pottery. These ovens, now silent, evoke the intense heat and labor that defined the industry. Around them, original workshops are meticulously maintained, allowing you to witness traditional potting wheels, decorating studios, and glazing areas. Demonstrations by expert craftspeople bring the processes vividly to life, illustrating how raw clay was transformed into delicate ceramics.Engaging Exhibitions and Cultural Significance
Beyond the factory floor, the museum offers exhibitions that delve into the social history of the pottery industry, including the lives of workers and the evolution of design styles. It also celebrates the local cultural impact, notably as the filming location for the popular television series 'The Great Pottery Throw Down.' The displays balance technical insight with human stories, enriching visitors’ understanding of the region’s heritage.A Welcoming Atmosphere with Local Flavors
The on-site café enhances the visit, serving delicious treats and beverages on charming local crockery, adding a sensory connection to the craft. The museum grounds provide a lively yet relaxed environment where families, enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike can enjoy a full afternoon of discovery. The gift shop offers unique pottery pieces and souvenirs, supporting local artisans and extending the experience beyond the visit.Preservation Efforts and Educational Outreach
As a protected heritage site, the Gladstone Pottery Museum is committed to preserving traditional skills and educating new generations. It hosts workshops, special events, and school programs that foster appreciation for ceramics craftsmanship. This dedication ensures the legacy of Staffordshire pottery remains vibrant and accessible.Planning Your Visit
Open mainly from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours typically from 10 AM to 5 PM, the museum is best enjoyed with ample time to explore its extensive exhibits and demonstrations. Admission is considered good value, with occasional discounts available. Booking ahead is recommended during peak periods or special events to secure entry and enhance your experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Freda's Grave
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Burma Star Island
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Cannock Chase National Landscape
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Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker
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St Mary’s Church, Nantwich
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Tegg's Nose Country Park
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Solomon’s Temple
31.8 km
A scenic Victorian folly atop Grin Low Hill offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Buxton and the Peak District.
Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow
32.0 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow, a historical landmark steeped in mystery and breathtaking Derbyshire landscapes.
Poole's Cavern
32.3 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Poole's Cavern, a geological marvel nestled in the heart of Buxton's scenic country park.
Tutbury Castle
32.8 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning beauty of Tutbury Castle, a medieval marvel in England, where the past meets the present.
National Trust - Hare Hill
33.5 km
Explore Hare Hill, a captivating National Trust garden in Cheshire, where tranquility meets stunning natural beauty in every season.
National Trust - Nether Alderley Mill
33.7 km
Explore the historical beauty of Nether Alderley Mill, a charming landmark in Cheshire that showcases England's industrial past amidst stunning countryside.
Carsington Water
33.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carsington Water, a nature reserve offering outdoor adventures, stunning views, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Derbyshire.
Lilleshall Abbey
33.9 km
Explore the enchanting Lilleshall Abbey, a historical landmark steeped in rich heritage and surrounded by serene landscapes, perfect for tourists seeking beauty and history.
White Nancy
33.9 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Aynsley China Ltd
0.2 km
Historic British bone china manufacturer in Stoke-on-Trent, blending craftsmanship and heritage since 1775.
The Catering Butcher - Factory Shop
0.6 km
Premium quality meats and expert service combine at The Catering Butcher - Factory Shop in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent’s trusted meat destination.
Longton Park
1.3 km
Historic Victorian park in Stoke-on-Trent with lakes, playgrounds, sports courts, and a welcoming community atmosphere for all ages.
Hem Heath Woods
3.6 km
Discover a 100-acre urban woodland sanctuary rich with ancient trees, spring bluebells, and vibrant wildlife on the edge of Stoke-on-Trent.
Hanley Park
4.3 km
Historic Victorian park in Stoke-on-Trent with scenic canals, restored landmarks, inclusive play areas, and vibrant community spirit.
V&A Wedgwood Collection
4.3 km
Discover centuries of Wedgwood craftsmanship and design in this world-class collection nestled in Staffordshire’s scenic countryside.
World of Wedgwood
4.4 km
Discover centuries of ceramic artistry, hands-on creativity, and elegant dining at the World of Wedgwood in Staffordshire’s scenic countryside.
Foxfield Miniature Railway
4.5 km
Experience the charm of steam-powered miniature trains through scenic Staffordshire countryside at Foxfield Miniature Railway.
Foxfield Steam Railway
4.6 km
Experience authentic steam train journeys and rich industrial heritage at Foxfield Steam Railway in Staffordshire’s scenic countryside.
Trentham Mausoleum
5.0 km
Discover the striking neo-Egyptian Trentham Mausoleum, a Grade I listed monument and final resting place of the Dukes of Sutherland in Stoke-on-Trent.
Trentham Estate
5.1 km
Explore 725 acres of award-winning gardens, ancient woodlands, family attractions, and vibrant shopping at Trentham Estate near Stoke-on-Trent.
Hartshill Park
5.2 km
Explore the historic and tranquil Hartshill Park, a lush nature reserve with ponds, woodland, and rich heritage in Stoke-on-Trent.
Etruria Industrial Museum
5.4 km
Step into the world’s only working steam-powered potter’s mill, where Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heart beats on at the Etruria Industrial Museum.
Hulton Abbey
5.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Hulton Abbey, a modest yet historically rich 13th-century Cistercian monastery nestled in Stoke-on-Trent’s tranquil Trent Valley.
Trentham Monkey Forest
6.1 km
Walk among 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques in Staffordshire’s enchanting 60-acre Trentham Monkey Forest, blending wildlife, education, and family fun.
Essential places to dine
The Potters Club
4.1 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Stoke-on-Trent’s distinguished Potters Club.
the QUARTER at Potbank
4.2 km
A dynamic restaurant and event venue blending Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage with vibrant dining and unique indoor-outdoor spaces.
Lunar
4.4 km
Modern British dining inspired by the Lunar Society, set within the iconic World of Wedgwood estate in Staffordshire.
The Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar (located at Moddershall Oaks)
5.4 km
Lakeside dining with fresh local flavors and scenic views at Moddershall Oaks’ elegant Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar.
Orange Tree Bar and Grill
5.5 km
Stylish bar and grill in Stoke-on-Trent offering creative grill dishes, excellent steaks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
85 Secret Garden
6.2 km
Discover the enchanting blend of fine dining, creative cocktails, and soulful ambiance at 85 Secret Garden in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Ostler Restaurant
6.7 km
A charming British dining experience blending historic ambiance with quality cuisine in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Marloes Restaurant
6.7 km
An intimate British bistro in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where seasonal European cuisine and a legendary beef Wellington make every meal feel like a celebration.
The Spotgate Inn
7.1 km
Dine in authentic vintage Pullman carriages at The Spotgate Inn, where historic charm meets hearty British pub fare in Stone.
The Stafford Arms
7.8 km
Historic 16th-century gastropub in Bagnall blending rustic charm with modern dining excellence and warm hospitality.
La Villa Verde
7.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at La Villa Verde, Stoke-on-Trent’s beloved Italian restaurant.
Little Seeds Restaurant
9.3 km
Intimate seasonal dining in Stone celebrating local British produce, sustainability, and a flourishing kitchen garden.
The Wayfarer
9.5 km
A contemporary gastropub in Stone blending British classics with international flair in a cozy, stylish setting.
The Ship Inn
9.8 km
A cozy British pub in Tean offering hearty traditional dishes, friendly service, and excellent value in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Mill at Worston
15.9 km
A charming Staffordshire country pub with seasonal British fare, scenic gardens, and warm, friendly hospitality near Great Bridgeford.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hippie at Heart
4.1 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
Trentham Shopping Village
5.2 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Goomoo
5.2 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Gift Company
5.2 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
The Potteries Centre
5.4 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Festival Heights Retail Park
6.4 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
Roebuck Shopping Centre
7.0 km
A historic-rooted shopping centre blending national brands and local charm in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s vibrant High Street.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
7.3 km
Discover quirky antiques and vintage treasures at Sign of the Times Antiques Ltd, a unique shop in Stoke-on-Trent’s historic Burslem district.
Rogue Boutique
9.5 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Jolu Accessories Boutique
9.5 km
Charming family-run boutique in Stone offering unique gifts, fashion accessories, and beautifully wrapped presents on the historic High Street.
Nike Clearance Store
12.9 km
Discover discounted Nike gear and footwear at Talke Retail Park’s dedicated clearance store in Stoke-on-Trent.
Browse-a-while Ltd. House & Estate Clearance, Auction House, Antiques Buyer, Stafford & UK
18.7 km
Trusted Stafford auction house offering expert antiques buying, estate clearance, and collectibles in a convenient industrial estate setting.
Peccadillos
20.0 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts at Peccadillos, Stafford’s beloved boutique blending tradition, craftsmanship, and personal service.
Guildhall Shopping Centre
20.0 km
A vibrant shopping and dining hub in the heart of Stafford, blending modern convenience with a welcoming community atmosphere.
Primark
20.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sutherland Arms
4.1 km
A welcoming pub and cozy B&B in Stoke-on-Trent offering quality ales, lively events, and comfortable rooms with self-catering facilities.
Basement
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Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife in the Basement, a cool underground bar and events venue in the heart of Hanley.
The Plume of Feathers- With Neil Morrissey
5.6 km
A friendly canalside pub in Barlaston offering fresh local food, Neil Morrissey’s ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and pets.
No.41
7.0 km
A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
The Borehole
8.7 km
A cozy, quirky micro pub in Stone offering local craft beers, a warm log burner, and a famously dog-friendly welcome.
Swan Inn
9.6 km
A traditional canalside pub in Stone offering real ales, ciders, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fitzherbert Arms
9.8 km
Historic Staffordshire pub blending award-winning cuisine, rustic charm, and warm hospitality in the heart of Swynnerton village.
Dog & Doublet Inn
14.4 km
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The Swan With Two Necks
14.6 km
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Saracens Head
17.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub and hotel in Weston offering freshly cooked classics, comfortable rooms, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Staffordshire Bull
17.5 km
A friendly Stafford pub blending local heritage with a welcoming atmosphere and moderate prices for all to enjoy.
The Kings Arms
18.9 km
A friendly, traditional Stafford pub offering quality ales, hearty food, and cozy rooms in a welcoming local setting.
The Lazy Trout
19.1 km
Experience authentic English countryside charm with hearty meals and fine ales at The Lazy Trout in Meerbrook.
The Butler's Bell By Davenports
19.8 km
A lively gastropub in Stafford serving hearty classics, award-winning ales, and all-day breakfast in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Hogarths
19.9 km
Experience Stafford’s vibrant Edwardian-themed Hogarths Gin Bar with its vast gin selection, live entertainment, and cozy social spaces.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
TTL Nightclub
5.3 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife at TTL Nightclub, Hanley’s energetic hub for dance, music, and social nights.
Reflex - Hanley
5.3 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
5.4 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Pink Nightclub, Hanley’s lively late-night venue with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Gossip!
5.5 km
Stoke-on-Trent’s premier gay nightclub with vibrant bars, dance floor, and beer garden offering lively, inclusive nightlife in Hanley.
Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
6.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Reflex, Newcastle Under Lyme’s central nightclub and lounge with lively music and social vibes.
Base 95
15.1 km
Leek’s vibrant nightclub and bar at Market Place, Base 95 offers lively late-night entertainment for a diverse crowd every weekend.
3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
15.1 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
The Club
20.2 km
A lively nightclub and sports bar at Congleton’s heart, blending live music, casual vibes, and affordable fun.
3D Congleton
20.3 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
The Studio
27.6 km
Experience Nantwich’s energetic nightlife at The Studio, a vibrant club known for live DJs, dance music, and late-night fun in the town center.
Mainstreet Nightclub
29.3 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
Level 2
33.2 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Great Rocks Social Club
37.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
We Love Oldskool Nights
41.1 km
Experience the vibrant energy of classic 90s and 2000s R’n’B and hip-hop at We Love Oldskool Nights, the ultimate dance club for nostalgic partygoers.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
41.1 km
A vibrant nightclub and events venue in Wellington, Telford, blending modern style with lively weekend entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
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
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly