Middleport Pottery: Living Heritage of Victorian Ceramics in Stoke-on-Trent
Discover the last working Victorian pottery in the UK, where heritage ceramics come alive alongside historic canals and timeless craftsmanship.
Middleport Pottery, established in 1888 in Stoke-on-Trent, is the UK’s last working Victorian pottery still producing world-famous Burleigh ware. This Grade II* listed site combines historic factory buildings, a visitor centre, café, factory shop, and guided tours showcasing traditional handcraft pottery methods. Situated alongside the Trent & Mersey Canal, it offers a unique glimpse into the industrial heritage and ongoing craftsmanship of Staffordshire ceramics.
A brief summary to Middleport Pottery
- Port St, Stoke-on-Trent, Burslem, Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent, ST6 3PE, GB
- +441782499766
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book factory tours in advance as they run on limited weekdays and fill quickly.
- Visit the Packing House Café for locally sourced food served on authentic Burleigh pottery.
- Explore the self-led Heritage Trail to see original Victorian offices, the bottle kiln, and the Bath House.
- Check out the Burleigh Factory Shop for exclusive pottery collections and souvenirs.
- Allow extra time to visit the nearby Harper Street audio-visual exhibition for insights into 1950s pottery community life.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train
Travelers can take a train to Longport station, approximately 1.2 miles from Middleport Pottery. From there, a 15-minute walk along accessible urban paths leads to the site. Trains run frequently from Stoke-on-Trent and Manchester, with ticket prices ranging from £5 to £15 depending on origin.
-
Bus
Several local bus routes serve Newcastle Street in Burslem, about a 10-minute walk from Middleport Pottery. Bus services operate regularly throughout the day with fares typically under £5. Note that service frequency may reduce on Sundays.
-
Car
Visitors arriving by car can access free parking adjacent to the pottery. The site is reachable via main roads from Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas. Parking availability can be limited during special events, so early arrival is recommended.
-
Walking
For those staying nearby, walking routes from Stoke-on-Trent city centre along the canal towpath offer a scenic 60-minute walk to Middleport Pottery. The path is flat but may be uneven in parts, suitable for visitors with moderate mobility.
Middleport Pottery location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Middleport Pottery
A Model Victorian Pottery Preserved
Middleport Pottery was built in 1888 by Burgess & Leigh Ltd as a pioneering example of efficient industrial design in the Staffordshire pottery industry. Unlike the cramped and chaotic layouts of earlier factories, Middleport was designed with linear organization and wide passageways to facilitate smooth movement of workers and goods. Its canalside location beside the Trent & Mersey Canal enabled direct loading of finished pottery onto barges for national and international distribution. The site retains many original features, including a Grade II* listing and a rare surviving bottle kiln, emblematic of Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramic heritage.Continuous Craftsmanship and Regeneration
Middleport Pottery has maintained uninterrupted production of Burleigh pottery since its opening, preserving traditional techniques such as transfer printing and hand painting. By 2010, the site faced closure due to deterioration, but intervention by The Prince’s Regeneration Trust (now Re-Form Heritage) secured a £9 million restoration. This sensitive regeneration conserved the factory’s historic character while upgrading facilities and creating a vibrant visitor destination. The pottery remains operational under Denby Holdings, blending heritage with modern business.Visitor Experiences and Heritage Trails
Visitors can explore Middleport’s rich history through self-led Heritage Trails and guided Factory Tours that reveal every stage of pottery making, from clay to finished ware. The site includes the Victorian Offices, the Bath House, the Mould Store with Europe’s largest ceramic mould collection, and the atmospheric Bottle Kiln. Exhibitions and workshops showcase local artists and traditional craftsmanship, while the canal-side Packing House Café offers locally sourced food served on Burleigh ware.Community and Cultural Significance
Middleport Pottery is more than a factory; it is a cultural landmark embodying the industrial heritage of Stoke-on-Trent and the resilience of its community. The site supports creative enterprises and educational programs, fostering skills in traditional crafts. Its regeneration has revitalized the surrounding area, including Harper Street, where visitors can experience historical audio-visual exhibitions depicting life in the potteries during the 1950s.Architectural and Industrial Legacy
The pottery’s design, led by architect A.R. Wood and visionary Edmund Leigh, was revolutionary for its time. It integrated covered walkways, efficient layouts, and worker-friendly features, setting a new standard for industrial production. The surviving bottle kiln and steam engine are iconic reminders of Stoke-on-Trent’s role as the world’s ceramic capital. Middleport stands as a rare living example of Victorian industrial architecture still in active use.Engagement and Accessibility
Open daily from 10am to 4pm, Middleport Pottery welcomes families, ceramic enthusiasts, and cultural tourists. The site offers accessible tours and facilities, a factory shop with exclusive Burleigh collections, and hosts community events. Its location beside transport links including Longport railway station and bus routes makes it an accessible heritage destination within the Potteries region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burma Star Island
18.3 km
A serene memorial island in Crewe honoring the courage and sacrifice of World War II’s Burma Campaign heroes.
Stafford Castle
27.4 km
Explore the stunning Stafford Castle, a medieval marvel that offers a captivating journey through England's rich history and picturesque landscapes.
National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
28.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside, a nature reserve rich in scenic views, outdoor adventures, and local history.
White Nancy
28.9 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Solomon’s Temple
29.6 km
A scenic Victorian folly atop Grin Low Hill offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Buxton and the Peak District.
Knutsford Obelisk
29.9 km
An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
Bunbury Mill
29.9 km
Explore Bunbury Mill: A historic flour mill in Tarporley, Cheshire, showcasing traditional milling techniques and the beauty of the English countryside.
Poole's Cavern
29.9 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Poole's Cavern, a geological marvel nestled in the heart of Buxton's scenic country park.
National Trust Shugborough Estate
30.7 km
Explore the National Trust Shugborough Estate, a historical gem in Staffordshire featuring stunning gardens, rich history, and breathtaking architecture.
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens
31.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, a serene escape in Cheshire blending nature, history, and enchanting beauty.
BeWILDerwood Cheshire
31.3 km
Discover the magic of BeWILDerwood Cheshire, an enchanting amusement park where adventure, nature, and imagination collide for an unforgettable family experience.
The Tabley House Stately Home
31.4 km
Discover the historic charm and artistic treasures of Tabley House Stately Home in Knutsford, a must-see attraction for travelers seeking culture and beauty.
Lion Salt Works
32.3 km
Explore the rich history of salt production at Lion Salt Works, a captivating museum celebrating Northwich's industrial heritage.
Freda's Grave
32.7 km
A touching memorial to Freda, the Harlequin Great Dane mascot of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade, resting in the peaceful heathland of Cannock Chase.
Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre
32.9 km
Discover the enchanting Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre in Tarporley, where majestic Shire horses and serene countryside create unforgettable family memories.
Unmissable attractions to see
Westport Lake Visitor Centre
0.8 km
Discover Stoke-on-Trent’s largest lake with rich wildlife, scenic walks, and family-friendly facilities at Westport Lake Visitor Centre.
Waterworld
1.7 km
The UK’s largest indoor tropical aqua park with thrilling rides, wave pools, and family-friendly fun all year round in Stoke-on-Trent.
Festival Retail Park
1.9 km
A dynamic outdoor retail and leisure destination in Stoke-on-Trent, blending popular high street brands with family-friendly entertainment and dining.
Etruria Industrial Museum
2.7 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.
The Brampton Museum
2.8 km
Explore Newcastle-under-Lyme’s heritage through immersive exhibits, a charming Victorian street, and vibrant community events in scenic Brampton Park.
Eleven
3.0 km
Intimate live music venue in Stoke-on-Trent with top-tier sound, friendly atmosphere, and a strong focus on rock and tribute bands.
Ford Green Hall
3.1 km
A 17th-century timber-framed farmhouse revealing authentic domestic life through world-class collections of textiles, ceramics, and period furnishings.
Apple Tree Town
3.2 km
Explore, learn, and play in a vibrant children's role play town designed to spark imagination and social skills in a safe, family-friendly setting.
Hartshill Park
3.5 km
Explore the historic and tranquil Hartshill Park, a lush nature reserve with ponds, woodland, and rich heritage in Stoke-on-Trent.
Hanley Park
3.8 km
Historic Victorian park in Stoke-on-Trent with scenic canals, restored landmarks, inclusive play areas, and vibrant community spirit.
Apedale Heritage Centre
3.9 km
Explore Staffordshire’s coal mining heritage with authentic underground tours, a rich museum, and heritage railway at Apedale Heritage Centre.
Apedale Community Country Park
4.0 km
Explore Staffordshire’s rich mining heritage and scenic landscapes at Apedale Community Country Park and Heritage Centre.
Hulton Abbey
4.5 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.
Affinity Staffordshire
4.9 km
Discover unbeatable deals and top brands at Affinity Staffordshire, Talke Pits’ premier outlet shopping destination with free parking and Wi-Fi.
The Travellers Rest
7.7 km
Cozy gastropub in Stoke-on-Trent serving hearty British classics with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Ostler Restaurant
3.1 km
A charming British dining experience blending historic ambiance with quality cuisine in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Marloes Restaurant
3.7 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 Potters Club
4.1 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Stoke-on-Trent’s distinguished Potters Club.
the QUARTER at Potbank
4.3 km
A dynamic restaurant and event venue blending Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage with vibrant dining and unique indoor-outdoor spaces.
85 Secret Garden
4.7 km
Discover the enchanting blend of fine dining, creative cocktails, and soulful ambiance at 85 Secret Garden in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Orange Tree Bar and Grill
5.0 km
Stylish bar and grill in Stoke-on-Trent offering creative grill dishes, excellent steaks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Stafford Arms
6.9 km
Historic 16th-century gastropub in Bagnall blending rustic charm with modern dining excellence and warm hospitality.
Lunar
9.9 km
Modern British dining inspired by the Lunar Society, set within the iconic World of Wedgwood estate in Staffordshire.
Pecks Restaurant
11.4 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar (located at Moddershall Oaks)
13.2 km
Lakeside dining with fresh local flavors and scenic views at Moddershall Oaks’ elegant Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar.
The Spotgate Inn
15.0 km
Dine in authentic vintage Pullman carriages at The Spotgate Inn, where historic charm meets hearty British pub fare in Stone.
La Villa Verde
15.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at La Villa Verde, Stoke-on-Trent’s beloved Italian restaurant.
The Wayfarer
15.7 km
A contemporary gastropub in Stone blending British classics with international flair in a cozy, stylish setting.
Little Seeds Restaurant
15.8 km
Intimate seasonal dining in Stone celebrating local British produce, sustainability, and a flourishing kitchen garden.
The Ship Inn
17.1 km
A cozy British pub in Tean offering hearty traditional dishes, friendly service, and excellent value in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Festival Heights Retail Park
1.6 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
1.7 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.
The Potteries Centre
2.8 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Roebuck Shopping Centre
3.6 km
A historic-rooted shopping centre blending national brands and local charm in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s vibrant High Street.
Hippie at Heart
4.4 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
Nike Clearance Store
4.9 km
Discover discounted Nike gear and footwear at Talke Retail Park’s dedicated clearance store in Stoke-on-Trent.
Trentham Shopping Village
8.8 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Goomoo
8.9 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Gift Company
8.9 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
Rogue Boutique
16.1 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Jolu Accessories Boutique
16.1 km
Charming family-run boutique in Stone offering unique gifts, fashion accessories, and beautifully wrapped presents on the historic High Street.
The Market Shopping Centre
16.8 km
Conveniently located in Crewe town centre, The Market Shopping Centre offers a practical and accessible retail experience for everyday shopping needs.
Crafts of Cheshire (Ltd)
19.0 km
Discover handmade gifts and holistic wellbeing products that inspire positivity through scent and colour in the heart of Crewe.
Walk The Line Vintage
21.0 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Nantwich at Walk The Line Vintage.
Cabin Boutique
21.7 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming log cabin boutique nestled within Middlewich’s Hopley House Shopping Village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Basement
2.8 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife in the Basement, a cool underground bar and events venue in the heart of Hanley.
No.41
4.6 km
A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
Sutherland Arms
4.9 km
A welcoming pub and cozy B&B in Stoke-on-Trent offering quality ales, lively events, and comfortable rooms with self-catering facilities.
The Plume of Feathers- With Neil Morrissey
11.3 km
A friendly canalside pub in Barlaston offering fresh local food, Neil Morrissey’s ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and pets.
DV8 Bar & Lounge
13.6 km
A vibrant bar and lounge in Congleton offering excellent cocktails, hearty food, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
The Swan With Two Necks
13.7 km
A stylish gastropub in Blackbrook blending classic British flavours with modern comfort and scenic countryside charm.
Fitzherbert Arms
13.8 km
Historic Staffordshire pub blending award-winning cuisine, rustic charm, and warm hospitality in the heart of Swynnerton village.
The Borehole
15.1 km
A cozy, quirky micro pub in Stone offering local craft beers, a warm log burner, and a famously dog-friendly welcome.
The Beer Emporium
15.5 km
Discover Sandbach’s craft beer gem with a vast selection of ales, a cozy atmosphere, and a welcoming community spirit.
Swan Inn
16.2 km
A traditional canalside pub in Stone offering real ales, ciders, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Boars Head
16.2 km
A charming gastropub near Nantwich serving refined British cuisine in a cozy countryside setting with welcoming service and a lively beer garden.
The Lazy Trout
17.3 km
Experience authentic English countryside charm with hearty meals and fine ales at The Lazy Trout in Meerbrook.
The Swettenham Arms
18.8 km
Traditional Cheshire country pub with scenic gardens, classic British fare, and a charming wedding venue in the heart of Swettenham village.
Dog & Doublet Inn
21.9 km
A charming Arts & Crafts pub and restaurant in Sandon offering warm hospitality, classic British cuisine, and cozy accommodations.
Heath & Moor mobile bars
23.9 km
Discover a unique mobile bar experience with Heath & Moor, offering expertly crafted beverages for your special events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Gossip!
2.6 km
Stoke-on-Trent’s premier gay nightclub with vibrant bars, dance floor, and beer garden offering lively, inclusive nightlife in Hanley.
Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Pink Nightclub, Hanley’s lively late-night venue with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
TTL Nightclub
2.7 km
Experience Stoke-on-Trent’s vibrant nightlife at TTL Nightclub, Hanley’s energetic hub for dance, music, and social nights.
Reflex - Hanley
2.8 km
Energetic and inclusive nightclub in Hanley, offering classic 80s/90s tunes, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
3.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Reflex, Newcastle Under Lyme’s central nightclub and lounge with lively music and social vibes.
The Club
13.5 km
A lively nightclub and sports bar at Congleton’s heart, blending live music, casual vibes, and affordable fun.
3D Congleton
13.5 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
Base 95
14.3 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
14.3 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
The Studio
21.1 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.
Level 2
30.9 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Mainstreet Nightclub
32.3 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
Great Rocks Social Club
35.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
43.2 km
A vibrant nightclub and events venue in Wellington, Telford, blending modern style with lively weekend entertainment.
We Love Oldskool Nights
44.0 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly