Stoke-on-Trent, also known as the Potteries, is a city in Staffordshire, England, rich in history and culture. It is a great destination for families looking for an exciting and educational holiday. From world-renowned pottery factories to picturesque parks, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit in Stoke-on-Trent that will keep the whole family entertained.
From pottery-making workshops to scenic walks, several activities and attractions will surely delight visitors of all ages. According to the report by Stoke Sentinel, around 5.5 million visitors visit the place each year, boosting the city’s economy by £365 million.
This article will explore six of the best things to do and places to visit in the city when on holiday with family. So, pack your bags and prepare for a fun-filled family holiday in the Potteries.
Hire a Minibus to Enjoy the Tour with Family and Friends
One of the best ways to explore the sights and sounds of the city with your loved ones is by hiring a minibus. It is a great way for families and groups of friends to travel together and enjoy the city’s many attractions without the hassle of multiple cars. In addition, with a minibus, you can easily visit multiple attractions and locations in the city on your own.
With a minibus hire, Stoke-on-Trent, you can travel together to other nearby cities, such as Manchester, Liverpool, or Birmingham, to explore the different sights and sounds of the region. Hiring a minibus also ensures that you can sit back and relax as you take in the sights of the Potteries without having to worry about navigating or parking.
1. Visit the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery
To see examples of pottery from different eras, including Roman and medieval pottery and pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries, visit the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery.
This museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich history and culture of the city, specifically the pottery industry that has been a major part of its heritage for centuries. The museum has a wide range of exhibits that cover the history of pottery-making in the area, from its early days to the present.
In addition to pottery, the museum also has a fine art collection, including works by local and international artists. In addition, the gallery has a mix of contemporary and traditional artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
2. Take a Trip to Trentham Estate
This estate is home to Trentham Gardens, one of the country’s most beautiful and well-maintained gardens. According to news from BBC, the estate is spread over 725 acres of land and has been owned by the Duke of Sutherland for over 400 years. The gardens feature a wide range of plants and flowers and beautiful sculptures, and water features.
One of the main highlights of Trentham Estate is the Trentham Monkey Forest. It is a unique attraction where visitors can see and interact with a troop of 140 Barbary macaques in a natural forest setting. It is a great opportunity for families to learn about these fascinating creatures and observe their behavior in a natural environment.
The estate also features a lake where visitors can take a boat trip and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The lake is also home to several waterfowl, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
3. Explore the World of Wedgwood
The Wedgwood Visitor Center is located in Barlaston, just outside Stoke-on-Trent, and offers a variety of tours and workshops for visitors of all ages. Exploring the World of Wedgwood is a great way for families to learn about the history and artistry of one of the most famous pottery brands in the world.
The factory tour is one of the main highlights of the Wedgwood Visitor Center. It takes visitors on a journey through the different stages of pottery production, from the initial design process to the final glazing and firing. This tour offers a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship and skill of creating each Wedgwood piece.
4. Visit the Alton Towers Theme Park
Alton Towers is a popular theme park near the city, and it is a great destination for families looking for an action-packed day out. The park features various rides and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages.
The park features a variety of family-friendly rides, such as the runaway mine train, which takes visitors on a journey through an abandoned mine, and the Duel, an interactive laser ride.
One of the best parts of Alton Towers is its roller coasters, which include some of the most thrilling and technologically advanced rides in the world. From the Oblivion, the first vertical drop roller coaster in the world, to the Wicker Man, the first wooden roller coaster to feature fire, there are plenty of options for thrill-seekers.
5. Go on a Canal Boat Ride
The Trent and Mersey Canal, which runs through the city, offers a variety of canal boat rides. The canal is 93 miles long, and it takes a week to complete the length, which includes four tunnels and 73 locks, as per Canal Junction.
Going on a canal boat ride is a great way for families to explore the picturesque scenery and rich history. Visitors can see the city differently and learn about its history and heritage.
There are a variety of canal boat rides to choose from, including short trips that take visitors on a leisurely tour of the local waterways. The longer trips take visitors through the city’s heart and into the countryside.
The canal boat rides offer a relaxing and peaceful experience and an opportunity to see wildlife and nature up close. Visitors can spot a variety of birds and other wildlife along the way and learn about the local flora and fauna.
6. Visit the Hanley Park
Hanley Park is a great place to enjoy a stroll, have a picnic, or relax and soak up the area’s natural beauty. It has beautiful gardens which feature a wide range of plants and flowers, including a rose garden, a rock garden, and an herb garden. The park also features a lake and a playground, making it a great spot for families with children.
Hanley Park hosts many events and festivals, such as concerts, food festivals, and fireworks displays throughout the year. It’s a perfect place to relax, unwind, and make memories with the family.
The Place Offers Something for Everyone
Stoke-on-Trent offers a wide range of activities and attractions for families looking for a fun and memorable holiday. From visiting the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery to exploring the World of Wedgwood and visiting the Alton Towers theme park, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for thrills and excitement or relaxation and tranquility, the place is the perfect destination for a family holiday. With so much to see and do, you’ll be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.
