Ceramics Trail

Welcome to the Ceramics Trail

Stoke-on-Trent has been shaped by the pottery industry for over 300 years and is affectionately known the world over as 'The Potteries'.

From small-scale beginnings in the mid seventeenth century, the abundance of coal and clay meant that the pottery industry grew and became rooted in the area. The industry flourished through revolutionary ideas and the development of ceramic manufacturing techniques by Master Potters such as Wedgwood and Spode.

The industry has remained in the area thanks to the skills of the local people and today, ceramics is a modern industry and Stoke-on-Trent is still famous for its quality ware which is sold all over the world. Wedgwood, Moorcroft, Aynsley, Burleigh, Dudson, Emma Bridgewater, Portmeirion, Spode, Royal Doulton, and Royal Stafford are just a few of the leading brands you will find in the city. With an unrivalled heritage and very bright future, Stoke-on-Trent is officially recognised as the World Capital of Ceramics.

THE CERAMICS TRAIL EXPERIENCE

Discover

Discover the full story of The Potteries at Stoke-on-Trent's award winning ceramic museums and visitor centres.

Learn

Learn about the skills and processes that go into making the finest pottery in the world by going on a factory tour.

Try

Why not try out some of the ceramic skills for yourself? Stoke-on-Trent has some brilliant hands-on opportunities available.