Shopping Stoke's Potteries

The City of Stoke-on-Trent, known as 'the Potteries,' actually consists of six towns, each with their own sense of history, character and identity: Burslem, Fenton, Hanley, Longton, Tunstall and Stoke itself. All six owe their existence to the rich seams of coal and clay in the area which originally would have been mined at or near the surface. Both coal and clay were mined by the Romans and excavations at Trent Vale in the 1950s uncovered a pottery kiln and workshop dating from the 1st century ad. But it was in Burslem in the 16th century that the pottery revolution got underway, thanks largely to the efforts of one man, Josiah Wedgwood.

In addition to being a talented craftsmen and an astute businessman, Wedgwood was also an innovator - he was the first to establish a factory for making fine pots. Until then pottery had been a cottage industry, but Wedgwood's Burslem factory set a new standard, and before long similar buildings were springing up all over Stoke. Today, Burslem still boasts the highest concentration of potteries in the city.

The walk starts at the Royal Doulton visitors' centre is housed in the original Doulton factory building, first bought by Sir Henry Doulton in 1877. It was here that far-sighted Art Director Charles Noke was responsible for reviving the Staffordshire tradition of china figurines by creating the now famous Royal Doulton figure collection. Here visitors can explore the world's largest collection of figurines and take a fascinating factory tour (they begin at 10:30am and 2pm on weekdays, 1:30pm on Fridays).

Just down the road is the Dudson Cash and Carry (open to the public 9-5, Monday to Friday) has been in business for over two centuries and specialises in producing tableware for the catering industry, but the shop has been opened to meet a demand for reasonably priced fine quality tableware. Cobridge Stoneway, a bit further on, is a relative newcomer, less than 10 years old, but has already made a name for itself as an innovative and creative producer of hand--painted pieces.

Next up is the Moorcroft Pottery and Factory Shop, complete with original bottle kiln and open daily except Sunday. Like Royal Doulton, Moorcroft has been making fine china for over 100 years and despite near-bankruptcy in the mid-80s it now employs eight designers to make every single piece by hand.

While you're there

Ford Green Hall, a mile (1.6km) north east of Sneyd Hill, is a 17th-century, timber-framed farmhouse with a museum, Tudor garden and tea room. Although it may not seem welcoming (or even open!) from the outside, it has been lovingly restored and furnished with an outstanding collection of local textiles, ceramic and furniture. It's open Sunday to Thursday, 1-5, all year (nominal fee).

Where to eat and drink

The Moorland Inn is part of the Brewer's Fayre chain and offers a varied, good-value menu of traditional pub food mixed with Tex-Mex classics. There are picnic benches in the summer (although the traffic may persuade you otherwise) and food is served 11:30am to 10pm, seven days a week, year round.

What to look for

The walk wouldn't be complete without taking time to soak up the views of Burslem and the rest of Stoke from the good vantage point at the top of the Sneyd Hill. Burslem Park (near the end of the walk) is an ideal spot for a picnic, or for a short extension to get away from the noise of this thriving region.