Explore Stoke-on-Trent's History for Free

There's more than 40 free events from 6-15 September at Chatterley Whitfield, Wedgwood, Gladstone, Dudson, Bethesda Chapel and and more.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting the Etruria Industrial Museum, where I joined members of The Heritage Network to officially launch the 2024 Heritage Open Days festival in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire. The museum, situated along the historic Trent & Mersey Canal, provided the perfect backdrop for unveiling this year’s exciting programme of events. As we gathered among the iconic canals and locks, it was clear that this festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the incredible history and heritage that has shaped our region. With more than 40 free events scheduled from 6-15 September, there’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

This September, Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire will be opening the doors to some of their most significant and often hidden historical sites as part of the 2024 Heritage Open Days festival. Running from Friday 6 September to Sunday 15 September, the festival features more than 40 free events, giving locals and visitors alike a unique chance to delve into the area’s rich industrial and cultural heritage.

Heritage Open Days is a national event organised by The National Trust, with thousands of events taking place across the country. Here in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire, the festival has become a key highlight in the local calendar, celebrating the region’s contributions to the industrial revolution, its unique architecture, and the communities that have shaped its history.

This year’s theme, “Routes-Networks-Connections,” is particularly relevant to Stoke-on-Trent, a city whose history is closely tied to the development of transport routes and industrial networks. The festival will shine a spotlight on the city’s role in establishing the Trent & Mersey Canal, a vital part of England’s canal network that supported the growth of the pottery industry and connected the region to the wider world. Through guided tours, special exhibitions, and behind-the-scenes access, visitors can learn more about how Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial past has shaped its present.

There is a wealth of activities and sites to explore during the festival. Industrial heritage enthusiasts can visit Chatterley Whitfield Colliery, and Etruria Industrial Museum, where they can see working steam engines and learn about the history of local industry. The V&A Wedgwood Collection offers an extraordinary look at the history of one of the world’s most famous pottery manufacturers, with rare pieces on display and insights into the life of Josiah Wedgwood.

Those interested in the city’s architectural heritage can explore historic buildings such as Bethesda Chapel, one of the largest non-conformist chapels in the country, and the beautiful St Bartholomew’s Church in Norton. Gladstone Pottery Museum, with its iconic bottle ovens, provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of a Victorian pottery factory, while the Dudson Museum, housed in a bottle oven, offers a more intimate look at one of Stoke-on-Trent’s oldest pottery manufacturers.

In addition to these sites, there are numerous guided walks planned in areas such as Stoke, Fenton, and Longton, where participants can learn more about the local history and architecture. Film screenings, special performances, and talks will delve into topics like “Connecting The Potteries to the World” and “Uncovering St Mark’s” in Shelton, providing further insight into the area’s connections with the wider world.

Many of the city’s museums and heritage sites will be waiving their usual admission fees for the duration of the festival, including Middleport Pottery, Etruria Industrial Museum, and Ford Green Hall. This makes it easier than ever to explore the area’s historical landmarks and discover the stories they hold.

To plan your visits and see the full list of events, you can check the online directory.

Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the 2024 Heritage Open Days in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire offer a unique opportunity to explore the history and heritage of this remarkable region. Don’t miss the chance to connect with the places and stories that have shaped the area’s past and continue to influence its present.

---

A guest post by Jenna Goodwin

Photographer, artist, writer, historian, explorer, animal lover, and nonconformist www.theredhairedstokie.co.uk

---