There are many local attractions in Stoke that attract visitors from across the world including Trentham Gardens, Monkey Forest, Shopping Village, and historical sites. 

Trentham Gardens

Trentham Gardens is a popular destination for a short 3 to 4-day break. It offers a range of activities and sights, making it one of the most distinctive days out in the country. Here are the key highlights and what you can expect from your visit:  

Key Attractions 

Italian Gardens:  The Italian Garden is a colourful treasure of flower beds and landscapes. There are 80,000 perennials planted in The Italian Garden, in over 400 different varieties, in 70 flower beds. There are two types of planting: European Steppe planting, made up of drought-resistant plants in the beds edged with box. Moisture-loving plants that prefer a rich soil are used in the big lower beds and benefit from the high-water table of the lake.  

Monkey Forest: Trentham Monkey Forest is a unique experience where you can walk among free-roaming monkeys. It is a 60-acre woodland in which 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques call home and live lives remarkably like those in the wild. It is the largest primate habitat in the UK and has been open since 2005! The woodland focuses mainly on the conservation of this endangered primate. Each visit contributes to their conservation and protection. Visitors can walk amongst the monkeys and observe their fascinating natural behaviours from up close. This is the only place in the UK where you can do this, making it one of the most unique days out in the country.  

Shopping Village: Trentham Shopping Village is a charming area with various shops and boutiques. It is comprised of 77 timber lodges housing amazing shops, cafés and restaurants and a lovely and welcoming village atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a distinctive shopping experience at Trentham Shopping Village.  You can buy outdoor gear, fashionable clothing, kitchen essentials, homeware, gifts and much more.  

Historical Sites: Stoke has a lot of historical sites such as Middleport Pottery, Ford Green Hall, Burslem, Gladstone Pottery Museum, Etruria Industrial Museum, Foxfield Steam Railway, Commerce Street Works, Spode Museum. Each site tells its own story and shows the significance, such as: 

Middleport Pottery: Middleport Pottery, a Canalside brick building dating back to 1888 is a popular attraction also featured on the TV show ‘Peaky Blinders.’ The site hosts various events including the upcoming Christmas Lights Switch-on and a special performance of ‘Another Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens. Moreover, it is part of an architectural tour that shows historical buildings in the area, offering insight into their development and modern significance. 

Ford Green Hall: Ford Green Hall is a well-preserved timber-framed farmhouse museum in Stoke-on-Trent. It offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time and experience life as it was over 400 years ago during the ‘Stuart Era’. The house is furnished with authentic 17th-century textiles, furniture, kitchen equipment, and clothing that have remained virtually unchanged since the 1600s. Costumed guides bring the historic surroundings to life with captivating stories about the past residents. 

Burslem: Burslem is often hailed as the ‘Mother Town’ of Stoke-on-Trent. It is one of the six towns that collectively form this vibrant city in Staffordshire, England. Rich in history and culture, Burslem has evolved from its humble beginnings with few houses near its church to a bustling community. The area boasts charming eateries like Rose Fast Food which has become a local favourite for quick bites. 

Gladstone Pottery Museum: The Gladstone Pottery Museum located in Longton on the outskirts of Stoke-on-Trent is a tribute to the city’s renowned pottery legacy. It replicates a coal-fired pottery factory from the Industrial Revolution era and gives a glimpse of the local ceramic industry. Visitors can observe artisans crafting bone China tableware and pottery while also exploring a shop offering unique ceramics and home items. 

Etruria Industrial Museum: The Etruria Industrial Museum tucked away in the centre of Stoke-on-Trent is a fascinating place for both history buffs and inquisitive tourists.  Visitors can watch traditional pottery-making methods in action at this quaint location which has a working Potter’s Mill from 1857.  The museum is a great place to unwind after exploring because it not only displays its antique machinery but also has charming picnic areas along the picturesque canal. 

Foxfield Steam Railway: Founded in 1893, the Foxfield Steam Railway provides a nostalgic 5.5-mile round-trip journey through the stunning countryside of North Staffordshire.  The focal point of the railway’s guided tours is the historic Foxfield Colliery, which was established in 1880. It has a Visitor Centre that highlights the colliery’s background and its significance in coal mining.  Special events, such as Santa specials in December, including mince pies, and a visit from Father Christmas himself, are also available to visitors. 

Commerce Street Works: Longton’s Commerce Street Works is a historic pottery building close to the town centre.  The location is well-known for its two roof-protruding bottle ovens.  Authorities found a cannabis factory on the property in 2016, and the site was damaged by fire in 2019. 

Spode Museum: The famous bone ceramics of the Spode business are on display at the tiny but intriguing Spode Museum in Stoke.  In addition to admiring exhibits of exquisite ceramics, such as the renowned Blue Room featuring hundreds of blue transfer-printed pieces, visitors can delve into the factory’s history.  To shed light on the artistry of these exquisite items, the museum provides demonstrations of raised paste gilding, hand-painting, and transfer printing. 

Activities and Experiences 

The gardens and surrounding areas are perfect for leisurely walks. Italian gardens, Monkey Forest, Shopping Village and Historical Sites give a unique experience where you can enjoy the natural habitat, history, pottery, shopping, dining, all in one place. It is a good place for a family trip where visitors of all ages can find something to enjoy. There are cafes, restaurants, and several food places to explore.  Special events like the Winter Light Trail are occasionally hosted. This event is great for the kids. The tickets are only £20 per adult, but the memories made are truly priceless. 

Practical Tips 

Most people recommend staying in Trentham Gardens over Hanley. Trentham is considered nicer and safer, with better amenities and nearby attractions like the Monkey Forest. If you’re looking for affordable accommodation, consider booking with Emerald Living as they provide the best accommodation in Stoke. For transportation, train is the best option to use as local bus services are available but can be less frequent in rural areas. You may consider taxis, as taxis are easily available and are a convenient way to navigate the area’s hilly terrain. 

Food and Drink 

Stoke is also well known for its oatcakes, local pubs, and for its dining options at places like The Slamwich Club, Little Dumpling King, or Pasta Di Piazza for a variety of cuisines. There is something to suit every taste, whether you’re in the mood for homemade pasta, comfortable noodles, or unusual small dishes. These local favourites provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere in addition to serving delectable meals. Ideal for informal lunches or warm evening meals. 

Conclusion 

Stoke-on-Trent is full of charm, character, and surprises. There is something for everyone here, whether you are exploring centuries of pottery history, meeting monkeys up close in the forest, taking a leisurely stroll through the serene Trentham Gardens, or just relaxing with a warm meal at a local café. It’s a place where lasting memories are made, and it is ideal for a leisurely family vacation or weekend escape.