Top 25 Exciting Things to Do in Stoke-on-Trent, UK

Alton Towers in Stoke-on-Trent is a paradise for adrenaline junkies! Known for its breathtaking roller coasters like Oblivion and Nemesis, it also offers gentler rides for the less adventurous. Don't miss the riveting Hex - a dark ride with a twisted local legend. Alton Towers is about a 45-minute drive from Stoke and isn't technically in the city, but a visit is a must! Nearby, you can also explore the magnificent Trentham Gardens with its sprawling estate and Italianate design.

The National Trust - Biddulph Grange Garden is a garden lover's paradise. Discover the secret corners, the countless exotic plants and the beautifully designed gardens, each inspired by different landscapes of the world. Each path holds a surprise - a tunnel here, a bridge there. Children will delight in the Dahlia Trail, and don't miss the Stumpery, a fairy-tale forest. Nearby, you can explore the stunning Biddulph Grange Country Park and extend your day in nature.

Venture into the unique Trentham Monkey Forest, home to 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques. Be enchanted as you walk along the tranquil 3/4 mile forest trail while the monkeys hop above and around you. A visit here is a unique encounter with wildlife!

Experience the enchanting charm of Trentham Estate, the hidden gem of Stoke-on-Trent. Stroll through the enchanting Italian gardens, explore the fairytale woodland walk or watch the exotic monkeys in the Monkey Forest. It's not just a place, but an experience that offers shopping, dining and exciting events. For plant lovers, the Plant Center offers a variety not found anywhere else! Nearby is the famous Potteries Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing the city's remarkable pottery heritage.

A visit to Trentham Gardens is a must when visiting Stoke-on-Trent! Explore the award-winning gardens with their vibrant flowers and tranquil lakes. Are you feeling adventurous? Explore the mile-long Capability Brown lake on a barefoot trail. Top tip: Don't miss the magical fairy trail. Also just a short drive away is the famous World of Wedgwood, where the tradition of pottery meets modern design. Stoke-on-Trent offers the ideal mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Venture to picturesque Rudyard Lake, where tranquility meets adventure. Here you can take a delightful ride on the miniature steam train or indulge in water sports. The scenic hiking trails around the lake are filled with wildlife, a birdwatcher's delight. Don't miss a ride on the Victorian boat "Honey," where the woods are beautifully reflected in the calm waters. Just steps away is Leek with its quirky boutiques and delicious restaurants - a perfect day out.

Mow Cop Castle is a must-see, offering not only historic heritage but also stunning 360-degree views across the Cheshire Plain. Derisively referred to as a "castle," this charming 18th-century summer home is captivating with its unique, craggy outline. Feel yourself transported back in time as you explore the mystique of this place. Don't miss the fascinating "Old Man of Mow," the eccentric rock formation nearby. Just a short drive away is charming Little Moreton Hall - a lively Tudor manor house that offers a glimpse into the past.

Venture into the heart of the "Ceramics Capital of the World" and explore The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery. Marvel at the world's largest collection of Staffordshire pottery, trace 450 million years of history in the Natural History Gallery, and explore the fascinating world of Arnold Bennett. Discover hidden treasures like a Spitfire aircraft and a fascinating Egyptian exhibit. Just a stone's throw away, treat yourself to a unique shopping experience at the Potteries Shopping Centre!

Middleport Pottery in Stoke-on-Trent is a cornerstone of the pottery world not to be missed. It is a living workshop where you can experience traditional pottery techniques first hand. Take a guided tour and discover the inner workings of the famous Burleigh pottery, uniquely made here since 1889. A quaint café and well-stocked visitor store await you. Across the Trent and Mersey Canal, you can visit the beautifully preserved Victorian Anderton Boat Lift, a marvel of engineering!

Looking for greenery amidst the hustle and bustle of the city? Visit Hanley Park - the jewel of Stoke-on-Trent. Be enchanted by the stunning Victorian architecture and beautifully preserved bandstand. You can take part in the popular park run or just enjoy the view. Locals' tip: Try out the charming café - it's a real treat! It's also just a stone's throw from the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, home to a world-class ceramics collection. Indeed, Stoke-On-Trent offers double the pleasure for all ages!

Escape into a world of outdoor fun at the National Forest Adventure Farm. Set on more than 40 acres of corn mazes, animal encounters and tractor rides, it offers a unique blend of exciting adventures and relaxing encounters with nature. This holiday season, don't miss the North Pole Adventure, a magical journey popular with locals. Nearby you will find Conkers Discovery Centre, another great attraction where you can continue your exploration of the stunning landscapes of the National Forest.

Immerse yourself in nature's charms and explore Westport Lake Visitor Centre, Stoke-on-Trent's largest body of water. Find peace while viewing the enchanting mix of vibrant wildlife and calm waters. Delight in the picnic and play areas, and don't miss the enchanting woodlands that line the lake - they're an Instagrammer's paradise. Need some refreshment? 'The Pavilion' café offers delicious treats. Nearby Middleport Pottery, a beautifully preserved Victorian pottery, offers a fascinating glimpse into Stoke's ceramic heritage.

Venture into the magnificent expanse of Weston Park, Stoke-on-Trent's tranquil green oasis. Experience the historic elegance of the country house, lose yourself in the beautifully manicured gardens, and marvel at the vast 1,000-acre wildlife park.

Discover the beauty of Apedale Community Country Park. Breathe in the fresh air and explore the many hiking trails teeming with native wildlife. Apedale isn't just a park, it's a history book - you can go fossil hunting in the former coal mine. A special treat: The Apedale Valley Light Railway runs on weekends. Visit the nearby Potteries Museum and Art Gallery to admire world-class ceramics and art. Stoke-on-Trent is an adventure waiting to unfold.

Stafford Castle, an imposing structure with a history dating back over 900 years, is undoubtedly an important stop in Stoke-on-Trent. Imagine walking in the footsteps of the ancient Normans, marveling at the magnificent remains and enjoying the stunning panoramas of Stafford. Just 2.5 miles away, let your curiosity run wild at the Ancient High House, England's largest timber-framed townhouse. Enjoy these thriving cultural treasures and listen to local stories told by the wind.

Experience the rich heritage of the "Potteries" at Gladstone Pottery Museum. Discover how fine bone china was made in original workshops and towering bottle kilns, and even try your hand at pottery yourself! Don't miss the stunning Victorian toilet exhibit - a quirky favorite of visitors. Just a short drive away is the Etruria Industrial Museum, a historic gem that features a steam-powered canal elevator dating back to 1903. Stoke-on-Trent is a true paradise for history buffs and pottery enthusiasts alike.

Visit the unspoiled oasis of Knypersley Reservoir, a hidden gem in Stoke-on-Trent. Relax in the tranquil setting and admire the beautiful scenery. Indulge your senses by listening to the enchanting bird calls, or take relaxing walks along the green paths. Take in the enchanting views from The Lady in the Water dam. Bring a picnic and folding chairs for a relaxing outdoor meal. Just steps away is the fabulous Greenway Bank Country Park. Connect with nature at this enchanting retreat.

Discover a hidden gem in Stoke-on-Trent with the Churnet Valley Railway-Kingsley and Froghall Station. It's a journey to a bygone era, where you can enjoy the romantic charm of steam-powered trains while admiring the stunning Staffordshire countryside. The nearby Black Lion Pub, an insider's tip, offers nostalgic beers and hearty meals. Just a stone's throw away, the enchanting Alton Towers, Britain's largest theme park, promises thrills and excitement, making your trip twice as memorable!

Burslem Park is a hidden Victorian gem in Stoke-on-Trent that is full of history and natural beauty. Amidst the verdant serenity, stroll along the spacious walkways lined with original grandstands, fountains and statues. Let the kids visit the exciting playground while you gaze at the gorgeous flowerbeds. Just a short walk away is the historic town of Burslem, famous for its pottery. Don't miss the Burslem Park Tree Trail, where you can discover magnificent tree species.

Visit Central Forest Park for an invigorating touch of nature amid Stoke-on-Trent's urban surroundings. The park's expansive green spaces, lakes and playgrounds offer plenty of room for picnics, sports and leisurely strolls. Here you'll find local families feeding ducks and skateboarders perfecting their skills at the region's largest skate park. Hanley Park, just 15 minutes away, offers fantastic canoeing. Don't miss the park's fascinating mosaic painting, created by local volunteers.

The Chatterley Whitfield Colliery Heritage Centre is a time capsule of coal mining, showing you a significant slice of Stoke-on-Trent's rich industrial past. Marvel at the network of impressive above-ground buildings, each telling a unique story of coal mining. Be sure to visit Winstanley Shaft, which is a real feast for the eyes with its remarkable 350-foot height. Don't miss the hidden gem of Burslem Park, a Victorian park that captivates with its sculpted landscapes and beautiful flower gardens.

Explore the stunning World of Wedgwood, a unique visitor experience that celebrates iconic British craftsmanship. Here you can immerse yourself in 250 years of history, art and culture reflected in porcelain pieces. Try your hand at pottery and create your own masterpiece alongside master artisans. And after you're immersed in history, explore the pristine gardens and dine at the exquisite tea room. Just a short drive away is Trentham Estate, where you'll enjoy stunning lake views, formal gardens and a shopping village. Discover the remarkable treasures of Stoke-on-Trent.

Immerse yourself in the history of the Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow, a uniquely preserved Neolithic henge monument in Stoke-on-Trent. Enjoy the captivating atmosphere as you explore this archaeological curiosity that breathes life into 5000-year-old stories. Don't miss the hidden detail of carefully placed stones representing the phases of the moon! Pro-tip: Combine your visit with a trip to nearby English Heritage site Peveril Castle, just a 20-minute drive away, for a full day of historical discovery.

Experience the golden age of travel at Foxfield Steam Railway in Stoke-on-Trent! Imagine the thrill of a ride on an old steam train as it winds through the Staffordshire countryside. You'll be delighted by the authentic ticket office, workshops, and museum of railroad memorabilia. There's also a cozy tea room where you'll be served. Don't miss the occasional themed events like 1940s weekends and ghost trains! Just around the corner is Blythe Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Moorlands.

Longton Park, also known as Queen's Park, is a hidden gem in Stoke-on-Trent. It's the only park in the city to be awarded a Green Flag, highlighting its high quality and is a haven for wildlife. Join the locals and feed the ducks by the picturesque lake, play a game of bocce, or simply admire the stunning Victorian architecture of the clock tower and three-story grandstand. Here's a tip: don't miss the beautiful floral displays! Just around the corner you'll find the charming Gladstone Pottery Museum.