Staffordshire A Grand Day Out in
&
The Potteries 2019
Sponsored by:
SO MANY PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO!
STOKE-ON-TRENT Stoke-on-Trent is a unique city affectionately known as The Potteries. With its rich industrial heritage it has respectfully claimed the title of World Capital of Ceramics. The city boasts a host of award-winning ceramic attractions, museums, and factory shops as well as outstanding family attractions and beautiful gardens. For information about great places to visit, things to see and do, fantastic events and accommodation in the area... Call 01782 236000 Email stoke.tic@stoke.gov.uk or go to visitstoke.co.uk
VISITSTOKE.CO.UK
Visit
Stoke on Trent
Conveniently positioned between junctions 15 and 16 of the M6, Stoke-on-Trent is a city built on a history of industrial greatness and creative artistic flair. We’ve seen a resurgence of all things that made the city great. From pottery to performing arts and everything in between, we’re home to world-class attractions, incredible talents and creative businesses. The city boasts many ceramic visitor centres, awardwinning museums, authentic factory tours, pottery factory shops, exciting family attractions, beautiful gardens and the exclusive Staffordshire Hoard. Visit the World of Wedgwood to discover new perspectives, broaden horizons, and deepen your understanding of the world and its heritage and culture. Discover the story of Josiah Wedgwood and his lasting influence on industry, society, and local infrastructure and then take a factory tour to see production processes and techniques. Try your hand at the potter’s wheel or create your own bone china tableware in the Decorating Studio. An attraction suitable for all ages, an opportunity to ‘learn by doing’, to shop, eat and explore… The history and heritage of Stoke-on-Trent is brilliantly preserved at numerous locations across the city including at Middleport Pottery and the awardwinning Gladstone Pottery Museum - the most complete Victorian pottery factory in the UK, boasting interactive exhibitions and
a “Flushed with Pride” tribute to toilets past, present, and future! The Potteries Museum and Art Gallery is famous for housing the finest collection of Staffordshire ceramics in the world. These days, however, it is also ‘home’ to the Staffordshire Hoard – the largest ever ‘find’ of Anglo-Saxon gold treasure in the UK – valued by the British Museum at £3.285 million. Don’t miss the return of the British Ceramics Biennial this autumn. Taking place between 7 September and 13 October, the UK’s biennial celebration of contemporary ceramics showcases artists and makers from around the world in Stoke-on-Trent, the heart of the UK ceramics industry. World-famous backstamps such as Wedgwood, Moorcroft, Spode, Burleigh and Portmeirion, along with world-class designers, are the obvious reasons why almost everyone in the world will have heard of Stoke-on-Trent. But even if the behind-the-scenes factory visits, and the opportunity to purchase some of the nation’s finest pottery and bone china remain a key reason for wanting to “make it” to The Potteries in the first place, it is still worthwhile delving a little deeper to discover what else there is on offer. Enjoy a great day out at the Trentham
Estate for shopping and eating out, peace and quiet, fun and action! Visit the awardwinning Trentham Gardens, which have matured into some of the finest gardens in Britain. Indulge yourself in some retail therapy at the Trentham Shopping Village with shops, cafes, restaurants and the vast Trentham Garden Centre. Walk with 140 Barbary macaques at the Trentham Monkey Forest or take a high rope adventure at Trentham Treetop Adventures. The Trentham Estate has a great events programme throughout the year to suit everyone – from nature lovers, to the green fingered and active kids to music lovers – all set in a truly stunning setting. Stoke-on-Trent is home to incredible entertainment venues and outstanding theatres. These include the New Vic Theatre, the theatre in the round which has built a reputation for innovative productions of both new and classic works. The Cultural Quarter in the City Centre houses the Regent Theatre, a beautifully restored Art Deco theatre offering a high quality programme of grand opera, national ballet, drama, and West End musicals; and the Victoria Hall an outstanding concert hall offering a wide range of concerts, events, and stand-up comedians. For further information and inspiration, head to www.visitstoke.co.uk
GLADSTONE POTTERY MUSEUM Museum Opening times: Tuesdays ‐ Saturdays and Bank Holidays: 10am ‐ 5pm Gladstone Pottery Museum is the only complete, preserved Victorian pottery factory with a cobbled courtyard, towering bottle ovens and pottery workshops. Find out about how potters prepared, made and decorated pottery which was fired in the coal burning kilns at this welcoming, hands‐on attraction. Demonstrations ‐ At Gladstone you can see professional ceramicists demonstrate pottery skills including throwing pots, making bone china flowers, casting and decorating. Have‐a‐go activities ‐ Try your hand at pottery skills and create your own masterpiece to take home as a unique souvenir of your visit to the museum.
Uttoxeter Road, Longton, Stoke‐on‐Trent ST3 1PQ Telephone: 01782 237777 Email: gladstone@stoke.gov.uk
stokemuseums.org.uk/gpm
WELCOME to A Grand Day Out in
Staffordshire & the Potteries
With a huge range of ideas, destinations and attractions to discover, no matter what your taste or age, you will be spoilt for choice. From beautiful landscapes and stunning views to Stately Homes and Gardens, Steam Rides to Museums the Derbyshire boasts a rich variety and selection for you. There is something for everyone no matter how old or young you are. So be inspired, plan your next adventure and discover what the Staffordshire has to offer. We hope you enjoy reading through the magazine and that it gives you some inspiration for those family days out! Published by ProDigital Media AEM Media House 21 Northcote Avenue Manchester M22 9AJ
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potteriesmuseum.org.uk
Discover the heritage of Staffordshire at The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery with fabulous displays on local wildlife, archaeology, social history, fine art and ceramics. It is home to a treasure trove of objects from priceless Anglo-Saxon gold to the famous Slipware Owl featured on the Antiques Roadshow. The museum has a very strong family friendly offer with dedicated sections of our permanent galleries designed to appeal to younger children. These include animation videos, dressing up areas, colouring in sheets and a Secret Garden. It is also shortlisted for the prestigious Kids in Museums Awards 2019 which honours annually one museum, gallery, historic home or heritage site in the UK that goes the extra mile to provide a great experience for families. Visit our Anglo-Saxon gallery which contains the Staffordshire Hoard, the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon treasure ever discovered. Uniquely, the majority of the hoard is made up of fragments from high-status weapons and armour fittings. Many of the objects are unparalleled discoveries and are transforming our understanding of Anglo-Saxon England and its connections with the rest of the world. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the discovery of the Hoard, the museum is holding the first, ever, Staffordshire Hoard Festival throughout July which will include talks, re-enactment, demonstrations on the Hoard helmet reconstruction and an AngloSaxon birds of prey presentation. Festival of Archaeology Saturday 20 July Try your hand at metal detecting and panning for gold, see how the grave of an Anglo-Saxon warrior is excavated, match skulls with a zooarchaeologist, and meet experts from the worlds of archaeology and science. Free, 11am
Birds in Anglo-Saxon Art and Folklore Thursday 25 July Meet a beautiful collection of live raptors and listen to the story of how birds became the princes of Saxon England! Free, 11am Saxons in Stoke – King Penda and the Princess Thursday 25 July Join King Penda and his Saxon court as they welcome a visiting princess and meet an array of colourful characters as they bring the Saxon world to life. Our summer exhibition this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Apollo Moon Landings when Man first set foot on the Moon. The exhibition forms part of a global commemoration of Apollo 11, to remind those who lived at the time of the excitement and wonder of reaching another world, and to introduce to a new generation the history of humankind’s greatest adventure – the exploration of space. The display features 50 models, memorabilia and multi-media which tell the epic story of the Apollo programme in context with the history of rocketry. Events include – Are We Alien? Saturday 17 August Meet two alien visitors who have come to earth on a research trip. They are fascinated by how humans interact and react to each other. F.A.B. the Story of Thunderbirds Saturday 17 August A talk tracing the history of the iconic Thunderbirds TV series created by Gerry Anderson. Complete with music, rare images and models. 2pm, please book in advance by calling 01782 232323, tickets £5. For further information on our exhibitions and events programme please visit www.potteriesmuseum.org.uk
MOORCROFT Place the Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre and Museum in Burslem within your sights when visiting The Potteries - Britain's favourite art pottery with enthusiasts around the globe. FREE HERITAGE CRAFT TOUR, call 01782 820515 and book your place by uoting AGDT19. Further details moorcroft.com/factory-tour
A Heritage Art Pottery at Sandbach Rd, Burslem, Stoke on Trent, ST6 2DQ en uiries@moorcroft.com moorcroft.com
The adventure begins where... craft comes to life! READER OFFER PURCHASE ANY PIECE OF MOORCROFT & RECEIVE A
20%
DISCOUNT OFF YOUR FIRST PURCHASE. OFFER ENDS 10th DECEMBER 2019. NO OTHER DISCOUNTS, VOUCHERS OR OFFERS APPLY. UOTE AGD19
Lichfield District Family Fun
Lichfield’s rich and varied history comes alive as you Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s year round centre explore the city and district. of remembrance. Explore its maturing woodland, over 360 memorials, the sensory garden and Lichfield District is the perfect spot for a children’s play area. family short break. The city is packed with interesting places to visit, including Lichfield Take a tour or follow our family trail Cathedral, The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum We offer a varied programme of guided tours, and Erasmus Darwin House – all free entry! With including Hideous History, which is packed with seasonal activities and plenty to see and do, all three bloodthirsty tales to entertain children. venues are within five minutes’ walk and are well Or you can go it alone on the Minster Trail, which worth a visit. is a self-guided trail that encourages children to find out fun and interesting facts about the city. It’s free Lichfield Historic Parks, bring together four to pick up from Tourist Information @St Mary’s or distinctive green spaces in the city – the largest of you can download it from which is Beacon Park. Set in over 70 acres of www.visitlichfield.co.uk/minsterstrail gardens and open space, it boasts a large play area, complete with a pirate ship and wooden train. Shopping You can also enjoy boating on the pool, crazy golf, With its pretty streets and modern shopping centre, woodland walks, pond dipping, the Swinfen Broun Lichfield offers a unique shopping experience. Find brass rubbing trail and much more. a rare gift in one of our many independent shops, enjoy the hustle and bustle of the market or treat If you’re staying a little longer, no family trip is yourself at one of our high street stores. complete without experiencing Drayton Manor Market days are Tues, Fri & Sat, with a farmers’ and Theme Park with its hair-raising rides, zoo and 4D craft market on the first Thurs of the month cinema. For a change of pace, the National (excluding January).
Food & drink Feast your eyes on our wide range of cafés, pubs, bars and restaurants in and around the city. Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian, English... you’ll be spoilt for choice with our restaurants offering a great range of mouth-watering dishes. There are also family friendly cafes, including The Green Frog Café, with its soft play area, reading corner, and costumes for little visitors. Relax, unwind and sleep From the historic city centre to the surrounding idyllic countryside, there’s a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Get a good night’s sleep at a cosy farmhouse bed and breakfast, spoil yourself in a stylish boutique hotel, or set up under the stars at a holiday park. For full listing of places to stay throughout the district go to visitlichfield.co.uk/accommodation A place for festivals and events Lichfield is fast becoming known as the City of Festivals. From large-scale nationally recognised 10
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festivals to traditional events, music concerts and food festivals, hardly a week goes by without some kind of entertainment taking place in the city. Highlights include the annual Lichfield Festival, Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park, and the popular Lichfield Cathedral events. See our website for upcoming events at visitlichfield. co.uk/events or visit the Tourist Information desk. You can also order a copy or download our What’s On brochure at visitlichfield.co.uk/brochurerequest Tourist Information A warm welcome is guaranteed at our Tourist Information desk @St Mary’s in the centre of the city next to the Market Square. We are here to help you plan your visit. Contact the team on 01543 308924, email info@visitlichfield.com or go to www.visitlichfield.co.uk
Lifetime memories
made at Shugborough Estate Visit Shugborough Estate and explore tales of sea-faring adventures in the mansion. Explore life below stairs in the servants quarters and explore one man’s ‘perfect paradise'. Our grounds are perfect for burning off some steam followed by a delicious cream tea in our dog friendly cafe. These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/shugborough-estate
Shugborough Estate is the best place to be with your friends and family this summer. Whether you’re looking for a quick breath of fresh air, or a full day of fun with the family, you can do it all at this National Trust property. With the site being open till 6pm, you can embrace the lighter evenings and all that the season has to offer just by scanning your membership card, or grabbing a ticket from reception. As the National Trust is a charity, you are directly supporting the care of the estate by paying it a visit.
Entry to the estate is now just £10 per adult on a Tuesday, with children over 5 just £5 until 27th August. See our extensive collection in the mansion showing the life of Thomas and George Anson. You will also be able to witness our conservation project to return our four enormous wall paintings to their former glory.
Finish your day off with one of our award winning scones from one of the two tea rooms at Shugborough. Both serve hot and cold drinks, freshly baked cakes and biscuits, and some lovely warm meals. Step inside the August is the perfect month to explore the estate in newly refurbished Mansion Tea-room, perfectly located the summer sunshine. Bring your little ones to try and by the shop, and treat yourself to a larger lunch. Or, see how many of our 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ pop into Park Farm Café after your dog walk and grab activities you can complete; fly a kite, skim a stone and a light bite right in the heart of our farm yard. It’s now try to build yourself a den. If they still have some energy dog friendly so your four legged friend can join you too. left, why not head to Explorers Wood, our natural play Staffordshire County Council gave back management of area located just beyond the walled garden. Download Shugborough Estate to the National Trust in November our summer planner, or collect one from Visitor 2016, and the site has been open under the Trust since Reception on your way past and plan your summer March 2017. This means that all members have to do is activities. We’ve got plenty to occupy your little ones to scan their card for entrance to the entire Estate. The from the big butterfly count, to storytelling, chicken site is open year round, only closing on Christmas day. feeding and green fingered activities in our gardens. Pop As a charity, we are directly supported by your visits. into our craft tent every Tuesday and try something new or collect your 50 things activity cards and explore the estate at your leisure.
Explore
South Staffordshire
With over 112 attractions within an hour’s drive of South Staffordshire, there’s a lot to do and see. Whether it’s a day out or a short break that you’re looking for, why not enjoy the delights that this rural district has to offer. Events and activities take place throughout the year and there’s plenty of fun for all the family. www.enjoysouthstaffordshire.co.uk www.enjoystaffordshire.com Twitter @enjoysstaffs www.southstaffordshire.thegoodlife.uk.net Twitter @sstaffsgoodlife www.sstaffs.gov.uk/see-do/events.cfm
Weston Park in Weston-under-Lizard is set in more
than 1,000 acres of park landscaped by Capability Brown. The historic house is open to the public and there’s an array of activities including a woodland adventure playground, a walled garden and the Granary Art Gallery. The Formal Gardens at Weston are recognised as a prime example of Victorian horticultural trends, with the south terrace and its adjacent Italian 16
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Gardens, in themselves design masterpieces, created by the celebrated landscape architect Edward Kemp. It is open to visitors seasonally from March to October; the entire estate including the House, Park and Gardens are open throughout June, July and August whilst the grounds, including Temple Wood and the Woodland Adventure Playground are open seasonally. Weston has a wide range of events including: Behind the Scenes Tour and Afternoon Tea - go behind the scenes to find out more about the 3rd Earl’s lavish house parties. See rooms that are not normally open to visitors and find out more about Weston’s influential Victorian owners. 5 to 7 July 2019 - Camper Jam ’19 (www.camperjam.com) 14 and 15 September 2019 - Midland Game and Country Fair (www.midlandgamefair.co.uk ) Weston Park - www.weston-park.com Other historic houses in South Staffordshire include Boscobel House and the Royal Oak, Moseley Old Hall, Chillington Hall and Himley Hall and Park and Wightwick Manor.
Places to visit Explore Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses, carved from the sandstone cliffs, and enjoy dramatic views and miles of superb walks. The ‘Holy Austin’ Rock Houses are open to visitors at selected times (www.nationaltrust.org.uk). A visit to Halfpenny Green Vineyards is a great day out too. This family-run, 30-acre vineyard offers guided tours and wine tasting sessions and there’s an
acclaimed shop, restaurant, deli and tea room (www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk). Learn more about the history of aviation at The Royal Air Force Museum in Cosford. Housed in wartime hangars, this huge display of aircraft includes the National Cold War exhibition and offers a fun and educational day for all the family. An annual RAF Cosford Air Show takes place in June (www.rafmuseum.org.uk/cosford). WWW.AGRANDDAYOUT.NET
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Discover
Staffordshire’s Top Attractions
Prepare to experience one of the UK’s most successful and thrilling Tropical Aqua Parks. Over flowing with 30 rides and experiences to enjoy, there is no “wetter” way to have an amazing action-packed day. Waterworld is open all year round and even on a rainy day you can experience a tropical environment and exotic temperatures to keep you warm. Waterworld has the widest selection of exciting waterslides from thrill rides to chill rides for all ages. Race family and friends down the four lane Multi slide and see who can reach the bottom first, little ones can enjoy the ride on parent’s laps. Plunge into the depths of the Black Hole and brave the unknown. Experience the radical twists and banked turns of the Twister if you dare. The Space Bowl, a really original water thrill will spin you round and round in a giant funnel then dump you down the plug hole. Our rubber ring ride The Nucleus will thrill all the family with its twists, turns, ups and downs it’s a rollercoaster on water.
When you are ready for a rest dive into some delicious food and drink in our new poolside dining area. No need to get changed, take a leisurely break to dine then jump back into the pool. We have undergone a £1.5 million investment to develop our new dining area, creating a 10,000 square foot extension where diners and parents can sit and enjoy watching their children have the time of their lives in the pools, slides and attractions. Book with us to give your child a magical Birthday party. We have dedicated party hosts that will look after you for your entire visit. We will supply your buffet, drinks, ice cream, party bags and a day to remember.
Waterworld has a dedicated area for your little ones where they can enjoy a wonderland of interactive water play consisting of bridges, nets and gentle slides and know they are safe in the shallows.
Waterworld can accommodate group bookings and even private hires for larger groups or that amazing special occasion. All the Team at Waterworld hope to see you soon for the best day out ever.
Our giant wave pool runs gently from the beach to the deepest depths. You can ride the waves or just enjoy the water lapping round your feet. Drift off into the dark caves of the rapids and be taken around the deserted island with the full force of the tide.
Check us out at www.waterworld.co.uk T: 01782 205747 E: info@waterworld.co.uk
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A Day to Remember Much has changed at the National Memorial Arboretum since planting began over 20 years ago. From a field full of whip trees, a magnificent living tribute has grown.
The 150-acre site presents a rich tapestry of human stories with tales of heroism, tenacity and valour waiting to be discovered. Rich in design and symbolism, the memorials stimulate thought and inspire visitors of all ages and interests. For many, a visit stems from the need for pilgrimage to honour those who have given so much, for others it’s the historical and cultural experience and the chance to learn, and for many more, it’s simply the opportunity to explore and experience art in a beautiful wooded landscape. Whatever the motivation, visitors return time and time again.
Special Events
We hold a range of enjoyable events, activities and temporary exhibitions throughout the year including: Vintage Fair Weekend Armed Forces Weekend Proms at the Arboretum Autumn Festival Remembrance Sunday Armistice Day Christmas Food and Gift Fair Illuminated Arboretum Carols by Candlelight
The riverside landscape sits on the edge of the National Forest in Staffordshire and is easily accessible from major road networks including the A38, A50, M1, M42 and M6 Toll.
Ways to Enjoy the Arboretum General entry into the Arboretum is FREE throughout the year, but a range of activities to enhance your visit are available: • • • • • •
Restaurant and Coffee Shop Exhibitions Guided Walks and Talks Land Train and Buggy Tours Family Holiday Activities Gift Shop
Free Admission – open daily* throughout the year from 9am – 5pm *Closed Christmas Day
National Memorial Arboretum Part of The Royal British Legion
Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire DE13 7AR www.thenma.org.uk
T: 01283 245 100 E: info@thenma.org.uk
Charity No. 1043992
A great day out for everyone! Attractions & Businesses
Amerton Farm is a well known Staffordshire rural destination, which has been open to the public since 1984 and is recognised as one of the first farm diversification projects in the country. Over the last few years we have carried out extensive refurbishment. Amerton has a lot to offer, it’s a great day out for everyone and our aim is to provide quality in countryside for all our customers. You will be sure to receive a warm welcome from all the businesses and attractions based at Amerton Farm. For more information go to: www.amertonfarm.co.uk
Amerton Art Studio Amerton Bakery Amerton Blacksmith Amerton Cakes Amerton Farm Craft & Gift Centre Amerton Farm Butchers Amerton Farm Food Hall Amerton Farm Ice Cream Parlour Amerton Pottery & Paint a Pot Studio Amerton Railway Be Wild Forest School Be.Wild.Er: Outdoor Puzzle Experience Billy’s Farm Barn Brookside Garden Buildings Champion Hot Tubs Children’s Birthday Parties Children’s & School Group Bookings Elizabeth Eloise Hair & Beauty Finney’s at Amerton Farm - Tea Room Finney’s at Amerton Farm - Groups Happy Hounds - Dog Grooming Independent Traders Just Mortgages J.P. Electrical Installations Green Woodwork Nick the Fish (Fishmonger, Tuesdays & Fridays) Painted Country Cottage Furniture Red Lion Farm Ice Cream Sam’s Eggs The Little Bow Top - Romany Wagon Project Tigi Clothing Token of Love - 3D Castings Unique Metalwork - Upcycling Warwick Fairground Wendy’s Wool & Craft Corner
General Admission & Car Parking Free
We are open every day*
9:30am - 5:00pm
(*except Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Years Day)
Last Admission to Billy’s Farm Barn is at 4:00pm and closes at 4:30pm
Amerton Farm Ltd. Stowe by Chartley, Nr. Stafford, Staffordshire ST18 0LA Tel: 01889 270294
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Fax: 01889 271242
www.amertonfarm.co.uk
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Email: office@amertonfarm.co.uk
facebook: Amerton Farm
FAMILY fun days out
The Statfold Barn Railway is an idyllic narrow-gauge if not the world. The Statfold Collection is a unique steam railway and museum set in the beautiful collection of over 60 locomotives which have been Staffordshire countryside. brought to Statfold from all corners of the world and restored at Statfold. Being a stone throw from the large market town of Tamworth, this makes Statfold ideally placed in the Sit on the top deck of the last remaining Burton & heart of England for visitors from across the UK and Ashby Tram as it travels through the Staffordshire further afield. countryside just like it did over a 100 years ago. At Statfold Barn Railway you are transported back in time as you step on board the narrow-gauge carriages to times past on your 3-mile journey through rolling countryside. Alight the train at Oak Tree Halt and the visit the Roundhouse museum & gift shop. Whilst visiting the Roundhouse be sure to pay a visit to our well-stocked shop and treat yourself at Diane’s Diner where delicious food is plentiful. The Roundhouse is home to one of the largest collections of narrow-gauge locos on public display in the UK and
As well public open days, and the steam spectacle of an enthusiast day the Statfold Barn Railway provides a unique venue for private functions, weddings, corporate events and educational tours. Statfold Barn Railway also provides driver experiences suitable for any railway enthusiast.
Visit the Statfold Barn Railway for an amazing day out, with fun for all ages. www.statfoldbarnrailway.co.uk
AFFINITYOUTLETS.COM
Bradshaw's Farm Shop & Cafe Award winning Butchers - Homemade Food - Farm Shop & Deli - Children's play area
OPEN DAILY* Mon-Fri 7am - 5:30 pm Sat 7am - 5pm Sun 9am -3pm
Mon-Wed & Sat 8am - 3pm Thur 8am - 4.30pm Sun 9am - 3pm