Claymills Victorian Pumping Station

Claymills Pumping Engines Trust, The Victorian Pumping Station, Meadow Lane, Stretton, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, DE13 0DA

This is one of Britain's largest and most complete restored Victorian steam pumping stations. There are four large beam engines, three of which…

This is one of Britain's largest and most complete restored Victorian steam pumping stations. There are four large beam engines, three of which have been restored to an operational state, plus twenty eight other steam engines. There is a large steam driven workshop and blacksmith's forge and the oldest working electrical generating plant in Britain. The station will not be in steam but you will be given a guided tour of the site and the workshop will be operating using the new fangled electricity instead of steam.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1700
• Sunday 10 September: 1000-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access to workshop, boiler house and the ground floor of the engine houses. Steps above the ground floor. CCTV which allows disabled visitors to see the beam engines in operation.

Additional information

The station will not be in steam for Heritage Open Days. However, it will be in steam on September 23rd & 24th (admission charge)

Directions

A38 Burton North junction. Head towards Burton on A5121 and after only 1/4 mile take first left. Brown signs: Claymills Victorian Pumping Station.

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St. Modwen’s Church

Market Place, Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 1HA

The present building was constructed between 1719 and 1726 on the site of a Benedictine Abbey Church that had fallen into disrepair. The…

The present building was constructed between 1719 and 1726 on the site of a Benedictine Abbey Church that had fallen into disrepair. The architect, William Smith, designed the building so that the entire congregation could see and hear the minister, as the style of worship at the time was centred on preaching. The church is remarkable for the preservation of its Georgian woodwork, with original box pews, galleries and fine sweeping staircases in the two side porches. The tower rises to over 100 feet at the tips of the four weather vanes and has a ring of eight bells cast in 1725 using metal from the original abbey bells.

Information sheets available
Guided ascent of the tower at 1200 and 1400
Display of antique ecclesiastical textiles, prints and documents
Children's discovery trail
Choir concert on Sunday at 1500

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1000-1600
• Friday 8 September: 1000-1600
• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1600
• Sunday 10 September: 1230-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The Market Place is a pedestrianised area with no parking at any time, Disabled parking spaces are in front of the adjacent Market Hall, all others should use public car parks nearby.

Additional information

Max 12 people per tour/session. Light Refreshments served in the afternoons Town centre car parks are within a short walk

Directions

St Modwen's Church ( C of E ) is in the Market Place off the High St. Not to be confused with St Mary and Modwen ( Catholic ) on Guild St.

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St. Paul’s Church Burton

Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, DE14 2EF

On Saturday 9th September 2017 we invite you to come and visit St. Paul's Church in Burton upon Trent. Consecrated on Easter Tuesday 1874. This…

On Saturday 9th September 2017 we invite you to come and visit St. Paul's Church in Burton upon Trent.
Consecrated on Easter Tuesday 1874. This magnificent church was built thanks to the generosity of Brewer, Michael Thomas Bass. Much of the interior was designed by G.F.Bodley. Visitors can visit the Bell Tower housing 10 Bells designed by Taylors of Loughborough. Children can try and find many interesting items through a worksheet. Old records will be avail able for inspection including some marriage certificates dating back to to the late 19th Century. Visitors can also pause and listen to an Organ recital. Vestments will be on display. Refreshments will be available.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1800

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Nearby is the Town Hall and Railway Station

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Cheadle Church Trail

Lulworth House, Cheadle, Staffordshire, ST10 1AR

This event is a walk around Cheadle with visits to three of the town's churches. At each church there will be a small tour/talk. The churches…

This event is a walk around Cheadle with visits to three of the town's churches. At each church there will be a small tour/talk.

The churches are the St. Giles Parish Church, St.Giles RC Church (Pugin's Gem) and the Methodist Church. The Parish and Methodist churches are not generally open to the public.

The meeting place for the trail is Lulworth House on the High Street. The trail will end at the Methodist Church where refreshments will be available.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 13:00-15.00

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Preferred
Contact: Cheadle Discovery Group Call: 01538 753519 Email: contact@discovercheadle.co.uk Booking opens: 1 August 2017 Booking closes: 1 September 2017

Access Information

The whole route will include around one mile of walking, with stops at each church.

Additional information

Max 30 people per tour/session.

Directions

The best place to park is on the Tape Street car park (pay and display), Lulworth House is on the High Street, which can easily be accessed via Greyhound Walk.

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Brindley’s Mill

Mill Street, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 8FA

Brindley's Mill is a working water-powered corn mill dating back to 1752, attributed to James Brindley the canal pioneer. The mill contains a…

Brindley's Mill is a working water-powered corn mill dating back to 1752, attributed to James Brindley the canal pioneer. The mill contains a small museum about James Brindley's life and times. Corn grinding demonstrations and guided tours.

On the Sunday there will also be live folk music in the mill's riverside garden, and refreshments will be available.

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1400-1700
• Friday 8 September: 1400-1700
• Saturday 9 September: 1400 -1700
• Sunday 10 September: 1400 -1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The mill has steps, and access is difficult for physically handicapped.

Additional information

Max 40 people per tour/session.

Directions

The mill is on the main Macclesfield road out of Leek, near to Sainsbury's. Visitors can park in nearby roads or at Sainsbury's.

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Woodhouse Farm and Garden CIC

Woodhouse Farm, Fisherwick Wood Lane, Fisherwick Wood, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 8QG

Woodhouse was created in 1808 from the sale of Fisherwick Hall, once the home of Irish peer Lord Donegal, the farm is made up of the Walled…

Woodhouse was created in 1808 from the sale of Fisherwick Hall, once the home of Irish peer Lord Donegal, the farm is made up of the Walled garden, back lawn to the mansion house and other small pieces of land.

The project at Woodhouse has seen the replanting of the walled garden, which now supplies fruit and vegetables for members of a community supported agriculture project run at the farm. The walled garden predates the 1760 survey taken in preparation for Capability Browns remodeling of the formal Tudor Mansion and Gardens.

Capability Brown's work was only to last approximately 50 years with the new Palladian Mansion being destroyed brick by brick, all that remains are some of the hard landscaping features. The group are slowly clearing a path to the features including a Haha, derelict orangery and bridges. They hope one day to create a circular walk connecting all the features. As a special treat for the Heritage Open Days Annamarie one of the Directors of the group will take you on a guided tour of the work achieved so far. We recommend sturdy footwear and long trousers as we will be covering uneven ground. For those a little less adventurous we welcome you to look around the replanted garden, see the rare breed cattle, pigs and chickens, enjoy refreshments and homemade cake in out community room which includes a display of information about the history of the farm

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1100–1600 Tours 1130 & 1400
• Friday 8 September: 1100–1600 Tours 1130 & 1400
• Saturday 9 September: 1100–1600 Tours 1130 & 1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The main farm area and walled garden is accessible to wheelchairs and pushchairs, the walk around the features is unfortunately not yet suitable. We do have disabled toilets which are a new addition for this year. The grounds beyond the walled garden are not generally open, visitors will have to join a guided tour to see this area. There will be a charge for refreshments and cake.

Additional information

We will have excess garden produce and farm produced sausages in assorted flavors for sale..

Directions

Fisherwick Wood Lane is off Burton Road the main road between Whittington and the A38 (from and too Burton). We are also not far from The Plough at Huddlesford if coming from Lichfield.

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300th Anniversary Heritage Celebration Service & Shared Meal

Newcastle Unitarian Meeting House, Lower Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2UA

Join Newcastle Staff Unitarians for a special anniversary service and shared meal as part of Heritage Open days, as we celebrate the 300th…

Join Newcastle Staff Unitarians for a special anniversary service and shared meal as part of Heritage Open days, as we celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Meeting House being rebuilt in 1717.

All welcome.

Opening Times

• Sunday 10 September: 1045-1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

Next to St Giles Church, opposite Lidl

We are sorry but this event has been CANCELLED

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300th Anniversary Heritage Celebration Weekend

Newcastle Unitarian Meeting House, Lower Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2UA

Join Newcastle Staffs Unitarians in commemorating the 300th Anniversary of Newcastle Meeting House being rebuilt in 1717, after being burnt down…

Join Newcastle Staffs Unitarians in commemorating the 300th Anniversary of Newcastle Meeting House being rebuilt in 1717, after being burnt down by rioters in 1715.

Come and take part in a range of creative family activities, such as windmill making, and view our commemorative wall hangings for the first time when they are unveiled by the Mayor of Newcastle at 12pm.

As part of the day, local Historian Andrew Dobraszczyc will be running a Heritage walk from the Meeting House at 10.30am which will include a tour of the Meeting House and a walk around the vicinity, looking at buildings and sites relating to the history of the Meeting House.

A live graffiti spray will take part in Newcastle town centre as part of the activities and we will be showing short animations created by local school children that show some of the history of the building.

Refreshments available. All welcome. All activities are free.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1030 - 1500
• Sunday 10 September:

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

No access to upper floor in a wheelchair. Toilets on site but not accessible.

Directions

Next to St Giles Church, opposite Lidl.

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Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Newcastle under Lyme

Holy Trinity Church Presbytery, London Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1LQ

Have a guided tour (or wander freely with printed guide map) around this beautifully restored Grade II listed Church, which is of historical…

Have a guided tour (or wander freely with printed guide map) around this beautifully restored Grade II listed Church, which is of historical significance,

See statues of St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More, with engravings by Eric Gill - also relics of Blessed Thomas Maxfield, with illustrated history of his life - all in the martyrs chapel at rear of the Church.

Enjoy looking at photos from our archives, showing the changing face of the church interior, and the way in which our faith has been celebrated throughout the last 170 years.

I-spy activities for children

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1030-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Accessible toilets are available in the parish centre on request, as are baby-changing facilities.

Additional information

Holy Trinity Church was the first Catholic Church in the country to be built openly and publicly, on the main road from London to the North after the Reformation. Fr. James Egan, a dynamic Irishman, began planning the church as soon as the Catholic Emancipation Act was passed in 1829; building started in 1832 and was finished in 1834. Booklets giving a full history of the Churhc in Newcastle before the Reformation, and of Holy Trinity Parish, are available for sale on the day.

Directions

Holy Trinity Church is situated on the A34, just off the roundabout near to Morrison's supermarket and No 1 London Rd. flats (p. blue - very visible) Entry to the carpark is left on Grosvenor road, just after the church and parish centre.

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Keele Hall at Keele University

Keele Hall, Keele University, Keele, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 5BE

The Keele estate was owned by the Sneyd family and the first Keele Hall was built in 1580 and rebuilt to Anthony Salvin’s design in 1855-1860.…

The Keele estate was owned by the Sneyd family and the first Keele Hall was built in 1580 and rebuilt to Anthony Salvin’s design in 1855-1860. There will be guided tours of the Hall. The Raven Mason Collection based in Keele Hall will be open for visitors to view an exhibition of Mason’s Ironstone China and Porcelain.
The Chapel is open to visitors around services. Designed by George Pace and consecrated in 1965, it is the first purpose designed ecumenical place of worship in the UK. There are services at 10.15am and 12.30pm and the Chapel will be open for viewing from 1:30pm onward.
The campus has over 600 acres of landscaped grounds, farmland, woodland and University buildings and facilities. There are leaflets for self-guided walks around the campus and arboretum. In 1949 the University College of North Staffordshire was founded on the site, and became Keele University in 1962. Families and children may enjoy the woodland walks; the tours and Raven Mason will be of historical interest and some older children may find them interesting. There will be no specific provision for children.
A Tea Room will be available in Keele Hall. The Hall is used for conferences and special occasions. Colleagues will be available to discuss these opportunities.

Opening Times

• Sunday 10 September: 10.30am - 3.30pm

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Full wheelchair access to all points of the Keele Hall tour. Partial wheelchair access to Keele Hall grounds. Assistance dogs welcome throughout, other dogs welcome only in Keele Hall grounds.

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session.

Directions

Keele Hall can be located on the Keele University Campus Guide, you are able to download a copy here: https://www.keele.ac.uk/findus/maps/Keele_campus_guide_colour.pdf Keele Hall: Grid reference H2 Keele University Chapel: Grid reference G4

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Maxims Memories Workshop

The Parish Church of St Giles, Church Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1QS

The Belong Heritage Gallery and New Vic Theatre will be collecting memories of the Maxims nightclub building, including its former guises of The…

The Belong Heritage Gallery and New Vic Theatre will be collecting memories of the Maxims nightclub building, including its former guises of The Placemate, Sammi Belles and Old Pomona Inn. People are invited to drop in between 11am and 3pm to share memories, photographs and memorabilia related to their experiences in the building. These recollections will be turned into a new play at the New Vic Theatre and form part of an exhibition when the gallery opens early in 2018. You can also find out about the project to transform the nightclub into the new Belong Heritage Gallery at the heart of a wider belong care village development.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 11am-3pm

Booking Details

No booking required

Directions

The event will take place in St Giles Church, which is also hosting a heritage open day with a number of stalls to celebrate the completion of work undertaken to transform its grounds, thanks to Heritage Lottery Funding.

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Newcastle Cemetery Chapel

Newcastle Cemetery, Lymewood Grove, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 2EH

Newcastle Cemetery Chapel is a Victorian Grade II listed building of architectural and historical interest. It is set on a hill just outside the…

Newcastle Cemetery Chapel is a Victorian Grade II listed building of architectural and historical interest. It is set on a hill just outside the town center in 33 acres of burial ground surrounded by trees and shrubs.

The interior has a beamed ceiling, half tiled with minton tiles and is set out with wooden pews and chairs indicative of the era.

Members of the local Civic Society will be on hand to talk about the chapel along with information and photographs to view.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1500

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Vehicle access is through a barrier which is operated only by a permit/barrier fob issued to the disabled and persons with health issues restricting mobility who are visiting the cemetery. Main parking is on Lymewood Grove.

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St Giles Parish Church, Newcastle under Lyme

St. Giles Church, Church Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1QS

Soaring architecture, glorious glass and many notable features including Medieval Pelican lectern, fine organ and churchwardens chest. This…

Soaring architecture, glorious glass and many notable features including Medieval Pelican lectern, fine organ and churchwardens chest. This beautiful Gilbert Scott church has many gems. This year see the completed work undertaken with Heritage Lottery Fund to improve and beautify the church grounds and show to great advantage the fine collection of memorial stones.
Saturday only
Stalls and exhibitions plus visits to the top of the tower (charge applies).
refreshments available

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: 0900-1200
• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Limied parking in the churchyard. Visitors please use town car parks

Directions

In the centre of Newcastle under Lyme at the top of the High Street. Parking available in town car parks, buses to Newcastle bus station. Nearest station Stoke on Trent with frequent buses to Newcastle opposite the station

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St Margaret’s Church, Wolstanton

Church Lane, Wolstanton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0EH

Family history research for St Margaret's Church, activities for children dealing with the churchyard, tours up into the tower, and much more.

Family history research for St Margaret's Church, activities for children dealing with the churchyard, tours up into the tower, and much more.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

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St Augustine’s Church Rugeley and the Old Chancel open day

St Augustine's Church, Station Road, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2HG

St Augustine's Church will be open to view on Saturday 9th September from 10.00am. The Old Chancel building which is the ruin of the original…

St Augustine's Church will be open to view on Saturday 9th September from 10.00am. The Old Chancel building which is the ruin of the original church built in the 11th century, will be a feature of the event. For safety reasons and conditions stipulated by the insurers, people will not have fully access to the Old Chancel, but will be able to view the Old Chancel from the entrance. There will be an audio visual display relating to the Old Chancel and the artefacts in it.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 10am - 5pm

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Visitors wishing to view the Old Chancel need to report to St Augustine's Church Hall (opposite side of Station Road from Old Chancel) first.

Additional information

Max 5 people per tour/session.

Directions

Adjacent to Aldi supermarket and opposite The Chancel Primary School. On street parking.

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Bellringing at Stafford St Mary’s Collegiate Church

Stafford St.Mary, St Mary's Place, (Stafford town centre), Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AP

We are showcasing the art and science of Bellringing at St Mary’s Collegiate Church in the octagonal belfry. Ascend the spiral staircase to see…

We are showcasing the art and science of Bellringing at St Mary’s Collegiate Church in the octagonal belfry. Ascend the spiral staircase to see the history and heritage of the 10 bells. Watch ringing take place in the unique English style and try holding a bell rope. If you are interested in learning to ring you can apply for a course in Bellringing, which is starting shortly.
On the walls are boards recording the past performances of ringers celebrating many events. See the Stafford leather jack, a very unusual vessel. It carries the names of the bell ringers between 1750 and 1798.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1200-1500

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Preferred
Contact: Tim Hine Call: 0794 181 0977 Email: timothy.hine@ntlworld.com Booking opens: 28 August 2017 09:00 Booking closes: 8 September 2017 21:00

Access Information

The tower has a spiral staircase with no handrail. Minimum age 16, unless accompanied by adult. No-one under 9 years old.

Additional information

Max 8 people per tour/session. The very fine church is always open on Saturdays with many historic artefacts. There will be a coffee concert from 11.00 to 12.00.

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County Buildings

Staffordshire County Council, County Buildings, Martin Street, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2LH

County Buildings was first brought into use over 100 years ago in October 1895. Designed by an emerging young architect, Henry Hare, who in 1892…

County Buildings was first brought into use over 100 years ago in October 1895. Designed by an emerging young architect, Henry Hare, who in 1892 won a competition for the design of a new Council hall in which County Councillors could meet to conduct their business, and which would provide accommodation for the Councils officials. Constructed by a builder from Wolverhampton, Henry Lovatt, the work took over two years to complete and a second campaign of building in 1900 and 1902 saw the addition of the Members Library. One of the many spectacular features of the building is the 12 foot wide staircase, built from Hopton Wood Limestone with an Oak gallery running around three sides. Prominent in the domed Chamber are four large relief panels executed by the sculptor Frederick Emil Eberhard Schneck. Members of Stafford Historic and Civic Society will provide full guided tours.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Preferred
Tours Only Contact: Linda Wood - Receptionist /Jeanette Smith Premises Call: 01785 276222 Email: Countybuildings@staffordshire.gov.uk

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session.

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St Chad’s Church, Stafford

16 Greengate Street, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2HP

Norman church with many exceptionally fine 12th century Romanesque/Norman stone carvings including beaked heads and Green men. Tours and…

Norman church with many exceptionally fine 12th century Romanesque/Norman stone carvings including beaked heads and Green men.
Tours and children's activity trail available.
Talk by Andrew Baker 14.30 Saturday 9th September "St Chad's, Green men and Rediscovering Nature in the 12th Century"

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: 11.00 - 15.00
• Saturday 9 September: 10.00 - 18.00
• Sunday 10 September: 12.30 - 14.30

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access is via 3 steps. Temporary ramps available for wheelchairs and push chairs but these are unsuitable for mobility scooters and heavy powered wheelchairs.

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session.

Directions

Opposite the Swan Hotel and Ancient High House on the main street.

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William Salt Library

William Salt Library, 19 Eastgate Street, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2LZ

A great family event with something to entertain everyone. There will be behind the scene tours which explore William Salt's collection, its key…

A great family event with something to entertain everyone.

There will be behind the scene tours which explore William Salt's collection, its key features and the unique history of the library that houses it.

A chance to learn about some of the more weird and wonderful items in the collection, with special pieces out on display together for the first time.

There will be a family craft activity in the courtyard for creative fingers exploring hidden stories and secret messages.

The William Salt Library is housed in a Grade II* listed Georgian townhouse in the Heart of Stafford and represents an outstanding source of resources for Local and Family Staffordshire History.

For those following the development of the Staffordshire History Centre, there will be the latest plans, developments and information available with staff on hand to answer questions.

Staffordshire Record Office will be open as normal.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: Open 10:00-14:30, Tours run at 10:30, 12:00 & 13:30

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Court Yard Activities and Display free to explore but Tour must be pre-booked Contact: Rachel Lake Call: 01785 895037 Email: rachel.lake@staffordshire.gov.uk Booking opens: 7 August 2017 12:00 Booking closes: 8 September 2017 03:00

Access Information

We regret that the partial wheelchair access limits wheelchair users to the courtyard and one Library reading room only. Tours are unfortunately not wheelchair or pram friendly, please call 01785 895037 for further details.

Additional information

Max 12 people per tour/session. Free street parking on Eastgate street is limited to a 30 min stay. There are several car parks a short walk away, the nearest one being Lammascote Gyratory car park off North Walls, the Library can be easily accessed by cutting through the Councillors car park and heading past Staffordshire Record Office. The Library is about 8 minutes walk from Stafford Railway Station.

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‘The Great Lakes of Kidsgrove’ Heritage Walk

Boathorse Lane Car Park, Boat Horse Road, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST7 4JA

The description may be a bit tongue in cheek but this heritage walk covers four (five if weather permits) local bodies of water, each with its own…

The description may be a bit tongue in cheek but this heritage walk covers four (five if weather permits) local bodies of water, each with its own fascinating history. This ranges from the boating lake of a pleasure garden, once the Alton Towers of its day to the spookily named Blood Pool!

This heritage walk, in the company of a knowledgeable and engaging local historian, takes you from Boathorse Lane, with its obvious canal connections, through parks and woods associated with the rich industrial heritage of the area. Your guide will regale you with stories of colourful characters, fortunes made and lost and even a ghost or two as well as other fascinating insights into local history.

The walk is about 3.4 miles/5.5 km long (round trip). The terrain is mostly flat with a few small inclines, along paved paths and woodland trails, so may be muddy if it has rained. Sensible footwear and suitable clothing is recommended.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: Meet 1045 for 1100 start

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Preferred
Contact: Trudi Barnard Email: gokidsgrove@gmail.com Go to: http://www.gokidsgrove.co.uk Booking opens: 24 July 2017 Booking closes: 8 September 2017

Access Information

The early part of the walk is on paved paths through a park so whilst the majority of the walk is not suitable, people with mobility issues can still enjoy some of the walk. The majority is through woodland paths with some slight inclines. The pace will be slow with plenty of stops to listen to the tour guide.

Additional information

Max 15 people per tour/session. There are no toilets on the route except at a local pub, shortly after the start.

Directions

The walk starts from Bathpool Park car park. Nearest postcode is ST7 4JA. The car park is on the junction of Boathorse Lane, Ravenscliffe Road and Nelson Bank.

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Arnold Bennett’s Watering Holes

Barewall Gallery, 2-4 Market Place, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 4AT

A History Walk with Local Historian Mervyn Edwards, of Burslem History Club. In life and in fiction, the public house has been dominant in…

A History Walk with Local Historian Mervyn Edwards, of Burslem History Club.

In life and in fiction, the public house has been dominant in Burslem.  Describing the scene on the day of Daniel Povey’s funeral, Five Towns novelist Arnold Bennett wrote:

“At the same time one o’clock struck, and the public-houses opened with their customary admirable promptitude. Respectable persons, of course, ignored the public-houses and hastened homewards to a delayed dinner. But in a town of over thirty thousand souls there are sufficient dregs to fill all the public-houses on an occasion of ceremonial excitement.”

In this fast-moving and lively history walk, Mervyn Edwards will look at the pubs featured by Arnold Bennett and discuss how they were presented in his novels.

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: 1000-1700, Tour 1100-1200

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Walking walk and tour duration is 60 minutes with stop off and places of interest.

Additional information

Max 40 people per tour/session. Excellent for those interested in 20th century British literature, and or interested in tour of a town's historic and heritage buildings and public houses located in Bennett's Bursley, real name Burslem the "Mothertown of the Potteries", which is also the World Capital of Ceramics.

Directions

Market Place is divided into two by Burslem Town Hall. We are behind the Old Victorian Town Hall with the Golden Angel on the Top where on road parking is located. We are also next to The Roebuck Pub and Royal Stafford Pottery Factory Shop. Also 2 doors away is the Market Place Cafe with toilet facilities serving real coffee and traditional local Staffordshire oatcakes. The Cafe opens at 9.30am to 3pm. Burslem also has a wonderful real ale offering if this is your interest.

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BBC Radio Stoke Open Day

BBC Radio Stoke, 42 Cheapside, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 1JJ

See what happens around the scenes at BBC Radio Stoke with a tour around the studios.

See what happens around the scenes at BBC Radio Stoke with a tour around the studios.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000 - 1400

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Numbers are limited, to book call between 0900 and 1300 (Monday to Friday) Call: 01782 208080 Go to: http://bbc.co.uk/radiostoke Booking opens: 16 August 2017 09:00 Booking closes: 7 September 2017 13:00

Additional information

Max 6 people per tour/session.

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Behind the Scenes at Hanley Town Hall

Hanley Town Hall, Albion Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 1QQ

Hanley Town Hall in Albion Street was built as the Queens Hotel in 1869, designed by Robert Scrivener. It became the Town Hall in the 1880s.…

Hanley Town Hall in Albion Street was built as the Queens Hotel in 1869, designed by Robert Scrivener. It became the Town Hall in the 1880s. Heritage Open Days visitors will be able to see the old courtroom and look at the cells in the basement of the building.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: Tours 1000, 1130, 1300, 1600

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Contact: Tracey Harrison Call: 01782 232042 Email: communications@stoke.gov.uk Write to: Civic Centre, Glebe Street, ST4 1HH Booking opens: 1 June 2017 09:30 Booking closes: 6 September 2017 13:00

Access Information

the cellars in the basement are accessible via steep narrow steps from the courtroom.

Additional information

Max 15 people per tour/session. tour times to be announced soon

Directions

Also where the register office is based.

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Behind the Scenes at the Lord Mayor’s Parlour

Stoke on Trent City Council, Civic Centre, Glebe Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST4 1HH

Visit the Lord Mayor's parlour and see behind the scenes in the historic council chambers with the chance to meet the Lord Mayor. Children can…

Visit the Lord Mayor's parlour and see behind the scenes in the historic council chambers with the chance to meet the Lord Mayor. Children can take part in our treasure hunt and have their photo taken in the Lord Mayor's chair and wearing the hat. This year we are offering special tours for residents’ associations and faith groups (Thursday) and young people and school groups (Friday). Individuals and families are also welcome to attend. Contact us for details.

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1800-2000
• Friday 8 September: 1000-1200

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Thursday for Residents Associations and Faith Groups and Friday for Schools Contact: Julie Ainsworth Call: 01782 236663 Email: julie.ainsworth@stoke.gov.uk Booking opens: 31 July 2017 10:00 Booking closes: 6 September 2017 16:00

Directions

Kingsway Car Park to rear of building giving large parking area for visitors

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Bethesda Chapel, Hanley

Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire

Bethesda is a 200 year old Grade 2* listed chapel, which, when built, had seating for 3,000 people and it has what we believe to be the largest…

Bethesda is a 200 year old Grade 2* listed chapel, which, when built, had seating for 3,000 people and it has what we believe to be the largest span of any chapel outside London. It is a work in progress having been partially restored, made weatherproof, a new ceiling and replacement organ.
We have a WW1 Exhibition relating to the men who went to war from Bethesda and tributes to the 39 men who did not return, including a spectacular poppy fall from the pulpit.
There is a small museum of artefacts and another exhibition showing Bethesda's progress and events held since it began to come back to life in 2003 having been closed since 1985.
Our volunteers will be on hand to show people round to tell the story of this wonderful building and answer any questions.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1200-1430, tours on request

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access to the Chapel is at the front where there are two low steps. Wheelchair users have coped with them and helpers are on hand if needed. there is no wheelchair access to upstairs but it can be seen from downstairs. It could be difficult to get a pushchair upstairs but no problem on the ground floor.

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session. The chapel is a work in progress and they need to take care as some of the floors are uneven.

Directions

M6 junctions 15 or 16.Follow the signs to Stoke-on Trent then Hanley, City Centre or Cultural Quarter. We are opposite the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery. We do not have any parking at Bethesda but the are plenty of car parks nearby.

Opening times & full details  ►

Biddulph Grange Garden

Biddulph Grange National Trust, Grange Road, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST8 7SD

An extraordinary Victorian garden and Geological Gallery full of maze like hedges, rock banks, quirky buildings, statues and tunnels. This was…

An extraordinary Victorian garden and Geological Gallery full of maze like hedges, rock banks, quirky buildings, statues and tunnels. This was the first ever compartment garden with some of the earliest introductions of trees and shrubs in the UK. Around every corner there is something to discover from a Chinese Garden, to an Egyptian Court.

Feed the fish, ring the bells in the Chinese Garden, take a tour or explore the Garden and Gallery to find your favourite spot.

Friday 8 September, 10:30-12:30 discover how we conservation clean our books and marble fireplace.
Saturday 9 September, 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3pm introductory 20 min talks about the garden.

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: 1030-1730
• Saturday 9 September: 1030-1730

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

There are over 400 steps into and around the garden. The garden was built on the side of a valley so there are many inclines too.

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Catholic Church of St Joseph, Burslem

St. Josephs Church, Hall Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 4BB

Guides will be on hand to explain the history and current restoration of this Grade II* listed church designed by J S Brocklesby and officially…

Guides will be on hand to explain the history and current restoration of this Grade II* listed church designed by J S Brocklesby and officially opened in 1927. St Joseph's contains a 'prodigious and lavish internal scheme of artwork, mosaic and stained glass, by artists of national repute'. The stained glass designs and painted ceiling are by Gordon Forsyth, principal of the Burslem School of Art, while the spectacular painting of Christ in Glory over the sanctuary is by his daughter, the artist Moira Forsyth.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1100-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

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Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart, Tunstall

Sacred Heart Church , Queens Avenue, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 6EF

Guides will be on hand to explain the history and current programme of restoration at this Grade II listed church. The Sacred Heart was designed…

Guides will be on hand to explain the history and current programme of restoration at this Grade II listed church. The Sacred Heart was designed by J S Brocklesby and completed by Fr P J Ryan, opening in 1930. Stained glass by Gordon Forsyth, principal of the Burslem School of Art. Main altar and side altars along the north aisle in marble, richly decorated with inlay and mosaic.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1100-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

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Ceramic City Stories | The Firing Line

The Firing Line, Winkhill Mill, Swan Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST4 7RH

Discover one of the World's only remaining tile works still using traditional techniques & original cast iron dust presses made by Boulton of…

Discover one of the World's only remaining tile works still using traditional techniques & original cast iron dust presses made by Boulton of Burslem c. 1900. Don't miss this unique opportunity to glimpse a Potteries' hidden gem!

Visitors will also get a sneak preview of the 'Secret Museum' - an exciting new resource & pop up space dedicated to Stoke-on-Trent histories & heritage.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1030-1530 (Mini factory tours, informal chat & demonstrations)
• Sunday 10 September: 1030-1530 (Mini factory tours, informal chat & demonstrations)

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access is limited in places (steps). However, we can accommodate everyone. Please contact us to discuss any specific requirements: hello@ceramiccitystories.org There is limited parking in Swan Street (free).

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session. *All visitors will be met at the entrance door & informally 'guided' throughout your visit. You will be required to 'sign in & out' (which will also include your formal agreement to enter this work place 'at your own risk'. Mini factory tours, informal chat & demonstrations will take place approximately every 30-40minutes depending on visitor numbers. You are welcome to join & leave 'mid tour' but will still need to be informally 'guided' (and required to sign in & out).

Directions

Swan Street is easily accessed off Hartshill Road & Old Shelton Road: 5 minutes walk from Minton Hollins Tile Works, 10 minutes walk from Spode Works (centre of Stoke), 15 minutes walk from Stoke Station.

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Chatterley Whitfield Colliery Tour

Chatterley Whitfield, Biddulph Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 8UW

The Chatterley Whitfield Colliery site is acknowledged to be the most comprehensive surviving example of a deep mine site in England, with a range…

The Chatterley Whitfield Colliery site is acknowledged to be the most comprehensive surviving example of a deep mine site in England, with a range of surviving structures and buildings unequalled in any other former or surviving coalfield site in Britain. Not usually open to the public, this free guided tour by the Friends of Chatterley Whitfield will allow you to appreciate the splendid array of buildings on site, which makes Chatterley Whitfield so unique. Why not come and join us before (or after) your tour for a chat and a cuppa!
There is no underground access.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1600
• Sunday 10 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chatterley-whitfield-colliery-tour-2017-tickets-27688587310 Booking opens: 1 August 2017 09:00 Booking closes: 31 August 2017 17:00

Access Information

It is an old industrial site and there are areas of uneven ground.

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session.

Directions

The entrance to the site will be signed from the roundabout on the A527 - Look for the tall chimney and Pit Head Winding Gear.

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Etruria Industrial Museum

Etruria Industrial Museum, Etruria Vale Road, Etruria, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 4RB

Saturday 9th September Vintage Stationary Engine Rally and Sunday 10th September Classic Cars and Commercial Vehicles 10.30 to 16.30 Shirley’s…

Saturday 9th September Vintage Stationary Engine Rally and Sunday 10th September
Classic Cars and Commercial Vehicles 10.30 to 16.30
Shirley’s 1857 Etruscan Bone & Flint Mill In steam and operating 12.30 to 16.30 starting on the hour. Museum, Gift Shop and Tea Room
Creative with Clay & Art in the Canal Warehouse and Artist Blacksmith Demonstrations in the Forge. Historic Canal Boat and Traditional Crafts
Entry to site and mill free for heritage open days. Guided tours of the mill available from 12.00 noon £6.00 per adult under 16s free.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 10.30-16.30, Tour 12.15-15.15
• Sunday 10 September: 10.30-16.30. Tour 12.15-15.15

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Restricted access to the mill for those with mobility difficulties

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session.

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Film Show: “The Card” by Arnold Bennett at The Grade 2* Listed Wedgwood Institute

Queen Street, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 3EG

Visit the interior of the building and view the classic 1952 released film of "The Card" by Arnold Bennett.

Visit the interior of the building and view the classic 1952 released film of "The Card" by Arnold Bennett.

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: Meet 1445, 1500 Film Show

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Please wear warm clothes for the film showing which will be inside and seated for 1.5 hours.

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session.

Directions

The Wedgwood Institute is opposite the world famous Burslem School of Art also sited in Queen Street.

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Ford Green Hall

Ford Green Hall, Ford Green Road, Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 1NG

Ford Green Hall is an award winning 17th Century Museum.A Timber framed farmhouse built in 1624,the hall is furnished with an outstanding…

Ford Green Hall is an award winning 17th Century Museum.A Timber framed farmhouse built in 1624,the hall is furnished with an outstanding collection of textiles and period furniture.

Handle replica objects from the Tudor and Stuart periods,learn about everyday life from our costumed member of staff.

Childrens craft activity and trail.

Small charges for Craft activity and Trail

Opening Times

• Sunday 10 September: 1100-1530

Booking Details

No booking required

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Gladstone Pottery Museum

Gladstone Pottery Museum, 26 Uttoxeter Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST3 1PQ

Gladstone is the only complete Victorian pottery factory from the days when coal burning ovens made the world's finest bone china. Traditional…

Gladstone is the only complete Victorian pottery factory from the days when coal burning ovens made the world's finest bone china. Traditional skills, original workshops, the cobbled yard and huge bottle ovens transport visitors back in time.
Visitors can try their hand at throwing a pot, making a bone china flower or painting a piece of pottery for a small extra charge.
Please allow at least two hours for your visit.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000 - 1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Our cobbled yard is beautiful but visitors do need to take care of the uneven surface. We have done all we can to balance the preservation of a Grade II * listed site to make it accessible for all. Most of the site is accessible with lifts and ramps in some areas. We also have a wheelchair and a mobility scooter which can be borrowed from Reception.

Additional information

Visit the café and gift shop and try your hand at our have-a-go activities (for a small charge).

Directions

The museum is on the corner of Chadwick Street and Uttoxeter Road, with brown signs from all major routes into the town of Longton. We have a large free car park on Chadwick Street - to exit the car park you will need to collect a token from Reception. There is parking for Blue Badge holders at the very front of the museum next to the main gates at the entrance. If you need any help with directions please call us on 01782 237777 or email gladstone@stoke.gov.uk

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Guided Heritage Tour - City Adventures

2 Keelings Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 6PB

Take the Caldon canal as it traces the river Trent back towards its source, departs the city and through historic, industrial and suburban…

Take the Caldon canal as it traces the river Trent back towards its source, departs the city and through historic, industrial and suburban hinterland and into the rural tranquillity of the moorlands.

The boats will be guided by Potteries Heritage society tour guide Andy Perkin and will be supported by qualfied instructors.

Opening Times

• Sunday 10 September: 09:30-12:30

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Canal tow path is accessible Contact: Eventbrite Go to: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/heritage-canoe-trail-tickets-35910578507 Write to: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/heritage-canoe-trail-tickets-35910578507 Booking opens: 25 July 2017 00:00 Booking closes: 3 September 2017 00:00

Access Information

Paddlesports limited access with people with physical disabilities

Additional information

Max 18 people per tour/session. Charges apply for parking

Directions

Northwood Stadium meeting at grandstand

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Hanley Park Restoration Walk

Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire

Join us for an introduction to Hanley Park’s 120-year story and for the latest on our £6m park restoration project, now in progress and due for…

Join us for an introduction to Hanley Park’s 120-year story and for the latest on our £6m park restoration project, now in progress and due for completion next year.

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: Tour 1800
• Sunday 10 September: Tour 1400

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Some paths may be uneven or undergoing resurfacing. Every effort will be made to ensure that the most accessible and comfortable route through the park is chosen, although there may be some inconvenience due to path diversions and landscaping works. Availability of toilet facilities.

Directions

Meet at the Hammersley Fountain in Cauldon Grounds, adjacent to Stoke-on-Trent College. Free on-street parking on Avenue Road.

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Hanley Park: Fountains of Family Fun!

Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire

Make a splash the Victorian way! Craft your own fountain using principles of gravity, pressure, and plenty of water! Don’t forget to dress for mess.

Make a splash the Victorian way! Craft your own fountain using principles of gravity, pressure, and plenty of water! Don’t forget to dress for mess.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1200

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access to the site and availability of toilets may be subject to change due to ongoing restoration works. Please check with us via social media, telephone (07787 005946), or email (hanleypark@stoke.gov.uk) in case of concern.

Directions

Meet at the Hammersley Fountain in Cauldon Grounds, adjacent to Stoke-on-Trent College. Free on-street parking on Avenue Road.

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Heritage & Nature in The Potteries

Hanley Park, Cleveland Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 4DX

Join Potteries Heritage Society's Andy Perkin and Ecologist Nicola Farrin to explore heritage and nature in The Potteries, from the industrial…

Join Potteries Heritage Society's Andy Perkin and Ecologist Nicola Farrin to explore heritage and nature in The Potteries, from the industrial revolution to industrial decline and enviromental reclaimation. The guided walk will follow the Caldon and Trent & Mersey Canals to Stoke and return along the valley of the River Trent (around 3 miles in total).

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: 1800-2000

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Preferred
Contact: Andy Perkin Call: 01782747836 Email: andy@potteries.org.uk Write to: 58 Richmond Street Booking opens: 1 July 2017 09:00 Booking closes: 7 September 2017 17:00

Access Information

The 3-mile walk is mainly along well-made paths but will include some uneven surfaces, grassed areas and sections next to open water.

Additional information

Max 25 people per tour/session.

Directions

Meet at Hanley Park, vehicular bridge near to the tennis courts.

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Historic Walk of Longton

Gladstone Pottery Museum, 26 Uttoxeter Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST3 1PQ

Lasting around an hour and a half the walk is an ideal way of learning more about the history of the town, taking in landmarks along the way. The…

Lasting around an hour and a half the walk is an ideal way of learning more about the history of the town, taking in landmarks along the way. The current buildings tell the industrial tale of the development of the area and the important role it played in the pottery industry. Beginning at the Gladstone Shop at 2pm, the walk is free of charge please book by calling 01782 237777

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: 14:00 - 15:30

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Please call us on 01782 237777 to book your place on the walk. Contact: Gladstone Pottery Museum Call: 01782 237777 Email: gladstone@stoke.gov.uk Booking opens: 10 May 2017 10:00 Booking closes: 8 September 2017 10:00

Additional information

Max 20 people per tour/session.

Directions

The museum is on the corner of Chadwick Street and Uttoxeter Road, with brown signs from all major routes into the town of Longton. We have a large free car park on Chadwick Street - to exit the car park you will need to collect a token from Reception. There is parking for Blue Badge holders at the very front of the museum next to the main gates at the entrance. If you need any help with directions please call us on 01782 237777 or email gladstone@stoke.gov.uk

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Middleport Pottery, Home of Burleigh

Middleport Pottery, Port Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 3PE

FREE entry to Middleport Pottery (usual charges £4/£3 concessions) Visit the historic Burgess & Leigh factory site, and enjoy free access to all…

FREE entry to Middleport Pottery (usual charges £4/£3 concessions)
Visit the historic Burgess & Leigh factory site, and enjoy free access to all our heritage areas including the Victorian Offices, bottle oven, mould store, and see the original William Boulton steam engine in action!

Saturday: Special behind-the-scenes tours of Middleport Pottery every 30 minutes between 11am and 3pm (£5 per person)
Sunday: A preview of the soon-to-be-refurbished Harper Street houses on Sunday at 11am and 2pm only (£5 per person)

Drop in play-with-clay activities available for youngsters (£2 each).

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1600
• Sunday 10 September: 1000-1600

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Heritage areas are FREE to explore but tours must be pre-booked Call: 01782 499766 Email: info@middleport.org Booking opens: 1 July 2017 09:00

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Open Tower All Saints Dilhorne

All Saints Church, New Road, Dilhorne, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST10 2PQ

Listen to and see videos of the bells being rung. Hear about the history of the bells. See a model bell with an explanation as to 'how it…

Listen to and see videos of the bells being rung.
Hear about the history of the bells.
See a model bell with an explanation as to 'how it works'.
Go up into the bell tower to see the workings of the clock and the bells themselves.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1400-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session. Suitable footwear should be worn to climb up the bell tower For safety reasons under 10s will not be able to go up the tower

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Spode Works: Guided walking tours around the historic factory site

Spode Museum Trust Heritage Centre, Spode Works, Elenora Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST4 1QD

Guided walking tours around the historic Spode Works factory site. The walks will combine information about the history of this fascinating site…

Guided walking tours around the historic Spode Works factory site. The walks will combine information about the history of this fascinating site along with updates on the current regeneration projects.

The route is partially outdoor and includes stairs and uneven floors so we would ask all participants to wear sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing and to be comfortable standing and walking for 45 minutes. Hard hats and hi-vis vests must be worn and will be provided.

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1800-1930
• Friday 8 September: 1800-1930
• Saturday 9 September: 1300-1430
• Sunday 10 September: 1300-1430

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Tickets are free but must be pre-booked Contact: Spode Museum Trust Heritage Centre Call: 01782411421 Email: visitorcentre@spodeworks.org Go to: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/spode-works-guided-walking-tours-around-the-historic-factory-site-tickets-36164774815 Booking opens: 7 July 2017 06:00 Booking closes: 7 September 2017 17:00

Access Information

The route is partially outdoor and includes stairs and uneven floors so we would ask all participants to wear sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing and to be comfortable standing and walking for 45 minutes. Hard hats and hi-vis vests must be worn and will be provided.

Additional information

Max 8 people per tour/session.

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Stoke Minster

2 Glebe Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST4 1HG

last year we promoted interest into the history and heritage of bells and bellringing and this proved so popular that we will repeat this…

last year we promoted interest into the history and heritage of bells and bellringing and this proved so popular that we will repeat this opportunity to experience our fine ring of 10 bells.
You can still see the WWI stained glass window that was restored in 2014. Display boards giving an insight into the Heritage of the Minster. Ceramic memorials to the great local potters including a Flaxman sculpture of Josiah Wedgwood. Wedgwood and Spode are buried in the Minster grounds. The uniquely interesting Minton & Hollins memorial wall tiles and the beautiful floor tiles in the chancel are well worth a look.There will be an organ recital at 12.00 on the magnificent Binn's/Walker organ, a display of fine tapestries and guided tours in and around the Minster The churchyard is a pleasant open space in the centre of Stoke, home to wildlife, trees and shrubs as well as many interesting tombs and gravestones

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1500; recital 1200

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Ramps are available for wheel chair access to the Minster. Some features of interest are only accessible by stairs although pictorial representations can be seen in a ground floor display.

Additional information

Max 12 people per tour/session.

Directions

Follow the brown signs for Stoke Minster and there is a public car park opposite the Minster and next to the Civic Centre.

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Stories from Historic Narrowboats

Etruria Junction next to Etruria Industrial Museum, Kilndown Close, Etruria Vale Road, Etruria, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 4RB

Potteries Heritage Society is teaming up with Etruria Boat Group to offer this unique event. Join us explore the historic narrow boats, Keppel and…

Potteries Heritage Society is teaming up with Etruria Boat Group to offer this unique event. Join us explore the historic narrow boats, Keppel and Lindsay from 6pm and, afterwards at 7pm in the wharf buildings, to listen to excerpts from Arthur Wood's interviews with working boatmen and their families, recorded in the 1970s and 1980s and recently restored by the HLF funded Revealing Voices project.

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1800

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Some visitors may have difficulty accessing the boat cabins and the site has numerous uneven surfaces and open water.

Directions

Follow signs for Etruria Industrial Museum. Visitors to the event may use the Museum car park and facilities.

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The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Bethesda Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 3DW

To celebrate Heritage Open Days the museum will host an after-hours guided tour by torchlight of our most significant treasures pieces including…

To celebrate Heritage Open Days the museum will host an after-hours guided tour by torchlight of our most significant treasures pieces including items from the Staffordshire Hoard. Discover the stories behind some of the wonderful artefacts found in Staffordshire as part of the Treasure Act and the Portable Antiquities Scheme which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
Learn why the torcs of Alrewas are twisted, what the Romans called Hadrian’s Wall, and how the firethorn plant became an essential tool in the conservation of the Saxon Hoard.
See these beautiful golden treasures by torchlight as they sparkle and come to life revealing the intricate craftsmanship of bygone times.
Free but very limited places so booking essential by calling 01782 232323. Tours begin at 6pm and 7.15pm.

Opening Times

• Friday 8 September: Tour 1800 and 1915

Booking Details

Pre-booking: Required
Main site is free to explore but the tour must be pre-booked Contact: Tourist Information Call: 01782 232323 Email: stoke.tic@stoke.gov.uk Go to: http://www.stokemuseums.org.uk Booking opens: 18 August 2017 10:00 Booking closes: 8 September 2017

Additional information

Max 15 people per tour/session.

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Visit historic canalboat Keppel at Etruria on the Caldon Canal.

Etruria Industrial Museum, adjacent Kilndown Close, Etruria Vale Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 4RB

Visit our historic canal cargo narrowboat, Keppel and have a go at traditional canal crafts, see how the people who worked on the canal boats…

Visit our historic canal cargo narrowboat, Keppel and have a go at traditional canal crafts, see how the people who worked on the canal boats lived in the highly decorated cabin.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 11.00 to 3.30
• Sunday 10 September: 11.00 to 3.30.

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Acces to the boat is by a steep stairway, not suitable for people with limited mobility.

Directions

We will be moored up outside the Etruria Industrial Museum, on the Caldon canal.

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Wedgwood Museum

World of Wedgwood, Wedgwood Drive, Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST12 9ER

World of Wedgwood is a unique visitor experience celebrating the very best of British industrial and design heritage. Visitors can see artisan…

World of Wedgwood is a unique visitor experience celebrating the very best of British industrial and design heritage. Visitors can see artisan craftsmen at work, demonstrating the unique skills and techniques honed over 250 years’ experience in the British ceramics industry at the home of Wedgwood and can also try their own hand at the potter’s wheel and create their own work of art to take home.

Why not browse the wide selection of beautiful Wedgwood pieces in the World of Wedgwood Flagship Store, Brand Junction, Factory Outlet and Museum Shop.

Relax and indulge with the ultimate afternoon tea experience available at the Wedgwood Tea Room, or enjoy a lighter bite in The Dining Hall - an all-day restaurant which is a contemporary take on the original worker's canteen.

Of course, no visit would be complete without spending time in the award-winning Wedgwood Museum, which houses over 3000 artefacts dating back to 1759.

Opening Times

• Thursday 7 September: 1000-1700
• Friday 8 September: 1000-1700
• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1700
• Sunday 10 September: 1000-1700

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Our Master Craft Studio and Factory Tour are located on the first and second floors, and therefore can only be accessed via lifts or stairs with handrails.

Directions

From M1 - Follow A50 west, then tourist signs when approaching Stoke-On-Trent. From M6 - Follow A34 (south from junction 15, or north from junction 14), then follow tourist signs. By train - Only 90 mins from London Euston & 45 mins from Manchester Piccadilly to Stoke-on-Trent station. We are 15 minutes from Stoke-on-Trent station by Taxi. Other Transport NB: If you are using Satellite Navigation please use ST12 9ER. If you are travelling via the canal - Bridge 104. Regular D & G bus service 14 to Barlaston, Wedgwood Drive followed by a 20 minute scenic walk.

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St Editha’s Parish Church, Tamworth

Church Street, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7BX

Take a guided tour and learn more about this historic building which dates back to Saxon times, 1200 years ago. The West tower has a rare double…

Take a guided tour and learn more about this historic building which dates back to Saxon times, 1200 years ago. The West tower has a rare double helix spiral staircase. Minimum age of 16 years old, unless accompanied by adult.

PLEASE NOTE - THE TOWER IS ONLY OPEN FROM 2.00pm - 4.00PM.

Guided tours, organ recitals,and refreshments.
To conform with our Health & Safety policy, no-one under 8 years' old will be able to ascend the tower.The Fair Trade bookshop will also be open.

Opening Times

• Sunday 10 September: 11.30 - 15.30

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Access to all main areas within church is possible, except crypt and tower staircase.

Additional information

Max 10 people per tour/session.

Directions

Facing St. Editha's Square, on the corner of Church Street

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Quaker Meeting House and Peace Garden

The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), 39 Carter Street, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 8EY

39a Carter Street is the Dwelling House belonging to the Uttoxeter and Burton Local Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). It is…

39a Carter Street is the Dwelling House belonging to the Uttoxeter and Burton Local Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). It is now privately owned and is not open to the public. The Meeting House behind it was registered as a place of worship in 1706. It is little changed since it was built, having an upper gallery and containing furniture from the 18th century. Behind it is the Burial Ground, established in 1700, with 60 recorded burials. By the side and beyond it is the Peace Garden, recently restored, containing flowers, trees, fruit and vegetables and two wildlife ponds. There is a trail of quotations about peace to lead you around.

Friends will be able to tell you the history of the building and you are welcome to sit in the Meeting House and garden. Fairtrade drinks and light refreshments will be served in the
adjacent meeting room.

'Redfern's Cottage, The Museum of Uttoxeter Life' which is across the road, features a display about Mary Howitt, the poet, who attended the Quaker Meeting House.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1000-1500
• Sunday 10 September: 1230-1500

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

In the garden some paths are uneven, although main path is wheelchair accessible. Children will need to be supervised in the pond area. There is a ramp into the meeting room where the disabled toilet and baby change area are located. Parking at the site is limited. There is limited on-road parking opposite and public pay-and-display car parks nearby, signed.

Directions

Opposite 'Redfern's Cottage, the Museum of Uttoxeter Life' and next to Wilfred House.

Opening times & full details  ►

The wider monastic landscape at Croxden Abbey

Croxden Abbey, Croxden, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 5JG

Talk and walk held in the monastic Vale of Saint Mary's of which Croxden Abbey is in the centre. The talk will be based in the parish church of…

Talk and walk held in the monastic Vale of Saint Mary's of which Croxden Abbey is in the centre. The talk will be based in the parish church of St Giles'. The talk will go through the general history of the landscape with pictures, maps and diagrams showing on a projector. The walk will encompass an monastic grange, a monastic clapper bridge (recently restored), the old water meadow systems, mediaeval causeway, water management dams and other earth work etc. The main monastic structure will also be open to look around come early to give yourself time to look around before the talk start.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 1100-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

The church and Abbey are fully accessible for disabled the church also has a disabled toilet. The walk is on suitable for disabled people

Additional information

Max 40 people per tour/session.

Directions

St Giles Church Croxden

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An Extraordinary Day in the Life of Moseley Old Hall

Moseley Old Hall Lane, Fordhouses, Wolverhampton, Staffordshire, WV10 7HY

For just 70 hours in 1651 Moseley Old Hall protected the future King of England, Charles Stuart, from discovery by Parliament soldiers. Fearing…

For just 70 hours in 1651 Moseley Old Hall protected the future King of England, Charles Stuart, from discovery by Parliament soldiers. Fearing for his life the young man hid in an apparently ordinary home, helped by an extraordinary family and friends. Come along to be thrown into the adventure for just one day, with members of the Sealed Knot and costumed characters bringing the story to life.

Opening Times

• Saturday 9 September: 10.30-1600

Booking Details

No booking required

Access Information

Most areas of the grounds and garden have flat level paths and are accessible. Ground floor of the house is wheelchair accessible only. Stairs to other floors. Guides available to help.

Opening times & full details  ►