A Slow Boat to China: 3-Day Heritage Escape in Staffordshire
Step into the creative spirit of Staffordshire with a short break that’s full of character, history, and hands-on experiences. This 3-day itinerary, A Slow Boat to China, takes you on a journey through the world-famous Potteries, where the heritage of ceramics meets the tranquil beauty of the canals. From exploring the historic Middleport Pottery and painting your own Emma Bridgewater plate to cruising along the Trent & Mersey Canal, every moment offers something truly unique. With award-winning dining and welcoming places to stay, it’s the perfect escape for anyone looking to slow down, get creative, and discover the real stories of Staffordshire.
Day 1 – Potteries Past & Canal Charm
Morning
Attraction: Middleport Pottery Factory Tour
Begin your journey at the world-famous Middleport Pottery, home to the iconic Burleigh pottery since 1889. Enjoy a fascinating factory tour, watching skilled artisans handcraft and decorate pottery using techniques that have been passed down for generations. The historic red-brick Victorian factory itself is a gem, beautifully preserved and brimming with character.
CTA: Discover the magic of Burleigh – where history and craftsmanship meet.
Lunch: Packing House Café
Tuck into a fabulous lunch at the Packing House Café, located within the Middleport site. Expect fresh, locally sourced dishes and homemade cakes, perfect for refuelling before exploring further.
CTA: Taste the flavours of Staffordshire while soaking up authentic industrial heritage.
Afternoon
Attraction: Explore Studio Shops & Canal Walk
Spend the afternoon browsing the charming studio shops and the famous Burleigh Factory Shop, where you can pick up seconds and unique designs at bargain prices. Step back in time and take a mini-trip along the Trent & Mersey Canal aboard The Dane, a historic narrowboat, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the towpath, hand in hand.
Historic Note: The Trent & Mersey Canal, completed in 1777, was instrumental in transporting pottery and raw materials during the rise of the Potteries. Its presence shaped the success of iconic brands like Burleigh and Wedgwood.
CTA: Step back in time on the waterway that shaped the Potteries.
Evening Meal: Banarasi, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Looking for fabulous food, then Banarasi, known for its contemporary Indian cuisine is the go to place. With its intimate atmosphere and exquisite flavours, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
CTA: Spice up your evening with a dinner to remember.
Day 2 – Creative Connections at Emma Bridgewater
Morning
Attraction: Emma Bridgewater Factory Tour
Spend the morning at the much-loved Emma Bridgewater Factory, where colourful hand-painted ceramics come to life. The factory is beautifully located along the Cauldon Canal, which branches from the Trent & Mersey Canal and meanders towards Leek in the Peak District. This historic waterway is a peaceful backdrop, echoing the region’s industrial heritage. The Cauldon Canal end at Froghall Wharf here you will find Hetty’s Café– a charming spot renowned for its cosy atmosphere and homemade cakes.
CTA: Step inside the colourful world of Emma Bridgewater.
Lunch: Emma Bridgewater Café
Enjoy a wholesome lunch in the Emma Bridgewater Café, set within the charming Victorian factory courtyard. The menu features comforting, home-style dishes, delightful cakes and local delicacy Staffordshire Oatcakes.
CTA: Savour a cosy lunch in a setting full of character.
Afternoon
Attraction: Personalise Your Own Pottery
Get creative together by sponge-painting your own personalised Emma Bridgewater plate at the decorating studio – a unique keepsake of your romantic escape. Afterwards, browse the factory and seconds shops for beautiful bargains.
CTA: Create your own masterpiece – a perfect memento of your mini-break.
Evening Meal: The Orange Tree Bar & Grill, Stoke-on-Trent
End your day with a relaxed, stylish dining experience at The Orange Tree Bar & Grill, where modern British dishes meet warm hospitality.
CTA: Indulge in a fabulous feast in the heart of Stoke.
Day 3 – Wedgwood Wonders
Morning
Attraction: World of Wedgwood Factory Tour
No pottery tour is complete without a visit to the World of Wedgwood. Josiah Wedgwood played a pivotal role in the construction of the Trent & Mersey Canal, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of his fine china. Discover the incredible heritage of this world-renowned brand on an immersive factory tour.
CTA: Uncover the story of Josiah Wedgwood and his canal legacy.
Lunch: World of Wedgwood Tearoom
Treat yourselves to an elegant afternoon tea or light lunch at the Wedgwood Tearoom, surrounded by beautiful fine china.
CTA: Dine in style with a touch of Wedgwood elegance.
Afternoon
Attraction: The Clay Studio – Create Your Own Jasperware Pot
Get hands-on with Staffordshire’s rich pottery heritage at The Clay Studio, where couples can craft their very own jasperware pot to take home. This fun and tactile experience is the perfect way to round off your creative journey. Don’t forget to browse the Wedgwood Factory Shop, where you can pick up exclusive pieces and local treats like Six Towns Gin, a premium spirit handcrafted in Stoke-on-Trent.
CTA: Try your hand at pottery – who knows, you might discover your inner artist!
Evening Meal: Lunar, Wedgwood Estate
Finish your final day with an unforgettable dining experience at Lunar, located on the historic Wedgwood Estate. Co-founded by acclaimed chef Niall Keating, Lunar is a celebration of Staffordshire heritage, where every dish is inspired by local produce and modern British flavours. Its elegant atmosphere and outstanding tasting menus make it the ultimate spot for a romantic finale to your getaway.
CTA: Dine under the stars – make your final evening one to remember at Lunar.
Stay: The Upper House, Barlaston
The Upper House Hotel offers a romantic retreat surrounded by rolling Staffordshire countryside. Its blend of character, comfort, and fine dining makes it the perfect base for your three-day escape.
CTA: Relax, unwind, and wake up in the heart of Staffordshire.
Essential Information
- Middleport Pottery: www.middleportpottery.org
- Emma Bridgewater: www.emmabridgewater.co.uk
- World of Wedgwood: www.worldofwedgwood.com
- The Upper House Hotel: www.theupperhouse.com
- Banarasi Restaurant: www.banarasistoke.co.uk
- The Orange Tree Bar & Grill: www.orangetreebarandgrill.co.uk
- Lunar: Lunar Wedgwood | Modern Dining at World of Wedgwood
Stay a Little Longer
If you have a little extra time to explore, Staffordshire has even more to offer beyond this 3-day itinerary. Step into the fascinating world of Spode Factory, where centuries of ceramic craftsmanship come to life with interactive displays and stunning heritage pieces. For a real glimpse into the area’s industrial past, visit the Etruria Industrial Museum – the last working steam-powered potter’s mill in Britain – and discover the engineering brilliance that shaped the Potteries.
Round off your extended stay with a visit to the Trentham Estate. Wander through the award-winning Trentham Gardens, complete with beautiful Italianate terraces and a fairy sculpture trail, before indulging in a little retail therapy at the Trentham Shopping Village, where local boutiques and artisan finds are waiting to be discovered.
CTA: Why rush home when there’s so much more to explore? Extend your adventure and uncover even more of Staffordshire’s creative spirit and charm.
Discover More
For more inspiration and planning your trip, visit:
- Visit Stoke: www.visitstoke.co.uk
- Visit Staffordshire: www.enjoystaffordshire.com