Looking for the perfect short break in Staffordshire? Uttoxeter is a great market town with plenty to discover, from independent shops and welcoming cafés to restaurants, pubs, heritage and lively events. With a relaxed atmosphere and plenty to see and do, it is a town that rewards a little extra time.
Its location makes Uttoxeter an ideal base for exploring further afield too. Alton Towers and the Peak District are both within easy reach, while the wider attractions and countryside of East Staffordshire are right on the doorstep. Whether it’s a weekend of shopping, good food and local experiences or a longer stay packed with days out, Uttoxeter makes a great base for a Staffordshire getaway.
Markets & More | The Heritage of Uttoxeter
Uttoxeter is a town that deserves more than a fleeting visit. Full of character, charm and unexpected discoveries, it is the kind of place where a quick stop can easily turn into a full day, and a full day into a weekend worth remembering.
Uttoxeter’s identity as a market town stretches back more than 750 years. In 1251, Henry III granted the town a Market Charter, allowing a weekly Wednesday market and an annual three-day fair. That market helped Uttoxeter grow in importance and prosperity, establishing the town as a key trading centre for the surrounding agricultural area.
And this was very much a market town shaped by the countryside around it. For centuries, farmers and traders travelled into Uttoxeter to buy and sell everything from corn, cheese and provisions to livestock. By the 19th century, the Wednesday market included cattle sales every fortnight, alongside regular cattle fairs, a colt fair and cheese fairs.
Livestock became an especially important part of Uttoxeter’s story. A dedicated livestock market was established on Smithfield Road in the mid-19th century, with cattle, calves, sheep and pigs among the animals traded. Historical photographs held by Staffordshire’s archives capture sheep sales taking place at Smithfield Market, giving a vivid glimpse of the agricultural activity that once brought the town to life.
Livestock markets remained a major feature of Uttoxeter life well into the 20th century, finally closing in 2001. The town’s wider market tradition, however, continues today, with regular outdoor markets still taking place in the Market Place.
That long trading history helps explain the character of Uttoxeter today. The Market Place remains at the heart of the town, while the surrounding streets have evolved into a lively mix of independent businesses, cafés, restaurants and shops.
For anyone wanting to delve deeper into Uttoxeter’s stories, Redfern’s Cottage and the Museum of Uttoxeter Life is a must visit to discover more about the people, places, businesses and events that have shaped the town.
Uttoxeter’s market heritage is therefore much more than a chapter in the past. It is part of the town’s character, a tradition of gathering, trading, meeting and making connections that continues to influence the experience of Uttoxeter today.
Stories, Scholars & Surprising Connections
Uttoxeter has strong connections to some fascinating names from English history, literature and industry.
One of the town’s best-known historical figures is Samuel Johnson, whose father, Michael Johnson, was a bookseller who traded at Uttoxeter Market. Samuel Johnson later returned to the town to make amends for refusing to help his father at his market stall. According to the famous story, he stood bareheaded in the rain as an act of penance.
Johnson’s significance extends far beyond Uttoxeter. He wrote A Dictionary of the English Language, first published in 1755, which became one of the most important early English dictionaries and played a significant role in documenting and shaping the English language.
Today, the Samuel Johnson Memorial in the Market Place commemorates his connection with the town.
Uttoxeter also has a literary connection through Mary Howitt, the poet and writer best known for The Spider and the Fly. Howitt spent part of her childhood in Uttoxeter, adding another fascinating chapter to the town’s literary heritage.
For a deeper look at local history, Redfern’s Cottage and the Museum of Uttoxeter Life offer an opportunity to discover more about the people, places, events and everyday life that have shaped Uttoxeter over the years.
The town also has a remarkable industrial story. JCB was founded in Uttoxeter in 1945 by Joseph Cyril Bamford, beginning in a small lock-up garage before growing into a global construction equipment manufacturer. The company remains an important part of Uttoxeter’s identity and industrial heritage and you can discover The JCB Story Tour at The world Head Quarters, in nearby Rocester.
Stay in Style | The Hart at the Heart of Uttoxeter
With so much to discover, staying in the town itself makes it possible to experience more of Uttoxeter without having to rush.
The Hart offers accommodation in the heart of Uttoxeter, alongside food and drink and entertainment, making it a convenient base for exploring the town. Its central location places the Market Place, independent shops, cafés and local attractions within easy reach, while also providing a handy base for visitors attending events at Uttoxeter Racecourse.
A stay in the town allows the day to unfold at a much more relaxed pace, from morning coffee and shopping to an afternoon exploring local heritage before dinner and drinks in the evening.
Browse, Buy & Discover | Independent Shopping in Uttoxeter
Uttoxeter’s independent shops add plenty of character to a wander around the town centre.
Black & White Interiors offers furniture, home interiors and accessories, providing inspiration for anyone looking to add something distinctive to their home.
For gifts, clothing and accessories, Daisy Chain offers plenty to browse, while Henmores brings together country clothing and lifestyle brands.
Combined with the Market Place, cafés and historic streets, Uttoxeter’s independent shopping scene makes exploring the town centre an enjoyable part of a longer stay.
Sip, Savour & Discover | Food, Drink & Experiences
Food and drink can easily become part of the itinerary in Uttoxeter, with a varied choice of independent cafés, restaurants, cocktail bars and pubs.
Time The Vintage Hub combines vintage character with coffee, breakfast, lunch, cakes and lunch, before becoming a lively place for drinks and entertainment later in the day. For speciality coffee, Fueled provides a modern café stop, while BEAR Uttoxeter offers coffee, brunch, food and drinks in a relaxed setting.
When it is time for a longer meal, award-winning Lowe’s on Carter Street offers independent dining centred around seasonal food, quality ingredients and warm hospitality. For something with a South American-inspired flavour, Parrilla Steak & Grill House specialises in food cooked over the grill, with steaks, burgers, seafood and sharing dishes on the menu.
With plenty of places to eat and drink in the town, there is no shortage of reasons to linger over lunch, make dinner part of the evening or enjoy another coffee the following morning.
Racing, Rhythm & Remarkable Experiences
Uttoxeter offers plenty of reasons to make a day or weekend of a visit, with racing, live entertainment and distinctive experiences adding even more to the town’s appeal.
Uttoxeter Racecourse is a major attraction in its own right, hosting National Hunt racing, including the Midlands Grand National, alongside themed racedays and family events throughout the year.
The racecourse is also a venue for large live music and entertainment events, making it a great reason to plan an overnight stay. A day at the races followed by dinner in the town and an evening drink can easily become a full weekend experience.
For something completely different, Chuckle Engine Spirit Company offers gin, rum and vodka experiences at The Globe, providing an opportunity to discover more about spirits, enjoy a tasting experience and add something memorable and different to a stay in Uttoxeter.
With racing, live music and unique experiences all on offer, there is plenty happening in Uttoxeter to keep a stay interesting, and plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
After Dark | Drinks, Dancing & Local Life
Uttoxeter does not have to wind down when the shops close.
Mint Cocktail Company offers cocktails, music and a rooftop terrace, creating a lively option for an evening in the town.
For a more traditional pub experience, Horse & Dove Micro Pub offers craft beer, real ales and a friendly community atmosphere.
Uttoxeter’s local pubs add even more choice, whether the evening calls for a quiet drink, a catch-up with friends or somewhere to continue the night after dinner.
Green Spaces, Great Outdoors & Bramshall Road Park
There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors during a stay in Uttoxeter.
Bramshall Road Park provides a sizeable green space with paths and open areas for walking, alongside a play area, tennis courts, bowling green, skate park, outdoor gym and multi-use games area.
The park has an interesting history of its own. In 1921, local businessman Charles Henry Elkes purchased more than 12 acres and gave the land to the town as a recreation ground.
The National Forest is also within easy reach, offering miles of woodland, countryside and outdoor adventure across the heart of the Midlands. With Uttoxeter as a comfortable base, a stay can combine the best of town and country, with plenty of opportunities to explore further afield before returning to the town for food, drinks and a relaxing evening.
Beyond Uttoxeter | Exploring East Staffordshire
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Uttoxeter is the opportunity to use the town as a base for exploring East Staffordshire.
A longer break can include a visit to Burton upon Trent, with its brewing heritage, its historical regatta, riverside setting, independent businesses and attractions, alongside the wider towns, villages and countryside that make up the district.
Rather than trying to fit everything into one day, staying in Uttoxeter gives visitors more time to explore East Staffordshire at a relaxed pace before returning to the town for an evening meal or drink.
Stay Longer, See More | Alton Towers & the Peak District
For those with time to stay a little longer, there are also attractions beyond East Staffordshire that can be incorporated into a wider break.
Alton Towers is close to Uttoxeter and provides an exciting option for families, thrill-seekers and theme park fans. Its proximity makes it possible to combine a day at the theme park with accommodation, food and an evening in Uttoxeter.
The Peak District is another option for extending a stay, offering dramatic landscapes such as The Roaches and Luds Church, picturesque villages, walking routes and opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
Together, these nearby destinations make it easy to turn a short visit into a multi-night break, with Uttoxeter providing a welcoming base between days out.
Make More of the Moment | Make Uttoxeter the Base
From Samuel Johnson and Mary Howitt to JCB, from independent shops and cafés to race days, live entertainment and unique experiences, Uttoxeter offers plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
With accommodation in the heart of the town, a choice of places to eat and drink, green spaces to enjoy and the wider attractions of East Staffordshire within easy reach, Uttoxeter makes an ideal base for exploring more of the area.
Whether a break is built around heritage, food, shopping, racing, live events, family time or simply discovering somewhere new, staying in Uttoxeter offers the chance to experience more of East Staffordshire, and turn a quick visit into a proper getaway.