Beyond the Bottle Oven Tour

Hear and see the stories of the craftspeople who shaped our city, beginning at the Gladstone Pottery Museum. Explore the industrial heritage of the Potteries and learn about the social impact of those who made Stoke-on-Trent ceramics a global phenomenon.

Then, a short walk across the road takes you to the original doors of the Duchess China 1888 Ltd factory for a tour of a working factory, where artisans produce fine bone china that is exported worldwide. By the end of this tour, guests will gain a renewed understanding of the contemporary pottery industry through an authentic experience. They will also discover the tenacity and passion of the city’s people amidst the challenging climate of modern manufacturing.

Tour starts at 10.30am at the Gladstone Pottery Museum, costs £45 per person (including lunch) and lasts approximately 3-4 hours.

Please note there is no wheelchair access at the Duchess China 1988 Ltd factory.

Please call the museum on 01782 237777, Weds-Sat 10:00-16:45, Sunday 11:00-15:45 to book a place on the tour.

Upcoming Dates:

Thursday 21st May 2026     Thursday 4th June 2026     Thursday 11th June 2026

Thursday 18th June 2026    Thursday 16th July 2026     Thursday 23rd July 2026

Thursday 30th July 2026     Thursday 6th August 2026