Passport to Staffordshire

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Passport to Staffordshire

From marmite to breweries, from the potteries to the countryside, from coal mining to canals, and from The Roaches to the rivers, this is your passport to Staffordshire.

We’ve put together a list of the Top 50 places you can visit in the county to help you get to know your new home county of Staffordshire. The list is packed full of places, activities, sports, nightlife, local landmarks and of course a little bit of history.

Our students have got their passport to Staffordshire! As the weather gets brighter, we'll be sharing some of the best places to visit in Staffordshire to inspire your weekends.

Come on a night at the LRV with me

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Staffordshire University student, Tiffani, takes us with her to see Marvin Humes perform at our on campus nightclub, Leek Road Venue (LRV).

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Asking our graduates 'What is your favourite place in Staffordshire?'

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Find out what our graduates' favourite places in Staffordshire are.

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Local heritage

Explore treasure at the city museum

Travel back in time and discover the history of the Potteries. Read more

Discover the world's greatest collection of Staffordshire ceramics and the Staffordshire Hoard, a trove of Anglo-Saxon treasure. Find out more: https://www.stokemuseums.org.uk/

Find out how beautiful pottery is made

Stoke-on-Trent is known as the ‘World Capital of Ceramics’, find out how beautiful pottery is made. Read more

With Stoke-on-Trent being the ‘World Capital of Ceramics’ there’s no better excuse to spend time finding out how our beautiful pottery is made. From Emma Bridgewater and Moorcroft to Burleigh and Wedgwood there are plenty of options to take a ceramics factory tour and find out more about what our city is internationally-renowned for. Find out more: https://www.visitstoke.co.uk/see-and-do/the-potteries/ceramic-factory-tours

Discover the Potteries Tile Trail

The Potteries Tile Trail includes a series of six introductory 'tile trails'. Read more

Yes, you can get excited about tiles! The Potteries Tile Trail includes a series of six introductory 'tile trails' - one for each of Stoke- on-Trent's famous six towns: Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Fenton and Longton. The trails take you around various locations in the towns where you will find interesting examples of ceramics in buildings and public spaces. Find out more: https://ceramiccitystories.info/potteries-tile-trail

Visit Stoke Minster

Just minutes from the Stoke-on-Trent campus is Stoke Minster. Read more

Stoke Minster is where the roots of the city's ceramic prosperity can be found. The Minster is where Josiah Wedgwood is buried and there are memorials to the Wedgwood, Spode and Minton families. The Minster contains unique Minton memorial wall tiles, as well as an exquisite Minton tiled floor in the chancel and sanctuary. Find out more: http://www.stokeminster.org/

Brampton Museum

Through a series of fascinating collections, Brampton Museum tells the story of Newcastle-under-Lyme and its people from the Roman invasion onward. Read more

Find out more: https://www.newcastle-staffs.gov.uk/museum

Explore the life and work of Josiah Wedgwood

Explore the life and work of Josiah Wedgwood and his family. Read more

Wedgwood Museum at World of Wedgwood in Barlaston is home to the priceless Portland Vase dating back to 1790. Find out more: https://www.worldofwedgwood.com/

Explore the heritage of the Potteries at Middleport Pottery

Middleport Pottery, home of Burleigh, is an exciting visitor destination in the heart of Burslem, the Mother Town of the Potteries. Read more

World famous Burleigh pottery has been created here using traditional methods since 1889. Follow the Heritage Trail to step back in time to explore the Visitor Centre which comprises Victorian offices, bottle kiln, bath house, steam engine, and mould store, and learn about the people and events which have shaped the pottery. Find out more: https://www.burleigh.co.uk/pages/visit-middleport-pottery

Have a nose around the home of an historic icon

Darwin House, in Lichfield, is an accredited Museum that was once the family home of doctor, inventor and published poet Erasmus Darwin (1731 – 1802). Read more

With its unique place in Georgian history Darwin House showcases the breadth of Erasmus Darwin’s interests and achievements which laid the foundations for his grandson and evolutionary biologist Charles. Ponder in the room where leading Midland industrialists and thinkers were thought to have gathered and shared ground-breaking ideas. Find out more: https://www.erasmusdarwin.org/

Big days out

Hang out with the monkeys

Walk amongst monkeys and enjoy a unique day at Trentham Monkey Forest. Read more

The Forest is home to 140 free-ranging Barbary macaques. Visitors can walk along the 3/4 of a mile pathway and find out about the conservation of this endangered species. Find out more: https://monkey-forest.com/

Alton Towers

Alton Towers is the largest theme park in the UK. Read more

Alton Tower spans 550 acres of land in central Staffordshire. Enjoy the UK’s latest wooden rollercoaster experience on Wicker Man, brave Oblivion’s iconic vertical drop, ride The Smiler’s 14 loops!

Find out more: https://www.altontowers.com/

Slide and splash at Alton Towers Waterpark

While Alton Towers is best known for its roller coasters and other thrill rides, did you know it’s also home to a waterpark. Read more

You don’t need to be a hotel guest to book into the Water Park at Splash Landings Hotel. Start by drifting along lazy rivers, then get drenched by the crazy cannons before steeling yourself to brave the jaw-dropping speed of our awesome Master Blaster water coaster. Find out more: https://www.altontowers.com/explore/waterpark/

Come face to face with exotic and endangered animals

Peak Wildlife Park, nestled in the heart of Staffordshire Moorlands. Read more

Peak Wildlife Park, nestled in the picturesque heart of the Staffordshire Moorlands, is a unique wildlife attraction that combines conservation, education, and entertainment for visitors of all ages. With its commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices, the park has rapidly become one of the UK's most beloved wildlife destinations. Whether you love lemurs, have a passion for polar bears or want to wander with the wallabies, the park has something for you. Find out more: https://www.peakwildlifepark.co.uk/

Go back in time on the railway

The Churnet Valley Railway offers a nostalgic steam train ride Read more

hThe Churnet Valley Railway offers a nostalgic steam train ride through Staffordshire's hidden valley, and into the Staffordshire Moorlands on the outskirts of the Peak District. Located near the market town of Leek, you can take a step back in time to the 1950s and 60s.

The Churnet Valley Railway offers a nostalgic steam train ride through Staffordshire's hidden valley, and into the Staffordshire Moorlands on the outskirts of the Peak District. Located near the market town of Leek, you can take a step back in time to the 1950s and 60s. Find out more: https://www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/

Go trekking with an alpaca

Get at one with nature and go for a walk with an alpaca at Wetley Moor Alpacas Read more

Have a gentle trek across lovely countryside and learn more about these beautiful animals. Find out more: https://www.wetleymooralpacas.com/

Have an active day out at the SnowDome

From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and swimming. Read more

You can have an action-packed day out at Tamworth SnowDome. Find out more: https://www.snowdome.co.uk/

Waterworld

Open all year round, Waterworld Aqua Park is an epic adventure for the whole family to enjoy, with over 30 different rides and attractions. Read more

There’s also the outdoor pool for those looking to enjoy some sunshine in the summer months! Waterworld is also home to Adventure Mini Golf with two 18-hole, tiki-themed mini golf courses. Find out more: https://www.waterworld.co.uk

Nature

Chill out for free in a local park

Hanley Park is one of the city's heritage parks. Read more

Facilities include: the restored Pavillion, a restored Boathouse, an all-weather, floodlit sports zone for cricket, football, basketball, hockey and tennis, the restored bandstand, lake and fountains. Find out more: https://www.visitstoke.co.uk/see-and-do/hanley-park-p737111

Go outdoors in the Staffordshire Peak District

The Staffordshire Peak District has some of the most spectacular views in the UK. Read more

From rocky outcrops to rolling hills. Whether you want an adrenaline-fueled activity like rock-climbing or a peaceful cycle and walk, there is plenty to discover. Find out more: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/home

Explore the Staffordshire Way

The Staffordshire Way is a long-distance footpath spanning 92 miles. Read more

The Staffordshire Way has been established by Staffordshire County Council. It spans the length of the County for 92 miles from Mow Cop to Kinver Edge. The route is based wholly on public rights of way or paths on which access has been granted. Find out more: https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/environment/RightsofWay/distancewalks/ROWPromotedRoutesMonthlyWalks.aspx

Get in touch with wildlife at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is our county’s local wildlife charity Read more

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is dedicated to looking after Staffordshire's wildlife and wild places. As well as managing lots of brilliant nature reserves, they also stage a variety of events than span the county. Find out more: https://www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/

Walk or cycle the canal ways

Did you know that Staffordshire is also known ‘canal county’? Read more

We have an unreal 154 miles of canals to explore. Find out more: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/canal-and-river-network/trent-and-mersey-canal

The Roaches

Impressive gritstone edges and craggy rocks loved by walkers and climbers. Read more

It groups together two main gritstone outcrops, 'Ramshaw Rocks' famous for the 'Winking Man' rock formation and 'Hen Cloud' offering stunning panoramic views. From the craggy peaks, heather moorland, myths, folklore, and romantic film locations, the Roaches it associated with all, and recently of all it has become synonymous for Wallabies roaming wild that escaped from a private zoo in the 1930's. Find out more: https://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/business-directory/the-roaches

Sport activities

Get a sweat on at the Sports Centre

Our sports centre is located on our Leek Road campus and is open to students, staff and the public. Read more

Named after Stoke City player and football legend, Sir Stanley Matthews CBE, our sports centre is located on our Leek Road campus and is open to students, staff and the public. The gym features a suite of the latest MATRIX Fitness equipment and the centre is also home to basketball, climbing and much more. Find out more: https://www.staffs.ac.uk/about/facilities/sports-centre

Get wet paddleboarding or kayaking

Taking in the stunning views of the Staffordshire Peak District from the unique vantage point of a paddleboard or kayak at Tittesworth Water Sports. Read more

You can hire equipment (including wet suits and buoyancy aids) and go solo or book an instructor-led session. Find out more: https://www.tittesworthwater.co.uk/

Go horse riding on Cannock Chase

Go on a guided horse trek through the tranquil forest of Cannock Chase in Staffordshire. Read more

No previous horse riding experience is necessary as Cannock chase Trekking Centre has an extensive selection of horses suitable for all abilities. Find out more: https://www.cannockchasehorsetrekking.com/

Get a head for heights and go climbing

Awesome Walls Stoke is one of England's largest dedicated bouldering centres. Read more

It has more than 900 square metres of bouldering made up of walls and features to keep any climber happy. Find out more: https://awesomewalls.co.uk/stoke/

Bounce yourself happy at Flip Out Stoke

Flip Our Stoke is an indoor adventure park in Stone. Read more

From trampolines and a foam pit to the Ninja Warrior (jump and duck to avoid being swiped off the podium by their revolving wipeout machine) there’s plenty to test your balance and stamina. Find out more: https://www.flipout.co.uk/view/flip-out-stoke

Unleash your inner ninja at Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park

Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park, in Hanley, allows you to tackle the huge selection of Ninja Warrior UK Adventure obstacles. Read more

The course has varied difficulty levels so you can progress through to become a Ninja Warrior. Find out more: https://ninjawarrioruk.co.uk/stoke-on-trent/

Unit 1 Parkworks

Stoke-On-Trents first and only indoor skatepark. Created for the riding pleasure of all ages in every discipline including - Skateboard, Stunt Scooter, BMX, Inline and Quad Skates. Read more

Find out more: https://unit1parkworks.co.uk/

Clip 'n Climb

Featuring 21 different challenges, including a daring Hang and Drop Slide. Read more

Climbing is one of the best ways to keep fit while having fun - you should definitely give it a try, even if you’re an absolute beginner. Each different climb is designed to fit the skills and abilities of the participants, so everyone can have a good time Find out more: https://stoke.clipnclimb.co.uk/

Inflato Stoke

Inflato is Stoke's ONLY inflatable air park featuring obstacle courses, mega (and mini) slides, gladiator battle, Bungee run and base jump, basketball and more. Read more

Find out more: https://www.inflatostoke.co.uk/

Leisure and culture

Join a club or society

Our Students’ Union has a fantastic choice of clubs and societies you might be interested in joining. Read more

Find your passion, meet more people and try something new! Find out more: https://www.staffsunion.com/getinvolved/clubsandsocieties/

See a show in the Cultural Quarter

From West End shows to ballet, opera and big-name comedians. Read more

You can find something you want to watch at The Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall in Hanley’s Cultural Quarter. Find out more: https://www.atgtickets.com/

Take in a football match

Want to take in the beautiful game? Read more

Stoke City FC, an EFL Championship side, play at the bet365 Stadium while just down the road Port Vale FC, a League One club, play at Vale Park in Burslem. Find out more: https://www.visitstoke.co.uk/ideas-and-inspirations/football

Test your nerve in an escape room

Get locked in a themed room at Escape Stoke Read more

Get locked in a themed room at Escape Stoke for 60 minutes and find out if you have what it takes to get out in time. Find out more: https://www.escape-stoke.co.uk/

Take a shopping trip in Hanley

Pop up to Hanley for a spot of shopping on your doorstep. Read more

From clothing and jewellery to hair salons and cafes, pop up to Hanley for a spot of shopping on your doorstep. Find out more: https://www.stokeontrentcitycentre.co.uk/directory

Change your reality with VR gaming

GAMEGRID, in Hanley, is the West Midland’s largest Virtual Reality & Esports Gaming Hub. Read more

Assemble your squad and discover their VR, Racing, PC Gaming, Escape Game experiences and more. Find out more: https://www.gamegrid.gg/

Feel the need for speed on an electric go-kart

Teamsport Go Karting Stoke, in Burslem, is home to Stoke-on-Trent's longest indoor karting track. Read more

Put your put down up to 40mph on an e-kart. Find out more: https://www.team-sport.co.uk/go-kart-tracks/stoke

Go for a game at a board game café

The Long Rest in Hanley is a board game cafe and bar. They have more than 400 games and also serve food and drink. Read more

Find out more: https://longrest.co.uk/

Learn how to throw a pot at LoveClay

LoveClay, in Fenton, is a studio that offers a fascinating experience in the world of pottery for complete beginners to experienced potters. Read more

Whether you’re a budding artist seeking to unleash your creative spirit or an admirer or craftsmanship, they offer courses and events for all. Find out more: https://www.loveclay.co.uk/

Strike out for fun at Tenpin Stoke

Tenpin Stoke, in Festival Park, Etruria, is the place to be for all your bowling fun with an impressive 30 state-of-the-art bowling lanes. Read more

Find out more: https://www.tenpin.co.uk/our-locations/stoke/

AirSpace Gallery

AirSpace is a gallery, project space and studios, led by and run by artists. Read more

AirSpace has an ongoing series of projects, which are developed through a mixture of open calls and invitation. This makes for an exciting and vibrant mix of exhibitions, residencies, projects, artist development events and public realm works. Find out more: https://www.airspacegallery.org/

Odeon Cinema

State-of-the-art cinema for blockbusters in 2D or 3D format, plus family and student deals. Read more

Find out more: https://www.odeon.co.uk/cinemas/stoke/

The Clubhouse

The Clubhouse is packed full of fun activities including indoor crazy golf, table tennis, beer pong, and retro gaming. Read more

Find out more: https://www.theclubhousestoke.com/

Laserquest

Are you ready to take part in the most immersive experience possible – all under one roof? Read more

Laser Quest Stoke welcomes you to take part in the ultimate Laser Quest sci-fi action adventure! You’ll love the adrenaline pumping exhilaration of stalking your opponents and unleashing a searing volley of laser fire in the Laser Quest battle zone of the 21st century. This is no video game – this is for REAL. Find out more: https://lqstoke.co.uk/

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