Middleport Pottery, located in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, is a fascinating destination that holds a significant place in the history of ceramics.
Preserving History: The Restoration of Middleport Pottery
Middleport Pottery’s story is one of resilience and preservation. In the early 2010s, the pottery faced the threat of closure due to the deteriorating condition of its buildings. However, a restoration and regeneration project was initiated thanks to the intervention of The Prince’s Foundation and the United Kingdom Historic Building Preservation Trust. With a combination of private and public funding, Middleport Pottery underwent a remarkable transformation.
The restoration process, which lasted for three years and cost £9 million, aimed to revitalize the site while maintaining its historical integrity. The project saved Middleport Pottery from potential demise and created a vibrant visitor destination and a hub for creative businesses. Today, the pottery stands as a testament to the power of restoration and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
Discovering Middleport Pottery: A Guided Tour
One of the highlights of visiting Middleport Pottery is the opportunity to take a guided tour of the site and factory. Led by knowledgeable and passionate guides, the tour provides a unique insight into the traditional pottery production methods practised at Middleport for over a century.
As you embark on the tour, you’ll be transported back in time, exploring the various stages of the pottery-making process. The journey begins with a visit to the heritage offices, where you can delve into the history of Burleigh Pottery and learn about the influential figures who shaped its legacy. Moving through the factory, you’ll witness the skilled craftsmen in action, meticulously shaping clay and transforming it into exquisite pottery pieces.
A particular highlight of the tour is the chance to step inside the Grade II listed bottle kiln, one of the few remaining in the city. This iconic structure serves as a reminder of Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heritage and the rich tradition of pottery-making that once thrived in the area.
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