Wedgwood Visitor Centre
Wedgwood Visitor Centre
Welcome to the Wedgwood Visitor Centre, set in over 240 acres in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside.
Pottery History
In 1765, Josiah Wedgwood created a new pottery company that developed a unique satin finished strikingly blue form of earthenware which impressed the then British Queen consort Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, who gave permission to call it Queen's Ware; it was a smash hit across Europe.
At the time people were discovering the history of the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. Wedgwood took advantage of that fascination by copying ancient pottery patterns and motifs. Certainly among his most popular styles was his development of the distinct blue Jasperware. This alone took over 3,000 samples to create.
Now 250 years later you too can experience the magic of Wedgwood!
Factory Tour
The skills of perfection learnt through years of training are evident throughout the factory tour.
Delicate cast handles are gently placed into position on the wares by hand to give a seamless finish to the products.
Cheese-hard Jasper clay vases are turned on a lathe and cut into perfectly symmetrical shapes using processes that remain unchanged since Josiah Wedgwood’s time.
All pre-fired wares are fettled and sponged to ensure a perfectly smooth unblemished appearance before being carefully loaded into the kilns.
Learning at the Wedgwood Museum: an introduction
The new £10m Wedgwood Museum at Barlaston provides the first opportunity for the Wedgwood Museum collections to be on public view for many years. The museum enables visitors to discover the story of Wedgwood from the mid-18th century right through to the modern era, with a focus on the creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship of the Wedgwood family and their employees.
Have a Go!
Here is a unique opportunity to meet and talk to the artisans as they showcase traditional ceramic skills. Why not have a go yourself with the expert tuition of the master craftsmen and women.
Roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty and shape your own masterpiece on the potter’s wheel.
Learn how to ornament a pot, paint your personal design onto a plate or create an exclusive pattern using the skill of lithography. These are just some of the activities for all ages to enjoy in our fun and interactive studio.
Whatever you create or decorate will be yours to keep as a unique souvenir of your visit to Wedgwood.
Educational Visits information
The Wedgwood Museum has been advised during its development by a learning panel including education advisors from both Stoke and Staffordshire LAs, and by colleagues from several higher and further education institutions. The museum operates a full learning programme for schools and other educational groups, including: