Stone, Staffordshire: Market Town History, Facts, Things to Do [Guide]

LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO AROUND STONE STAFFORDSHIRE? YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE!

Stone, a lively market town in Staffordshire, packs a punch far beyond its compact size. As a Stoke local who’s spent many a weekend exploring this gem for its outdoor markets, thrift shops and famed eateries, I can vouch for the modern charm and vibes this town brings.

From its world-class food scene to its peaceful canal walks, Stone offers a refreshing retreat from the smoke and bustle of larger cities.

This informative guide will walk you through Stone‘s rich past, spotlight its present-day attractions, and share insider tips on the best things to see and do.

Stone Markets

The markets in Stone are more than just places to shop – they’re the town’s lifeblood. For centuries, these gatherings have drawn people from far and wide, creating a hub of activity and commerce that continues to this day.

For fresh, local produce, the Stone Farmers Market is a must. Held on the first Saturday of each month (except January), it’s a showcase of Staffordshire’s finest – with everything from farm-fresh veg to artisanal cheeses and handcrafted goods. It also offers a chance to chat with the producers and get a real taste of local life.

Tuesdays and Saturdays see the High Street transform for the general market, with stalls selling everything under the sun, in proper old school style. From fresh fish to flowers, clothes to kitchenware, it’s the kind of place where you might pop in for a loaf of bread and leave with a new wardrobe and a set of garden tools.

Market timing: The farmers’ market is busiest in the first hour. If you want the best selection, arrive early, but for potential bargains, come in the last hour when vendors might discount perishables.

The Stone Antiques Market, also known as the Crafts and Collectables Market, is a treasure trove. Held on the third Saturday of each month (except January), it brings together a motley crew of antique dealers. You never know what you might find here.

Other Stone Markets:
Stone Outdoor Market (Tue, Fri and Sat, 9am-5pm)
Stone Food & Drink Festival (every July)

Related post: Staffordshire’s Royal Market Towns [Guide]

Stone Cuisine

Stone’s food scene is punching well above its weight. It’s not just good – it’s world-class, with a Michelin Guide restaurant to prove it.

The Little Seeds Restaurant has put Stone firmly on the culinary map. This Michelin Guide restaurant serves up creative, seasonal dishes showcasing the best of local produce. Their tasting menu is a journey through Staffordshire’s fields and farms, telling a story of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Stone’s traditional pubs are the stuff of legend, serving up hearty grub that’ll stick to your ribs. No26 at Aston Marina boasts fresh seafood, stunning waterside views and tranquil vibes.

→ Read my top recommended restaurants in Stone guide here:

Stone’s tea rooms and cafes are the perfect spots for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. The Crown Hotel, housed in a quaint 17th-century building, does one of the finest afternoon teas in Staffordshire. Their scones are the size of your fist and twice as tasty.

What sets Stone’s food scene apart is its commitment to local sourcing. Many restaurants here have strong relationships with nearby farms and producers. This farm-to-table approach means you’re not just eating good food – you’re tasting the very essence of Staffordshire.

Seasonal delicacy: In late spring, ask for asparagus at local restaurants. Nearby farms produce some of the best in the country.

Related: 7 Best Restaurants in Cheadle, Staffordshire

Top Things to Do Around Stone

1. Discover Lymestone Brewery

Beer enthusiasts won’t want to miss a visit to Lymestone Brewery. This family-run microbrewery produces a range of award-winning ales using traditional methods.

Brewery visit: Lymestone Brewery offers tours, but book in advance for a chance to taste their seasonal brews not available elsewhere.

You can learn about the brewing process on a tour, or just pop in and simply enjoy a tasting session in their cosy tap room.

Lymestone Brewery (Google Maps)
Location: Mt Industrial Estate, The Old Brewery, Mount Rd, Stone ST15 8LL
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8am–4pm, Saturday 11 am–2 pm, Sunday closed

2. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Stone House Hotel

Indulge in a quintessentially British experience with traditional afternoon tea at Stone House Hotel. This charming country house hotel provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon, where you can unwind in the cosy restaurant, relaxing lounge, or even on the stunning terrace when the weather permits.

You’ll be served a delightful spread of delicious sandwiches, fresh homemade cakes, scones, preserves, and petit fours.

It’s a local favourite and a wonderful way to pause your day, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a catch-up with friends or family.

Stone House Hotel (Google Maps)
Location: House Hotel, Stafford Rd, Stone ST15 0BQ

3. Visit the historic Gladstone Pottery Museum

The Gladstone Pottery Museum in Longton is one of the few places in the world where you can still see towering bottle kilns and its surrounding factory buildings, preserved exactly as they were when in use in the Victorian era.

My favourite of all Stoke’s pottery museums, this particular one stands out for its interactive gallery, preserved factory rooms, doctor’s office and workers dorms, offering a fascinating glimpse into Staffordshire’s industrial legacy.

Try a Pottery Course at Gladstone Pottery:

➡️ The Potters Wheel Throwing Course is a 2.5-hour beginner’s course for 1 or 2 people. Learn to centre clay and create your own pot to be fired and collected later.
➡️ For a more thorough experience, the Blacksmith Training Course is a full-day (6-hour) course where you’ll learn fundamental techniques and forge several items to take home.
➡️ Alternatively, the 3-hour Forge and Feast Experience allows you forge your own knife and pickle spike then test it out with a delicious meal, all within the historic forge setting.

Why Book These?

✅ Authentic Location: Learn these traditional skills within the historic walls of a real Victorian pottery.
✅ Create a Lasting Memory: You get to take home a physical reminder of your experience.
✅ Expert Tuition: All courses are led by skilled, friendly instructors.

Oh and don’t miss the Bottle Oven Flame Show, telling the story of the crucial bottle kilns and their contribution to the Potteries’ success.

I found this museum more fascinating than I’d anticipated – I learned that the city’s world-leading pottery trade included not just pottery but also ceramics, enamel and clay, and was the heart of the tile-making industry – producing tiles for Queen Victoria, Parliament and the upper classes, and all the way down to the working classes.

→ Book Your Pottery Course HERE ←

Gladstone Pottery Museum (Google Maps)
Location: Uttoxeter Rd, Longton, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 1PQ
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 11am–4pm (Monday and Tuesday closed)

Read more: Best Time to Visit the West Midlands [by a Local]

4. Take a Tour of Sixtowns Gin Distillery

Step into the world of artisan spirits with a tour of SIXTOWNS, named after the six towns that make up the city of Stoke-on-Trent This is a fantastic experience for gin lovers and a perfect, sophisticated addition to a day out.

The tour takes you behind the scenes to see how their small-batch gins are crafted, from the unique copper stills to the botanical selection.

You’ll learn about the distillation process and, most importantly, enjoy a tasting of their core range of gins. It’s an insightful and delicious journey into modern craftsmanship in the heart of The Potteries.

→ Book Your Gin Distillery & Tasting Tour HERE ←

Get 50% off your tickets when you book online in advance above:

This experience is a modern take on Stoke’s manufacturing heritage and is perfect for a couples’ activity or as a unique gift.

SIXTOWNS Distillery (Google Maps)
Address: T & P, SIXTOWNS Gin Units, Wedgwood Dr, Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent ST12 9ER
Admission: £25 per person at the door. Get 50% off when you book your tickets online in advance HERE:
Opening Times: Wed-Sun: 10am-5pm, closed Mon-Tue

5. Explore Trentham Monkey Forest

Just a short drive from Stone, Trentham Monkey Forest offers a unique experience. Walk among free-roaming Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.

It’s not only a fun day out but also an educational one, with knowledgeable guides on hand to share fascinating facts about these primates.

Did you know: Trentham Monkey Forest is the UK’s only monkey forest? You can read more fascinating facts about Stoke-on-Trent here:

Trentham Monkey Forest (Google Maps)
Location: Trentham Estate, Stone Rd, Tittensor, ST12 9HR
Opening Hours: 10am-5pm daily

6. Wander the World of Wedgwood

Take a trip into the rich history of British ceramics at the World of Wedgwood, celebrating Stoke’s most famous son Josiah Wedgwood, the pioneering pottery master who put Stoke on the map as the world’s ceramics capital.

Located in nearby Barlaston, this attraction offers factory tours, hands-on experiences, and a stunning museum showcasing Wedgwood’s iconic designs through the centuries.

After visiting here I learned so much about Josiah Wedgwood’s importance and contributions, and I really admire and respect the man. Especially the way he transformed Stoke and raised many of its residents out of poverty by providing them with jobs and housing.

✨ Get Hands-On at the Clay Studio

Ready to go beyond the tour and feel the clay for yourself? The World of Wedgwood offers a fantastic One-Hour Pottery Taster Session in their Clay Studio, perfect for beginners.

✅ Guided Fun: A friendly studio host will start with a demonstration before guiding you step-by-step on your own potter’s wheel.
✅ Create a Keepsake: You’ll make your very own natural Jasperware pot, the most famous of Josiah Wedgwood’s inventions.
✅ All Inclusive: The session provides all you need: clay, tools, towels, and an apron. Glazing and firing of your pot are also included.
✅ Take It Home: Your finished pot will be fired on-site and ready for collection 4-6 weeks later, or can be posted to you for an extra fee.

This experience makes for a memorable and creative addition to any visit.

→ Book Your World of Wedgwood Pottery Class HERE ←

World of Wedgwood (Google Maps)
Location: Wedgwood Dr, Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent ST12 9ER
Opening Hours: 10am-5pm daily

Related post: 24+ Best Family-Friendly Activities in Stoke

7. Trentham Estate and Shopping Village

Following your Monkey Forest visit, head next door to the Trentham Estate – a must-visit attraction. With its beautifully landscaped gardens, expansive lake, and charming shopping village, there’s something for everyone.

Take a leisurely stroll through the Italian Gardens, enjoy a boat trip on the lake, or indulge in some retail therapy at the boutique shops.

Trentham Estate (Google Maps), Trentham Shopping Village (Google Maps)
Location: Stone Rd, Trentham, ST4 8JG
Opening Hours: 9am-8pm daily (Estate), 10am-5:30pm daily (Shopping Village)

Staying in the area? Stone is close to the Peak District, and I recommend booking a lodge with a hot tub overlooking the stunning countryside for a truly memorable experience.

8. Walk around Downs Banks

Nature lovers will find solace in National Trust – Downs Banks, a humble yet beautiful nature reserve just outside Stone.

The site offers picturesque walking trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning views of the Staffordshire countryside. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a family picnic.

Downs Banks (Google Maps)
Location: Wash Dale Ln, Oulton Heath, Stone ST15 8UU
Opening Hours: 24/7

Further reading: A Guide to Cannock Chase Forest AONB

---

9. Family-fun at Come Into Play

If you’re travelling with little ones, Come Into Play is a fantastic indoor soft play centre that will keep them entertained for hours.

With its multi-level play frames, slides, and dedicated areas for toddlers, it’s a great option for rainy days or when the kids need to burn off some energy.

Come Into Play (Google Maps)
Location: Unit A, Whitebridge Ln, Stone ST15 8LQ
Opening Hours: 9am-6:30pm daily

10. Explore The Borehole

For a unique dining experience, head to The Borehole. This micropub and bottle shop offers a rotating selection of craft beers, ciders, and wines.

Its intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

The Borehole (Google Maps)
Location: Mt Industrial Estate, Mount Rd, Stone ST15 8LL
Opening Hours: Monday to Tuesday 1pm–9:30pm, Wednesday to Thursday 12pm-10pm, Friday to Saturday 12pm–10:30pm, Sunday 12pm-10pm

11. Jump around at Flip Out Stoke

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Flip Out Stoke is the place to be. Stoke’s biggest and best indoor adventure park, this massive trampoline park offers wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and even a Ninja Warrior course. It’s great fun for both kids and adults.

Flip Out Stoke (Google Maps)
Location: Opal Way Stone Business Park, Opal Way, Stone ST15 0SS
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Friday 11am–7pm, Saturday to Sunday 10am–7pm, Monday 11am-7pm (Tuesday closed)

12. Clip ‘n Climb

For a fun and challenging activity, try Clip ‘n Climb. With a variety of climbing walls suitable for all ages and abilities, it’s a great way to test your strength and agility while having a blast.

Based right in Stone, Clip ‘n Climb is a superb activity for young adults and families looking for something different to do here.

Clip ‘n Climb (Google Maps)
Location: Unit 6, Douglas Park, Opal Way, Stone ST15 0YJ
Opening Hours: Monday 1pm–6:30pm, Thursday 2pm–7:30pm, Friday 10am–7:30pm, Saturday to Sunday 9am–5:30pm (Tuesday and Wednesday closed)

13. Ancient High House, Stafford

Drop by nearby Stafford and take a tour inside the Ancient High House – a museum in the heart of the town centre that offers a sneak peek into the lives of the people that lived here in the 16th century.

This beautifully preserved townhouse is the largest timber-framed Tudor town house in England, providing visitors a fascinating journey through 500 years of history.

Built for the wealthy Dorrington family in 1595, the house once dominated the skyline of Stafford, and King Charles I stayed here during his visit to Shrewsbury.

Ancient High House (Google Maps)
Location: 48 Greengate St, Stafford ST16 2JA
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10am–4pm (Sunday and Monday closed)

Further reading: Leek & Peak District, Staffordshire (Complete Guide)

14. Gentleshaw Wildlife Centre

Perfect for animal lovers, the small but charming Gentleshaw Wildlife Centre is home to a variety of rescued birds of prey, as well as some small mammals and reptiles.

The knowledgeable staff offer informative talks and flying displays, and you can even pet some of the animals, making it an excellent day out for the family.

Gentleshaw Wildlife Centre (Google Maps)
Location: Stone Rd, Eccleshall, Stafford ST21 6JY
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 11am–4:30pm, Sunday 11am–4pm (Monday and Tuesday closed)

Read more: 6 Towns of Stoke-on-Trent Maps [Free Downloadable PDFs]

Stone: One Day Itinerary

Morning

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Stone’s charming cafes, I recommend Oatcakes & Milkshakes for it’s hearty full English dishes or delicious local Oatcakes.

After fuelling up, take a leisurely stroll along the High Street, popping into the local shops and perhaps catching the market if it’s a market day, while admiring the town’s historic Tudor and Edwardian architecture as you go.

Walking route: There’s a lovely circular walk from Stone to Aston Marina along the canal, then back through the fields. It takes about an hour and offers beautiful views.

Then, head down to Gladstone Pottery Museum and learn all about the region’s industrial legacy as the pottery capital of the world.

Afternoon

Grab lunch at Aston Marina or if you’re pushing the boat out, sample the cuisine at Michelin Guide Little Seeds, before heading to Downs Banks for a peaceful walk in nature.

If the weather’s not cooperating, visit the nearby Trentham Estate to explore its beautiful gardens and shopping village, followed by a walk around the UK’s only monkey forest where 140 Barbary macaques roam freely.

Alternatively, you could visit the Lymestone Brewery for a tour and tasting instead.

Evening

As the day winds down, treat yourself to dinner at one of Stone’s excellent restaurants, my top picks would be either Thai Lanna or the family-run Pasta di Piazza.

If you’re visiting in the summer, consider a evening stroll along the Trent and Mersey Canal to walk off your meal and enjoy the peaceful waterside scenery.

✨ Psst… fancy staying over on a Barge at Aston Marina? Make your trip truly memorable by staying over in one of Aston marina’s narrowboats! With plenty of walking trails, nearby Trentham Estate, making a weekend of Stone is worthwhile. Book your stay at Aston Marina HERE:

You may also like: Free Things to Do in the West Midlands with Kids

Brief History of Stone, Staffordshire

✦ Stone’s history stretches back over a thousand years. The town’s name is believed to derive from a pile of stones that marked the burial place of two Anglo-Saxon princes, Wulfhere and Rufin, who were murdered in 665 AD.

✦ In the medieval period, Stone grew in importance due to its strategic location on the road between London and Chester. The town became a centre for the leather and shoemaking industries, which thrived until the 19th century.

✦ The arrival of the Trent and Mersey Canal in the 18th century brought new prosperity to Stone. The town became an important inland port, with many canalside warehouses and wharves being built. This industrial heritage is still visible today in the town’s architecture.

✦ In the 19th century, Stone’s fortunes were further boosted by the arrival of the railway. The town’s station, built in 1848, connected Stone to the wider world and helped to spur its growth.

✦ Today, while Stone has evolved with the times, it still retains much of its historic charm. The town centre is a conservation area, with many listed buildings that tell the story of Stone’s rich past.

Further reading: 10 Best Family Day Trips in the West Midlands

Interesting Facts about Stone

1. Stone was once known as the “brewery town” due to its numerous breweries. While most have now closed, the town still maintains a strong brewing tradition with Lymestone Brewery.
2. The town’s coat of arms features two princes, referencing the legend of the town’s founding.
3. Stone was a major staging post on the London to Holyhead coach route, and many of its old coaching inns still stand today.
4. The Trent and Mersey Canal, which runs through Stone, was engineered by the famous James Brindley.
5. Stone’s annual Food and Drink Festival, held in October, is one of the largest of its kind in Staffordshire.
6. The town has a rich sporting heritage, with Stone SP Cricket Club being one of the oldest in the county, dating back to 1874.
7. Stone was home to several shoe and boot factories in the 19th century, with some buildings from this era still standing today.

Conclusion

For a tiny countryside town, there’s surprisingly plenty of things to see and do here. Aside from the list above, Stone’s location in the heart of Staffordshire means you can base yourself here to explore many more exciting places and enjoy more activities, such as Stafford, Cannock Chase AONB, Market Drayton, Alton Towers theme park, and the plethora of things to do in Stoke.

Read more:

• 

  11 Best Restaurants in Leek, Staffordshire

• 

  13 Best Mazes in the West Midlands for an Amazeing Family Day Out Near Me

• 

  Free Things to Do in the West Midlands, UK