Stoke-on-Trent, an Introduction

Lauren is a history teacher in Stoke-on-Trent. Growing up in Stoke, Lauren was always fascinated by its industrial past, and after graduating with a degree in Politics & History, she decided to return to the city to teach. She is now a history teacher at a secondary school.

What are your favourite things about Stoke-on-Trent?

The people, the history and the location.

People are very friendly, they will often stop for a conversation. Stoke also has a lot of fascinating history, but it is the history of ordinary people, such as those who worked within the potteries. Finally, it’s in a good location with strong transport links. It’s centrally located in the UK and close to other counties like Shropshire, Cheshire and Derbyshire, so it’s very easy to access the rest of the UK quite quickly!

Can you tell us a bit about the history of the area?

Newcastle-Under-Lyme, which neighbours Stoke-on-Trent, is a very old market town which is even mentioned in the Magna Carta!
Stoke-on-Trent itself is made up for six towns which together have a Latin motto - Vis Unita Fortior - which means, “united strength is stronger”. Stoke-on-Trent was officially titled as a city in 1925.

What will visitors like most about Stoke?

There are a wide variety of things to do and see, from the rolling countryside, urban areas and parks. Each part of Stoke has its own park, this was a way to make sure there was some green space to help the environment during the industrial revolution. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the history of the potteries in the area. We have several world famous potteries, including Wedgwood, Emma Bridgewater, Middleport pottery and the Potteries Museum. Wherever you are in the world, you will often find that the pottery has been made in Stoke.

Alton Towers theme park is also nearby and attracts thousands of visitors to its exciting rides!

I would also suggest trying some local cuisine and recommend pikelets, oatcakes and “lobby” (a stew).

Can you give us any interesting facts that may surprise people?

We have two professional football teams - Stoke City and Port Vale. We have several famous musicians - Slash from Guns & Roses, Robbie Williams, Neil Morrisey and several television stars.

“Duck” is a widely derived term of endearment, it is derived from the word “Duke”, so anyone calls you this, it is a compliment!