A visit to The World of Wedgwood

17 March 2026

We were able to enjoy an inspiring day out by coach without travelling too far afield by visiting The World of Wedgwood near Stoke on Trent. Twenty three members and friends met at Buxton Market Place to enjoy the sunny drive across the Staffordshire moorlands before disembarking at Wedgwood to find coffee in one of the several refreshment areas on site before taking an easy and level access tour of the museum.

The combination of science, industry, craftsmanship and beauty create a museum of outstanding quality and interest outlining the history of Wedgwood china for over 250 years. The displays include examples from every era including many experimental pieces Josiah Wedgwood made in his quest for the perfect clay, glaze and firing temperature, all available for examination at close quarters by visitors to this free museum.

Josiah’s portrait hangs beside that of his wife in one of the galleries reached through others lined with well lit glass cases filled with wonderful examples of the extraordinary work which has come out of the factory since the 18th century.

The V&A Wedgwood Collection of the museum takes the visitor to other areas of design associated with the factory as does the Wedgwood copy of The Portland Vase.

The current factory site has been working since 1938 and was redeveloped about 20 years ago. It is thoroughly modern, fuelled by electricity and has only 26 permanent staff. Only three of the staff actually know the formulas for the clay and firing processes. Unfortunately, our tour of the factory was cancelled at short notice, but Sylvia went this week and found it a fascinating insight to the wonderful craftsmanship that goes into each individual piece. All are still handmade and decorated, which perhaps explains the prices!

Examples of contemporary tableware and decorative items which may be in our own homes today are shown as are pieces of the vast sets of tableware commissioned by Royal families throughout the world to decorate their palaces.

Jean Dugmore