From Saturday 24 October, the museum’s Local History, Archaeology and Staffordshire Hoard: Treasure of Mercia galleries will welcome visitors again. Two new displays will also be showcased: Staffordshire Folklore: Stories, Beliefs and Legends from the Landscape, exploring myths and traditions across the county, and What’s In Store?, offering a rare glimpse into objects not normally on public display.
A new learning space will also open, designed for curriculum-linked workshops, family events, and holiday programmes, featuring artwork from local schools and community groups. While the original Staffordshire Hoard objects remain off display due to redevelopment, visitors can still explore Anglo-Saxon Staffordshire through replica treasures, an unfolded recreation of the folded cross, Anglo-Saxon weaponry, and other archaeological finds. An immersive mead hall will allow visitors to hear stories of Anglo-Saxon daily life.
A programme of events is scheduled throughout October half term. On Saturday 24 October, folklorist Eli Lewis-Lycett will explore local legends from 2pm–3pm. From Wednesday 28 to Friday 30 October, children aged seven and above can join a drop-in workshop to 'Create Your Own Clay Dragon' (£3.60 per person, 10.30am–3pm). On Friday 30 October, 'Dragon’s Realm Live!' offers an interactive experience with a life-sized walking dragon and storytelling from 11am–3pm. The museum will also celebrate Diwali on Saturday 31 October with traditional music, dance, and crafts from 11am–5.30pm.
Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for finance, anti-poverty and corporate services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see another phase of The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery’s re-opening completed ahead of half term. Visitors will be able to explore more of the museum’s collections, alongside new displays and objects that are not normally on public view. With more galleries open, a new learning space and a packed programme of activities taking place throughout the break, there’s plenty for families – and everyone - to enjoy.”
This latest phase is part of the museum’s ongoing transformation, which has already seen the reopening of the Spitfire Gallery, Forum Theatre, and Violet’s Café. Representatives from Arts Council England recently praised the progress of the £5 million redevelopment, funded by the Cultural Development Fund from Arts Council England and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and delivered by Seddon. Access to the museum will be via the café entrance by the Spitfire Gallery.
