My wife is a porcelain fanatic, so we're planning to spend one day and night in Stoke-on-Trent, England. I've read that this is one of the bleakest parts of England, and that the towns that compose the conurbation of Stoke-on-Trent are right out of a Dickens novel. Nevertheless, my wife is determined to see the historic potteries of Royal Doulton and Wedgewood. Any first-hand accounts of Stoke-on-Trent would be greatly appreciated.

See topped thread. I'm frightened to open my mouth

So every town serves a purpose, and Stoke's has always been to make nice pots. <BR> <BR>What I would suggest is that you go to Stoke as part of an itinerary based round the Derbyshire Dales. It's really not far away from Stoke. Don't stay in Stoke if you're looking for a romantic or pastoral view! Try www.theaa.co.uk for a very full list of reviews of all types of accommodation in the UK - along with pictures. I would go for The Old Beams at Waterhouses as a start (17 miles from Stoke) - if it's still there!

Makeney Hall Hotel, Makeney just outside <BR>Belper is a good place to stay. Don't miss Alton Towers ( theme park ) also. <BR>Not much to do in Stoke, give the Water <BR>Gardens a miss.

There's a Royal Worchester Porcelin place in England. Its the best in the country, so I've heard. Near Stratford is a Royal Worchester Porcelin factory where they sell porcelin at discounted prices. They're usually the pieces that dont make the market because they have slight defects (like, one leaf design might be slightly off from the rest), but you cant even tell unless you were a porcelin/antique expert. Sorry I dont know the names of these places, but there should be a number to R.W. Porcelin online, and you could call them to get directions. <BR> <BR>Also try antique shops in Camden Market, Stratford, Coldswolds.etc. English antique shops are awesome!!!

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Is it worth the time to go to Stoke-on-trent to buy porcelin? I love Wedgwood and Royal Doulton.