The ninth edition of the British Ceramics Biennial is returning to Stoke-on-Trent from 6 September to 19 October. Spode Works – the post-industrial site of the original Spode factory – will be animated by exhibitions, screenings, talks and events, shining a light on Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heritage and creative spirit.

About Spode Works

Spode Works covers around 10 acres in the centre of Stoke town, Stoke-on-Trent. The site includes multiple Grade II listed buildings – around 11 of them – that showcase classic industrial architecture and the evolution of the pottery works. After the factory shut, the remaining collection and archive were entrusted to the Spode Museum, which is still on site. Currently home to artist studios, restaurants, a hotel and even a theatre, Spode Works is a thriving hub of creativity. It is also home to our very own BCB Studio, which opened in April 2024.

History

Josiah Spode I acquired the site in 1776 on what is now Church Street, Stoke-on-Trent. Spode wares were in production there continuously until 2008. In the 19th Century, it was one of the two largest potteries in Staffordshire, with over 20 bottle ovens and employing around a thousand people.

Learn more about the history of the site on the Spode Museum website.