Longton

02History

Longton, meaning 'long village', has a long-standing history as a market town within the parish of Stoke. It became a significant urban area in the 1960s, experiencing a population boom. The town played a notable role during the 1842 general strike, which was marked by riots linked to the pottery industry and coal mining.

• 1842 General strike and Pottery Riots occurred, impacting local pottery workers.
• 1865 Longton and Lane End incorporated as the Borough of Longton.
• 1910 Federated into the county borough of Stoke-on-Trent.
• 1922 Parish abolished and merged with Stoke-on-Trent.
• 1962 Bennett Precinct shopping area opened, now known as Longton Exchange.

03Industry and Economy

Longton has a deep-rooted connection to the pottery industry, with notable manufacturers such as Paragon China and Aynsley. The Gladstone Pottery Museum showcases this heritage, while Roslyn Works hosts smaller ceramic producers. Additionally, Belstaff, known for waterproof jackets, was founded in Longton in 1924.

• Gladstone Pottery Museum A key site for ceramic heritage and tourism.
• Florence colliery Part of the North Staffordshire Coalfield, closed in the 1990s.
• Bottle ovens Fewer than 50 survive in Stoke-on-Trent, with many located in Longton.
• St Thomas More Catholic Academy One of the secondary schools in Longton.
• Shelley's Laserdome A well-known rave venue in the early 1990s.

Longton is a Staffordshire town known for its pottery heritage and historic market hall, part of Stoke-on-Trent.

04Transport and Education

Longton is served by a railway station on the Crewe–Derby line, which has been operational since 1848. A new bus interchange was established in 2003, enhancing local transport links. The town also has a strong educational presence, having hosted the first Workers' Educational Association classes.

• A50 bypass Opened in 1997, improving traffic flow through Longton.
• R. H. Tawney Taught the first Workers' Educational Association classes starting in 1908.
• Stoke Studio College Another secondary education option in Longton.
• Longton Town Hall Completed in 1844, saved from demolition in 1986.
• Jollees Cabaret Club Popular nightspot in the 1970s.