Trent Vale Roman Pottery Kiln

Many people do not realise that the earliest known pottery kiln in Stoke-on-Trent was set up by the Romans. A potter's kiln and workshop dating from the middle of the 1st century AD. at Trent Vale was discovered and excavated in the late 1950s.

 
Pottery found in Trent Vale Roman potter's kiln

A number of cooking pots were found still inside the kiln where they had been left when the site was abandoned. The pots had been made from the local clay and were covered on the outside with gravel or grit. Lids that fitted into the pots were also found inside the kiln.

Pottery found near the kiln included lamp-holders, platters, bowls, flagons and mortaria, all of which had been made in the kiln. Samian ware from Southern Gaul (France) and gaming counters were also unearthed which must have been used by the pottery workers.