The Staffordshire Hoard is the largest and most valuable Anglo-Saxon treasure ever found. Now an exciting new exhibition at The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery sets it in its historical context and reveals the story of its discovery and conservation. More than a hundred specially chosen pieces are displayed in all their dazzling glory. On show together for the first time in Britain, these breathtakingly beautiful examples of delicate Saxon metalwork have intrigued archaeologists and forced historians to question what they thought they knew about England in the seventh century. Every expert has a different opinion; what’s yours?

Saturday 21 July 2012 – Sunday 1 September 2013, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery

From coffee mornings to tea breaks and from punch parties to standing a pint in the pub, drinking is most enjoyable when done in company. Our collections include many pieces used for preparing and serving drinks while others show drinking scenes. Some are utilitarian wares, others are special pieces, highly decorated or personalised. This exhibition draws on some of our less well-known pieces to illustrate the sociable aspect of drinking from the 18th-20th centuries.

Saturday 16 March 2013 – Sunday 30 June 2013, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery

Throughout history, all societies have sought ways to address the practical and emotional consequences of death. The study of attitudes towards death can reveal much about life in the past, including religious beliefs, methods of disposing and remembering the dead, and how people came to terms with the loss of loved ones. Our new display includes items not previously shown to the public and examines changing approaches towards death, burial and commemoration from Prehistory to the early 20th century.

Saturday 23 June 2012 – Sunday 1 September 2013, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery

Marking the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Football Association. Using our collection and loans from Stoke City Football Club, these displays celebrate the nation’s favourite game. Visitors will be able to learn more about the social historical context of football in the city and the changing fashion of the game over the years. Exhibits include old programmes and match tickets, posters, signed shirts and silverware. The exhibition also incorporates the dedicated Sir Stanley Matthews exhibition at the museum.

Saturday 23 March 2013 – Sunday 3 November 2013, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery