Summer in the City Centre - Rain or Shine!

Whether the skies are filled with sun rays or a couple grey clouds, you best believe we’re making the most of summer 2023 in Stoke-on-Trent City Centre. Luckily, rain or shine, there’s plenty to get involved in whether you’re visiting with friends, family or even your own solo shopping trip. We’ve broken down a few handy categories for enjoying summer your way…

Sun’s Out - Top up that Tan

Picture this: The sky is brighter than the iconic blue clock and the temperature’s mid-twenties, you’re after a place to chill on your lunch break or meet friends before heading off into the City Centre. The Peace Garden on Marsh Street features two stunning memorials in celebration of local DJ Jackson Cummings who sadly passed in 2019. The garden features benches, potbank shaped planters and a relaxing place to take a seat.

If you’re looking to wine and dine al fresco, then Piccadilly is the place to be. Chock full of indie bars, restaurants and cafes, you can find anything from dumplings to daiquiris, loaded fries to local ales. Many of Piccadilly’s proprietors have outdoor seating, and trust us, the vibes are immaculate on this stretch on a summer’s evening. Remember you can check out all the local places to eat and drink here. 



Of course, we’ve got to remind you that it’s our Better World Festival coming up on 29 - 30 July across the City Centre. Featuring music genres from across the world, wonderful acoustic talent, kids play activities and environmental focus through guest speakers and mindfulness workshops, there’s something for everyone across this weekend-long celebration of Better World Festival. It’s totally FREE to visit too, so be sure to drop in for a boogie or a spot of yoga!

Summer has also arrived at Smithfield, from activities to community-run events. Throughout July and August, the brilliant Bee Active team will be running weekly kids’ outdoor sessions. On 12-13 August, Smithfield will also be welcoming award-winning contemporary circus company Upswing, to host an impressive family fun weekend. This will feature workshops for kids ages 7+, deck chairs and more. All Smithfield events can be found here.


Take Cover - For Drizzly Days

It’s Great Britain, so sadly we can’t always guarantee sunny skies. For those overcast days that lack in rays, there’s still plenty to explore in the City Centre. We’re host to some brilliant indoor venues. Why not have a game of anything but boring at Long Rest or Geek Retreat, or digital VR play at the awesome Game Grid? If you fancy letting off some steam, Rage Indoor Sports features axe throwing, airsoft and you guessed it, its very own rage room; make an afternoon of it by sticking around for a pizza and refreshment.

If you’re after a bit of Potteries education, pop by the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery or the Dudson Museum. Both of which often host special events or activities throughout the summer.


Awesome Evenings - Nights Out

Our City Centre is lucky to have three fantastic theatres; The Regent Theatre, Victoria Hall and Mitchell Arts Centre. Each offer diverse programmes of shows, to popular touring shows featuring such as Six The Musical, Heathers and Dirty Dancing, as well as top comedians Sarah Millican, Frankie Boyle and Tom Allen. Mitchell Arts Centre also has a diverse range of screenings, activities and local shows to give a great opportunity to support local (which is always a big thumbs up from us!)

Live music more your thing? Then not to worry as local clubs and bars offer a great range of touring bands, club nights and more. For awesome shows from bands and artists (both local and touring) check out The Sugarmill, The Underground and Captain’s Bar. For your big night out and a rave to boot, head over to Fiction and Basement. Keep your eyes peeled at local LGBT+ friendly venues The Werkroom, Pink and Gossip for drag shows and epic party nights out. 

Shop To It - Retail That Has it All

Nowt like a bit of retail therapy, eh! In Stoke-on-Trent City Centre, we’re delighted to feature big name brands that you love and awesome indies too. Pop over to the Potteries Centre for shopping, dining, cinema and activities; this summer, they have a jam-packed calendar including their under the sea adventure maze and beach zone featuring funfair games and stalls.

If you’re looking to shop sustainably, we also have several preloved clothing stores in the Potteries Centre and beyond; perfect for a thrifty find! Speaking of great finds, be sure to head down to Rubber Soul Records and Music Mania for a hidden gem record.

There you have it, there’s our whistle stop tour of the City Centre this summer. With more always on the way, the best place to stay up to date is our social channels and website. So rain, shine or this weird in between weather we’re having right now, we hope you have a great summer in Stoke-on-Trent City Centre!