Summary

Sharpe’s Pottery Museum is a fascinating social history museum in the market town of Swadlincote at the heart of the National Forest. The museum, situated in a grade II listed bottle kiln, brings to life the history of the Sharpe’s pottery and the people who worked in this important local industry. The toilets and basins made at Sharpe’s pottery were a significant step in the effort to improve public health across the country and further afield.  

This heritage and landscape of coal mining, clay extraction and industry in South Derbyshire is brought to life and the story is told right up to the 21st century with the journey to a new sustainable landscape led by the creation of the National Forest. The whole family can enjoy discovering this heritage story and no museum outing is complete without a trip to the gift shop and café.  

Highlights

A fascinating place to learn about the journey of place from the heart of Derbyshire’s 19th industrial heritage, to a 21st century sustainable landscape led by the creation of The National Forest. 

Facilities

  • Accessible toilet  
  • Car park 
  • Food and drink 
  • Play area for younger children 
  • Shop 
  • Special events 
  • Toilets 
  • Venue hire 

Advance Visit Information

  • Free entry
  • Open Wed to Sat, 10am-4pm

Discover more

There's always somewhere new to visit in the National Forest, with an array of unique attractions to explore and discover. 

Explore the Heart of the National Forest

There are many places in the Heart of the Forest to connect with history and immerse yourself in the industrial and social heritage.