Ferrière-La-Petite: Pottery Heritage, Walking and Cycling

Ferrière-La-Petite particularly appeals to travelers interested in the history of ceramics who would like to complement their stay with outdoor activities. The Musée La Cour des Potiers, the Circuit du Grès Salé, cycling and fishing each offer a different focus. When planning your trip, you can decide whether to focus on the pottery heritage or also set aside time for trails and other activities.

Pottery history and architectural heritage

The Musée La Cour des Potiers is housed in the former Lambert pottery. A 30 m³ bottle kiln with a reversed-flame system has been preserved there; the kiln is listed as a historic monument. This offers a tangible example of the area’s architectural and industrial heritage. Check access to the museum before you travel.

The collection features blue stoneware from the 18th century, brown stoneware and fine faience from the 19th century. The salt-glazed stoneware technique was introduced in Ferrière-La-Petite by Gilles Gibon in 1718. This date provides a historical reference point for the ceramic types classified by century: alongside a specific technical development, there are pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries. This gives culturally minded travelers a sense of the chronology without conflating the different materials and periods.

The church of Saint-Médard is another architectural and artistic landmark in the town; its altar is made of white marble. Another historic building is the former Château Gossuin, which now houses the town hall of Ferrière-La-Petite. Together, these highlight different aspects of the architectural heritage: pottery, a marble altar and the present-day municipal use of a former château.

Trails and outdoor activities

The Circuit du Grès Salé is a family-friendly trail for discovering the architectural heritage of Ferrière-La-Petite. It starts at the town hall car park, 6 Rue de la Mairie. The current town hall is located in the former Château Gossuin, so the starting point is connected with a building that has had both a former and a present-day function. Check trail conditions and possible detours before setting out, as these may change.

Cyclists also have different options: the Sentier Émeraude is designated as the Voie verte de l’Avesnois in Ferrière-La-Petite. Cycling on the Véloroute is another local activity. These two references distinguish between a named route and an activity associated with the Véloroute. If you would like to divide your time between pottery history and cycling, these themes can help guide your plans; check trail conditions before setting out.

Fishing at the Étangs de Garenne is another activity in Ferrière-La-Petite. This provides an additional way to shape your stay alongside the cultural and architectural attractions. Grès Bleu beer is sold at the Musée de la Poterie. If you would like to make a special trip for it, check current availability before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Naves, Bousies, Bouvines, Le Favril, Mons-En-Pévèle, Genech, Villers-au-Tertre, Feignies.

Return to the regional travel overview: Nord.