Alas, there were several suicides at the locations, so hanging around by the railway there does create an interest! CCTV cameras have been installed and the whole area is monitored. The good news, it has reduced the suicide rate, the bad news it is difficult to "spot" without attracting attention!But the canal between Wedgwood and Barlaston is pleasant enough and you can see the trains. You can "spot" from the level crossings at Wedgwood and Barlaston, but not ideal. Other than being at these locations, they offer nothing over Stafford, indeed I'd say Stafford is better!
By all means have a drive round and view the locations, but then pop to Stafford to "Spot" you can park for free (check duration!) at the nearby Tesco. The station car park at Wedgwood is now blocked off and unused. The car park at Barlaston can be used, but has a less good view of the trains-by which I mean no view of the trains-But there is the "Plume Of Feathers" pub/diner. Owned by local boy Neil Morrisey, our local celebrity! For a spot of lunch.
Everything passing Wedwood/Barlaston passes Stafford anyway, plus the Crewe trains serve Stafford too, the only things missing are the SOT-EUS Virgin services.
Remember, with the new "bypass" SOT trains no longer pass Norton Bridge "station".
The other option is Stone. Platforms are accessible there, you wont, of course, see the Crewe (well the Crewe-Euston LNR trains you will, but you know what I mean) trains, but you will see the SOT-EUS and Wedwood/Barlaston trains, and not an unpleasant location. there is parking at Stone station too, but a little walk from the town centre is the only downside.