A Visitor Guide to Stapenhill Gardens Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent is widely known across the globe for its brewing heritage, but the town also boasts some of the finest green spaces in Staffordshire. Chief among them is Stapenhill Gardens, a picturesque parkland set along the eastern banks of the River Trent. Whether you are visiting the town for business, exploring the National Forest, or taking a relaxing weekend getaway, a stroll through Stapenhill Gardens offers beautiful scenery, rich local history, and panoramic views across the water.

Best of all for visitors staying at Three Queens Hotel, Stapenhill Gardens is located just a short walk across the river from our front doors on Bridge Street. Here is everything you need to know about visiting this beloved local landmark.

A Riverside Gem: The History of Stapenhill Gardens

The land occupied by Stapenhill Gardens was once part of the private grounds belonging to Stapenhill House, a stately manor home with deep roots in local history. In 1933, the estate was generously gifted to the Corporation of Burton upon Trent by the Goodger family, with the wish that the grounds be turned into a public pleasure garden for the enjoyment of all.

While the manor house itself was demolished, the landscape was transformed into terraced lawns, winding pathways, and tranquil borders that cascade gently toward the water's edge. Today, Stapenhill Gardens forms an integral part of the Trent Washlands, connecting nature lovers with miles of scenic walking and cycling routes through the heart of the town.

The Famous Stapenhill Swan

You cannot talk about Stapenhill Gardens without mentioning its most famous resident: the giant concrete swan. Perched on a high plinth overlooking the lawns and the river, this monumental sculpture has been delighting visitors since it was constructed in 1953 by local council gardener Frederick Baxter.

Built using brick, wire, and concrete over an old tree stump, the swan was created as an artistic tribute to the mute swans that gather in large numbers along this stretch of the River Trent. Over the decades, it has become an affectionate symbol of Burton upon Trent, serving as a favourite backdrop for family photographs, wedding portraits, and curious travellers. Children and adults alike love pausing here to admire the craftsmanship and take in the elevated views of the river below.

Stroll Along the River Trent and the Ferry Bridge

One of the greatest pleasures of visiting Stapenhill Gardens is taking a walk along the riverbanks. Wide, paved footpaths meander beside the water, offering a peaceful vantage point to watch rowers, kayakers, and local wildlife, including herons, kingfishers, and geese.

As you stroll through the gardens, you will come across the historic Ferry Bridge. Erected in 1889 by the prominent local brewer and philanthropist Lord Burton (Michael Arthur Bass), this elegant iron pedestrian suspension bridge was built to replace the old penny ferry that once ferried workers across the Trent. Crossing the Ferry Bridge allows you to loop effortlessly between Stapenhill Gardens and the open meadows of the Washlands, creating a gentle circular walking route that is ideal for a morning stretch or an evening constitutional.

Seasonal Blooms and Peaceful Walks

Stapenhill Gardens is meticulously maintained throughout the year, making it an attractive destination in every season. In the spring and summer months, the ornamental flowerbeds burst with vivid bedding plants, fragrant roses, and perennial borders. A walk through the garden's woodland glade provides shaded relief on warm summer afternoons, while the peace garden offers quiet benches tucked away from the main river paths.

Autumn brings golden foliage along the riverside canopy, casting stunning reflections across the River Trent, while crisp winter mornings give the gardens a quiet, frosty charm. Whether you want to sit on a park bench with a good book, sketch the riverside architecture, or enjoy a picnic on the open lawns, the park offers a welcome breath of fresh air.

Where to Eat and Drink Nearby in Burton upon Trent

After an afternoon exploring Stapenhill Gardens and the riverside paths, you will find an excellent selection of places to eat and drink in the immediate area. Burton upon Trent has an energetic dining scene, with traditional pub fare, cosy cafes, and international cuisine all available within minutes of the park.

You can cross back over the river into the town centre to find welcoming local pubs serving Staffordshire ales, independent coffee houses offering freshly baked cakes, and a wide array of dinner spots serving Indian, Italian, and contemporary British cuisine. Because the town centre is only a five-minute walk from Bridge Street, you will have plenty of options right at your fingertips whenever you feel hungry.

Relax at Three Queens Hotel on Bridge Street

When you are ready to rest your feet and recharge, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge provides comfortable, convenient accommodation in the heart of town. Situated at 1 Bridge Street (DE14 1SY), our hotel is directly on the A38 corridor, a five-minute walk from the town centre, and just one mile from Burton railway station.

We offer 62 well-appointed rooms to suit every type of visit, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, alongside our spacious Mews Apartment and a romantic four-poster Suite. Every room is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio channels, tea and coffee making facilities, a hair dryer, complimentary toiletries, and a direct dial phone.

To make your stay as smooth as possible, we provide free on-site parking for our guests, as well as complimentary high-speed WiFi throughout the property. Our reception desk is open daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, with a night porter on duty from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am to assist with late arrivals or early departures. Guests can also take advantage of our daily housekeeping and convenient 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service.

Plan Your Visit to Stapenhill Gardens

Stapenhill Gardens is open to the public year-round with free admission, making it one of the easiest and most enjoyable days out in Burton upon Trent. Whether you are visiting to see the iconic swan, stroll across the Ferry Bridge, or simply take in the riverside scenery, it is a must-visit highlight of any stay in Staffordshire.

Are you ready to plan your trip? View our full selection of comfortable guest rooms on our rooms page, or head straight to our booking system to book your stay online today. You can also reach our team directly by phone at 01283 523800 or via email at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk. We look forward to welcoming you to Burton upon Trent!

Planning a visit? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge.