Alton Towers Day Trip: Guide from Burton upon Trent

Experience the Thrills of Alton Towers from Burton upon Trent

Alton Towers Resort stands as the UK’s most famous theme park, boasting world-class rollercoasters, immersive dark rides, and vibrant family entertainment. Situated in the picturesque Staffordshire Moorlands, it welcomes thrill-seekers from across the globe every season. If you are planning an unforgettable trip to experience legendary coasters like Nemesis Reborn, The Smiler, and Wicker Man, choosing the right base can make all the difference to your adventure.

Burton upon Trent offers an ideal location for an Alton Towers getaway. Nestled along the A38 corridor, our historic brewing town combines straightforward travel connections with excellent local amenities. By staying at Three Queens Hotel on Bridge Street, you are just a 45-minute drive from the park gates, allowing you to bypass expensive on-resort accommodation while enjoying a relaxing, well-appointed place to recharge after a day of twists, drops, and loops.

Getting to Alton Towers from Three Queens Hotel

One of the main advantages of basing your trip in Burton upon Trent is the convenience of the journey. Three Queens Hotel provides free on-site parking for all our guests, ensuring you can securely park your vehicle upon arrival without worrying about extra daily parking fees or searching for town-centre spaces.

When morning arrives, driving to Alton Towers is straightforward and takes roughly 40 to 45 minutes, depending on morning traffic:

• The Scenic Route via Uttoxeter: Head west out of Burton along the B5017 through Needwood and Marchington toward Uttoxeter, before picking up the B5030 north toward Rocester and Alton. This route offers a picturesque drive through the Staffordshire countryside.
• The Major Road Route: Alternatively, head onto the A38 and connect with the A50 westbound toward Uttoxeter, then follow the brown tourist signs directly to the Alton Towers entrance.

Leaving early is always recommended to ensure you arrive before the turnstiles open at 10:00 am, giving you a head start on the most popular rides before the queues build up.

Unmissable Attractions at the Resort

Alton Towers covers hundreds of acres of historic grounds, gardens, and modern ride plazas, meaning there is something to satisfy guests of all ages. To make the most of your day, it helps to prioritise your must-visit zones.

For dedicated adrenaline junkies, the 'Secret Weapon' coasters are essential. Challenge your senses on The Smiler, holding the world record for 14 inversions, or face the sheer 180-foot vertical drop of Oblivion. Ride enthusiasts can marvel at the speed and track work of Wicker Man, a thrilling wooden coaster surrounded by genuine fire effects, or experience the high-g excitement of the newly overhauled Nemesis Reborn in Forbidden Valley.

Families travelling with younger adventurers will find plenty of magic across the park. CBeebies Land brings beloved characters to life with rides such as the Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop and the Postman Pat Parcel Post. Beyond the rides, take time to explore Sharkbait Reef by SEA LIFE, wander the historic Towers ruins, or stroll the quiet pathways of the listed valley gardens when you need a moment of tranquility.

Fuel Up in Burton upon Trent Before and After the Park

A full day of walking through theme park plazas and queuing for major rides works up a serious appetite. While the resort offers plenty of fast-food kiosks, many visitors prefer to enjoy quality dining away from the theme park crowds.

Three Queens Hotel is positioned just a 5-minute walk from the bustling heart of Burton upon Trent town centre. While the hotel does not provide food, drink, or dining facilities, our central location places you right on the doorstep of the town's vibrant culinary scene. Head into town first thing in the morning to grab a coffee and a hearty morning meal at one of Burton’s independent high street cafes or bakeries before hitting the road.

In the evening, after a thrilling day on the coasters, you can return to Burton and explore a wide variety of dining spots within easy walking distance. Burton upon Trent is famed for its brewing heritage, so you will find an array of classic British pubs, modern gastropubs, Italian trattorias, and international restaurants serving everything from artisan burgers to authentic curries. Relax over a leisurely dinner in town before taking the short stroll back to your room.

Relax and Recharge at Three Queens Hotel

After walking thousands of steps around the park, having a peaceful and comfortable haven to return to is essential. Three Queens Hotel offers 62 comfortable rooms tailored to solo travellers, couples, groups, and families.

You can explore our diverse selection on our rooms page. We offer Single, Standard Double, and Executive Double rooms, as well as Standard Twin and Executive Twin choices. If you are travelling as a family or with a group of friends visiting the theme park, our spacious Family and Quadruple rooms ensure everyone can stay together comfortably. For an extended break, we also feature a self-contained Mews Apartment, as well as a charming four-poster Suite.

Every bedroom at Three Queens Hotel is en-suite with a private bathroom, stocked with complimentary toiletries and equipped with a hair dryer so you can freshen up after a long day outside. Put your feet up and catch up on the news or evening entertainment with a flat-screen TV featuring Freeview and radio, stay connected with our free WiFi, or brew a soothing hot drink using the in-room tea and coffee making facilities. Daily housekeeping maintains your space, and our 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service is on hand if your outdoor gear needs attention.

For your convenience and peace of mind, our reception desk is open daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a night porter on duty from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am. Whether you are arriving late from the park or heading out early to beat the traffic, our team is available around the clock to assist you.

Top Tips for Your Alton Towers Day Trip

• Pre-Book Tickets Online: Purchasing admission in advance through the official theme park website usually provides substantial savings compared to buying at the gate.
• Download the Alton Towers App: The mobile app displays live queue times, an interactive park map, and ride opening schedules, helping you navigate between zones efficiently.
• Pack for All Weathers: Staffordshire weather can change rapidly. Bring lightweight waterproofs or ponchos, especially for water rides like the Congo River Rapids.
• Take Advantage of Free Parking: Leave your vehicle securely parked at Three Queens Hotel the night before your excursion, so you can make a prompt morning getaway.

Ready to plan your Staffordshire adventure? Secure the best rates for your trip by visiting our booking page today. We look forward to welcoming you to Three Queens Hotel in Burton upon Trent!

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