Barton Marina Day Out from Burton upon Trent Guide

Nestled in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside just a short drive down the A38 from Burton upon Trent, Barton Marina is one of the region's favourite destinations for a relaxed day out. Whether you want to browse independent boutiques, stroll along peaceful woodland trails and canal towpaths, or enjoy lunch watching the narrowboats cruise by, a trip to Barton Marina offers something for everyone.

If you are staying in the area, the marina is easily accessible from Burton upon Trent, making it an ideal excursion during a weekend getaway, business trip, or family holiday. Here is our complete guide to planning a memorable day out at Barton Marina.

Discovering Barton Marina

Barton Marina opened in 2001 and has grown into a bustling hub for canal boaters and day visitors alike. Built around a 300-berth marina on the Trent and Mersey Canal, the site blends traditional canal heritage with modern leisure facilities. The timber-clad buildings and brick walkways evoke the character of a rural waterside village, offering a tranquil escape from everyday hustle and bustle.

Surrounding the marina basin are several large lakes, reclaimed from former gravel workings, which have been transformed into rich wildlife habitats with well-maintained paths for walking and nature spotting.

Things to See and Do at Barton Marina

You can easily spend several hours exploring all that the marina has to offer. Here are some of the highlights to include in your visit:

1. Boutique Shopping and Artisan Crafts

Unlike standard high street shopping, Barton Marina is home to a curated selection of independent shops and boutiques. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and browse:

• Fashion and Accessories: Discover independent clothing boutiques offering country wear, contemporary fashion, jewellery, and stylish accessories.
• Gifts and Homeware: Explore quirky gift shops filled with handcrafted goods, home decor, candles, and artisan souvenirs.
• Art Galleries: Admire original artwork, limited edition prints, and sculptures created by regional and national artists.
• Local Produce: Pick up regional food treats, specialist cheeses, craft ales, and baked goods from specialty food retailers.

2. Waterside Walks and Nature Trails

For outdoor enthusiasts, Barton Marina provides direct access to scenic walking routes. A circular trail winds around the surrounding lakes and woodland, offering peaceful views across the water where you can spot swans, herons, kingfishers, and ducks. The paths are generally flat and well-marked, making them ideal for an easy afternoon stroll.

You can also connect directly to the Trent and Mersey Canal towpath, which allows you to walk further into the Staffordshire countryside towards the village of Barton-under-Needwood or north towards Branston Water Park.

3. Waterfront Dining

When you are ready for refreshments, Barton Marina features several independent cafes, eateries, and a popular waterfront pub. You can enjoy everything from specialty coffees and light lunches to traditional pub classics and fine dining, all with scenic views over the bobbing canal boats.

How to Get to Barton Marina from Burton upon Trent

Barton Marina is located just over 5 miles southwest of Burton upon Trent, making the journey fast and convenient:

• By Car: Head south out of Burton on the A38 corridor. Take the exit for Barton-under-Needwood / B5016, and follow the clear signs to Barton Marina. The drive typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Barton Marina offers ample parking on site.
• By Bus: Regular bus services operate between Burton upon Trent town centre and Barton-under-Needwood along the A38 route, from where the marina is a short walk.
• By Bicycle: Keen cyclists can follow local cycle paths and canal towpaths for a scenic bike ride between Burton and the marina.

Evening Dining Back in Burton upon Trent

After a leisurely afternoon at the marina, return to Burton upon Trent to explore the town's vibrant dining scene. As the historic brewing capital of the world, Burton is famous for its historic pubs, microbreweries, and a diverse range of restaurants. Whether you are in the mood for traditional British pub meals, authentic Indian curries, Italian classics, or modern European cuisine, you will find plenty of excellent independent dining options just a short five-minute walk into the town centre from your accommodation.

Your Base in Burton: Three Queens Hotel

After a full day of exploring Staffordshire's waterways and countryside, return to the comfort of the Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Conveniently situated on Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent, our 62-room hotel offers the perfect base for your trip, positioned on the A38 corridor and just one mile from Burton railway station.

Guests at Three Queens Hotel benefit from a range of convenient amenities, including:

• Free On-Site Parking: Leave your car securely parked while you explore the town or take a quick day trip to Barton Marina.
• 24-Hour Front Desk Support: Our reception is staffed from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, with a night porter on duty from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am to assist you at any hour.
• Complimentary High-Speed WiFi: Stay connected throughout your visit.
• Daily Housekeeping: Keeping your space fresh and comfortable throughout your stay.
• 24-Hour Laundry and Dry Cleaning: Convenient services for longer stays or business travellers.

We offer a versatile selection of accommodation to suit every traveller, from solo visitors and couples to families and groups. View our full range of rooms and apartments, which includes Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple, Mews Apartments, and a four-poster Suite.

Every room is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio channels, tea and coffee making facilities, a hair dryer, and a direct dial phone.

Plan Your Staffordshire Getaway

Whether you are planning a relaxing weekend exploring Barton Marina, walking the canal networks, or discovering Burton's historic heritage, Three Queens Hotel provides a welcoming, well-located base for your travels. Book your stay directly today to secure the best rates for your next visit to Burton upon Trent.

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