Best Things to Do in Burton upon Trent | Travel Guide

Nestled on the banks of the River Trent in East Staffordshire, Burton upon Trent is a town steeped in rich history, stunning natural scenery, and world-renowned brewing heritage. Whether you are visiting for a weekend escape, a cultural day out, or a relaxed family break, this vibrant market town has a wealth of attractions waiting to be explored. From historic industrial landmarks and scenic riverside walks to independent shops and traditional town centre pubs, here is your definitive guide to the best things to do in Burton upon Trent.

Discover Burton’s World-Famous Brewing Heritage

No trip to Burton upon Trent is complete without delving into its deep brewing roots. During the nineteenth century, Burton became the undisputed brewing capital of the world, thanks to the unique mineral composition of the local water (a phenomenon that gave rise to the brewing term 'burtonisation'). At its peak, the town produced a significant percentage of all the beer brewed in the United Kingdom.

While the brewing industry has evolved, its legacy remains visible in the striking Victorian architecture, historic maltings, and surviving brewhouses across town. Real ale enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the local beer culture by exploring Burton's famous town centre pubs. Iconic establishments such as The Coopers Tavern—where imperial casks once stood behind the counter—and The Devonshire Arms offer a welcoming glimpse into the town's proud tradition, pouring an incredible selection of heritage ales and contemporary craft beers.

Wander Through Stapenhill Gardens and Along the Trent

If you are looking for tranquil outdoor spaces, Stapenhill Gardens is an absolute must-visit. Located just across the river from the historic town centre, these beautifully manicured gardens were once part of the Stapenhill House estate. Today, they are famous for their vibrant floral bedding displays, woodland trails, and the prominent landmark known as the Stapenhill Swan—a hollow concrete sculpture created in the 1950s that overlooks the River Trent.

A stroll through the gardens connects seamlessly to the Burton Washlands, an expansive riverside wetland and nature reserve that stretches through the heart of the town. Following the riverside footpaths allows you to spot local birdlife, take in soothing water views, and walk across the historic Burton Ferry Bridge, a charming Victorian footbridge connecting Stapenhill with the town centre.

Step Back in Time at Claymills Victorian Pumping Station

Located on the northern edge of Burton upon Trent, Claymills Victorian Pumping Station is one of the finest surviving examples of Victorian municipal engineering in Europe. Built in the late 1880s to handle sewage effluent produced by the town's booming brewing industry, this restored facility features four magnificent rotative beam engines, massive Lancashire boilers, a 24-horsepower steam dynamo, and original workshops.

Claymills hosts regular steaming weekends throughout the year, when volunteers bring the colossal engines to life under full steam. It provides a truly captivating, sensory experience for visitors of all ages, offering a rare look at the sheer scale and ingenuity of Britain's industrial golden age.

Explore Nature at Branston Water Park

Just a short drive south along the A38 corridor lies Branston Water Park, a premier local nature reserve developed on the site of a restored gravel quarry. The park features a large reedbed-fringed lake, easily circumnavigated by flat, well-maintained walking trails that are ideal for a peaceful morning or afternoon stroll.

Branston Water Park is renowned as an important habitat for wetland birds, dragonflies, and varied flora. With a children's play area, peaceful picnic spots, and regular fishing facilities managed by the local angling association, it is a rewarding destination for nature lovers and families alike.

Enjoy Town Centre Shopping and Independent Dining

Burton's bustling town centre combines pedestrianised high streets with popular retail destinations such as Coopers Square and The Octagon shopping centres. Here, high-street brands sit alongside local independent retailers, offering everything from fashion to handmade gifts. For creative arts, The Brewhouse Arts Centre offers a diverse calendar of live theatre, music, comedy, and creative workshops in an intimate riverside venue.

When it comes to dining, Burton upon Trent boasts a diverse culinary scene spread across its town centre streets. While Three Queens Hotel does not feature an on-site restaurant or cafe, our guests love that our Bridge Street location puts them within a comfortable five-minute walk of numerous dining venues. From cosy local cafes serving cooked morning meals to authentic Italian trattorias, Indian restaurants, modern bistros, and traditional British gastropubs, you will find delicious options to suit every palate right on our doorstep.

Convenient Day Trips Across Staffordshire and Derbyshire

Thanks to Burton's prime location on the A38 corridor, the town serves as an exceptional starting point for regional day trips. Within a brief drive, you can reach:

• The National Memorial Arboretum: Situated nearby in Alrewas, this 150-acre national site of remembrance features almost 400 poignant memorials set among 25,000 growing trees.
• The National Forest: Spanning across three counties, the National Forest offers hundreds of miles of cycling routes, nature trails, and attractions such as Rosliston Forestry Centre and Hicks Lodge.
• Calke Abbey: Located near Ticknall, this National Trust property is famously preserved as an 'unstately home', portraying the dramatic decline of a sprawling country estate.
• St. George's Park: The world-class training centre of the England national football teams, situated amid rolling Staffordshire countryside near Needwood.

Your Perfect Base: Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

After a full day spent discovering the attractions of Burton upon Trent and the surrounding countryside, return to the quiet comfort of Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Positioned at 1 Bridge Street, our hotel combines outstanding town-centre convenience with hassle-free access, sitting just one mile from Burton railway station and moments from the main A38 route.

We take pride in offering simple, stress-free accommodation for business and leisure travellers alike. Guests can take advantage of our free on-site parking and free high-speed WiFi throughout their stay. Our dedicated front desk team is on hand from 8:00am until 10:00pm, supported by an overnight night porter between 10:00pm and 8:00am to provide continuous peace of mind.

With 62 rooms available across the main building and our lodge, you can select the accommodation that suits your trip best. Choose from Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, or upgrade to our self-contained Mews Apartment or characterful four-poster Suite. Every room is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, flat-screen television with Freeview and radio channels, in-room tea and coffee making facilities, a hair dryer, complimentary toiletries, a direct dial phone, and daily housekeeping service. A 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service is also available upon request.

Ready to plan your Staffordshire getaway? Explore our full range of rooms and suites, and book your stay online with Three Queens Hotel today for our best rates.

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