National Forest Walking Festival Base in Burton upon Trent

Experience the National Forest Walking Festival from Burton upon Trent

Each spring, ramblers, nature enthusiasts, and curious wanderers gather across the Midlands for the annual National Forest Walking Festival. Spanning 200 square miles across Staffordshire, Derbyshire, and Leicestershire, The National Forest is one of the United Kingdom's most ambitious environmental initiatives, transforming former industrial landscapes and agricultural expanses into thriving woodlands, biodiverse wetlands, and vibrant public trails.

Burton upon Trent holds a proud position as the western gateway to The National Forest. Flanked by the River Trent and steeped in historic brewing heritage, the town provides an exceptional springboard for discovering the festival's varied programme. Whether you are seeking a gentle heritage amble alongside canal waterways or a demanding long-distance trek through newly planted saplings and ancient oak stands, Burton upon Trent places you right at the threshold of the action.

Walks and Highlights to Explore Around Burton

The festival typically presents a wide spectrum of guided and self-guided routes tailored to various fitness levels and interests. When basing yourself in Burton upon Trent, several iconic trails and scenic pockets are within immediate reach:

• The Washlands and River Trent: Just moments from the town centre, the Burton Washlands offer expansive floodplain paths teeming with birdlife. Cross the iconic Ferry Bridge, wander into the manicured floral displays of Stapenhill Gardens, and continue along river paths that connect into the wider National Forest network.
• Branston Water Park: Situated just south of town, this premier local nature reserve features a large body of open water created from an old gravel pit, now ringed by reedbeds, woodland trails, and peaceful wildlife viewing spots. It is a frequent feature on festival itineraries for birdwatchers and casual strollers.
• The Trent & Mersey Canal Towpaths: Follow the historic towpaths northward toward Willington or southward toward Alrewas. Flat and easy underfoot, the canal corridors showcase classic narrowboats, lock systems, and tranquil waterside scenery.
• Rosliston Forestry Centre: Located only a short drive from Burton, Rosliston serves as a vibrant hub for forest activities. Its network of woodland paths, hidden sculptures, and meadow circuits offers fantastic terrain for families and experienced hikers alike.
• Jackson's Bank and Ancient Woodlands: For those seeking older canopies, the mature woods near Hoar Cross and Dunstall contrast beautifully with younger forest plantings, offering undulating paths through shady glades and rural countryside.

Fuelling Your Adventure in Burton upon Trent

A full day on the trails calls for hearty sustenance. While Three Queens Hotel focuses entirely on providing peaceful, comfortable accommodation, our location on Bridge Street puts you within a 5-minute walk of Burton's bustling town centre. Before heading out, you can pick up fresh pastries, artisanal sandwiches, or a morning coffee from independent town centre bakeries and cafes.

After completing your trail, wander into town to sample Burton's renowned brewing heritage. Burton is home to some of the country's most historic traditional pubs and taprooms, alongside a wide range of independent restaurants, pizzerias, and bistros serving evening meals to satisfy any hiker's appetite.

Your Comfortable Base: Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

Returning from a day of muddy footpaths and fresh forest air, you need a restful, hassle-free environment where you can unwind. Three Queens Hotel & Lodge, situated at 1 Bridge Street, Burton upon Trent DE14 1SY, is purposefully equipped to support your walking holiday.

Getting to your chosen trail each morning could not be easier thanks to our free on-site parking. Many festival walks depart from different rural trailheads throughout Staffordshire and Derbyshire; having your vehicle parked right outside allows you to head off each morning without hunting for town centre parking bays. For guests travelling by public transport, the hotel is also conveniently positioned just one mile from Burton train station and sits directly along the major A38 corridor.

Inside, our 62 bedrooms cater to solo hikers, couples, and groups of friends. We offer an extensive selection of comfortable rooms to suit your preferences, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, alongside our spacious Mews Apartment and classic four-poster Suite. Every room features:

• A private en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, perfect for a refreshing hot shower after miles on the trail
• In-room tea and coffee making facilities, allowing you to prepare a warm brew as soon as you wake up or kick off your boots
• A flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio for your evening entertainment
• Free WiFi to help you download festival maps, check trail weather, or plan the next day's route
• A hair dryer and direct dial telephone
• Daily housekeeping to keep your space fresh and welcoming

Hikers will also appreciate our 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service, making it easy to refresh trail clothing during multi-day excursions. Our reception desk is open from 8:00 am until 10:00 pm to assist with your arrival and local directions, supported by a night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am to ensure a secure, quiet night's sleep throughout your stay.

Tips for Walking Festival Visitors

To get the most out of your National Forest adventure, keep these simple guidelines in mind:

• Book Guided Walks Early: Popular festival events, especially specialist photography or wildlife tracking walks, often require advance registration and can fill up quickly.
• Pack Proper Footwear: While many canal and town trails are surfaced, woodland paths across the National Forest can be muddy after rainfall. Sturdy walking boots are recommended.
• Layer Up: Spring weather in Staffordshire can change rapidly; carry lightweight waterproofs and windbreakers in your daypack.
• Reserve Your Accommodation: The festival draws visitors from across the country. Secure your dates early to guarantee your preferred room type.

Whether you are taking on high-mileage routes across the forest ridgeways or simply soaking in the beauty of the Trent riverbanks, Burton upon Trent offers the ideal setting. Book your room directly with Three Queens Hotel today and look forward to an invigorating walking break in the heart of England.

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