Planning a Barton Marina Day Out from Burton upon Trent

Discovering Barton Marina: A Waterfront Escape

Nestled just five miles southwest of Burton upon Trent, Barton Marina is one of Staffordshire’s premier waterside destinations. Originally developed from gravel pits excavated during the late twentieth century, this extensive lake and canal complex has blossomed into a thriving community hub. Today, Barton Marina is home to over 300 narrowboat berths on the Trent & Mersey Canal, surrounded by native woodland, tranquil footpaths, and attractive brick-built promenades. Whether you are seeking a brisk afternoon walk, a browse through boutique craft shops, or a relaxing meal beside the water, a day trip to Barton Marina offers something for all ages.

Boutique Shopping and Artisan Delights

Unlike typical shopping centres, Barton Marina prides itself on independent, specialist retailers. Stroll along the timber boardwalks and discover unique stores offering everything from British fashion and designer jewellery to homeware, artisan gifts, and fine art. The on-site contemporary art gallery showcases regional talent, offering paintings, sculptures, and limited-edition prints.

Food lovers will also appreciate the marina’s butcher and deli, stocked with locally reared meats, farmhouse cheeses, baked treats, and regional preserves. It is a fantastic spot to pick up bespoke souvenirs or gather quality picnic items before exploring the surrounding countryside paths.

Scenic Walks and Wildlife by the Water

For outdoor enthusiasts, Barton Marina provides direct access to peaceful walking trails through landscaped woodlands and around the perimeter of several picturesque lakes. The area is a haven for local birdlife, where you can spot swans, herons, kingfishers, and various species of waterfowl throughout the year.

If you enjoy longer rambles, the marina connects directly to the Trent & Mersey Canal towpath. Following the towpath north takes you along pleasant, flat routes towards Branston and Burton upon Trent, while heading south leads past peaceful locks towards Alrewas and the historic Fradley Junction. Benches are positioned around the lakes, giving visitors ample opportunities to pause, take in the views, and watch narrowboats glide along the waterway.

Waterside Dining and Village Refreshments

A major draw of Barton Marina is its collection of independent waterside eateries. Visitors can choose from charming cafes serving coffee, afternoon tea, and freshly prepared sandwiches, to welcoming waterfront pubs that boast broad outdoor terraces looking directly over the moored boats. Enjoying lunch or a cooling beverage while boats gently rock in the basin is one of the most relaxing ways to spend an afternoon in Staffordshire.

If you prefer to explore further afield, the nearby village of Barton-under-Needwood features historic Tudor buildings and friendly traditional pubs. After your day trip, you can return to Burton upon Trent, where our hotel is positioned just a convenient five-minute walk from a diverse array of town-centre restaurants, international bistros, and celebrated historic brewing pubs.

Getting to Barton Marina from Three Queens Hotel

Barton Marina is straightforward to reach from Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Thanks to our location directly on the A38 corridor, driving between the two points takes only 10 to 12 minutes. Simply head south on the A38 from Burton and take the exit signposted for Barton-under-Needwood and Walton-on-Trent (B5016), following the brown tourist signs straight to the marina’s dedicated parking area.

For guests travelling by public transport, regular bus services operate along the route from Burton upon Trent town centre to Barton-under-Needwood, followed by a short, scenic walk down to the marina. Cycling is another popular option, allowing you to follow quiet lanes and designated canal routes through the Trent Valley.

Relax at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

After an active day by the water, return to Burton upon Trent to relax at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Conveniently situated on Bridge Street, our hotel features 62 well-appointed bedrooms tailored to every type of traveller. Explore our comfortable rooms, which range from Single and Standard Double rooms for solo adventurers and couples, to spacious Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Executive Double, Family, and Quadruple rooms. We also provide a charming Mews Apartment and a luxurious four-poster Suite for special getaways.

Every room at Three Queens Hotel is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, and a flat-screen television with Freeview and radio channels. Guests can prepare a warm drink using their in-room tea and coffee making facilities and stay connected throughout their stay with our free Wi-Fi.

To ensure your trip is smooth and hassle-free, our property offers free on-site parking right outside, saving you the stress of locating spaces after a day of sightseeing. Our front desk reception is staffed from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a night porter between 10:00 pm and 8:00 am to assist with late arrivals or early departures. With daily housekeeping and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service available, you have everything you need for a restorative stay.

Plan Your Staffordshire Getaway

Whether you are planning a weekend break exploring the Trent Valley or taking a midweek respite in Staffordshire, Barton Marina offers an idyllic blend of retail, nature, and waterside charm. Positioned just one mile from Burton train station and within walking distance of town centre dining, Three Queens Hotel is your ideal starting point.

Ready to plan your trip? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today and make the most of your next day out in Staffordshire.

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