Visiting Tutbury Castle from Burton upon Trent | Guide

Perched high on a dramatic grassy motte commanding sweeping views over the River Dove and the surrounding countryside, Tutbury Castle stands as one of the most storied historical landmarks in Staffordshire. Whether you are a dedicated history enthusiast, an avid photographer, or simply looking for an engaging day out, an excursion to this ancient fortress is a highlight of any trip to the region. Located only five miles northwest of Burton upon Trent, Tutbury Castle is remarkably easy to reach when you make Three Queens Hotel & Lodge your base.

The Dramatic Royal History of Tutbury Castle

Tutbury Castle has borne witness to almost a thousand years of British history. Originally established as a Norman motte-and-bailey fortification shortly after the Conquest of 1066, the site evolved over centuries into a formidable royal stronghold under the powerful Duchy of Lancaster. Its strategic vantage point overlooking the Dove Valley made it a prized military post and an opulent residence for nobility throughout the Middle Ages.

The castle is perhaps most famous for its association with Mary, Queen of Scots. During her long English captivity under Queen Elizabeth I, the Scottish monarch was imprisoned at Tutbury Castle on four separate occasions between 1569 and 1585. Guarded closely by George Talbot, 6th Earl of Shrewsbury, Mary endured harsh conditions in the damp, fortress environment, which she famously complained about in her correspondence. Today, visitors can walk among the remaining stone ramparts and reflect upon the dramatic royal intrigue that once played out within these historic walls.

During the English Civil War, the castle served as a staunch Royalist garrison supporting King Charles I, who visited on several occasions. Following a protracted siege by Parliamentary forces, the fortress finally surrendered in 1646 and was subsequently slighted to prevent its further military use. The romantic ruins that stand today offer an evocative window into this turbulent past.

Getting to Tutbury Castle from Burton upon Trent

One of the greatest advantages of staying at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge on Bridge Street is our prime location on the A38 corridor, which makes exploring regional heritage effortless. Reaching Tutbury Castle from the hotel takes mere minutes:

• By Car: The drive from Three Queens Hotel takes approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Head northwest out of Burton upon Trent along the A511 (Tutbury Road), following signs directly toward the village of Tutbury. The castle grounds are clearly signposted as you approach the village. Guests at Three Queens Hotel benefit from our free on-site parking, meaning you can return from your excursion and park with complete peace of mind.
• By Public Transport: If you prefer to leave the car behind, local buses run regular services connecting Burton upon Trent town centre to Tutbury. The centre of Burton is just a 5-minute walk from our front doors. Alternatively, Tutbury & Hatton railway station is situated roughly a mile from the castle gates, with connecting services available from Burton train station, located only 1 mile from the hotel.

What to See and Do at Tutbury Castle

A visit to Tutbury Castle offers plenty to discover across its historic grounds. Notable features to explore include:

• The Norman Motte and Folly: Walk up the ancient artificial hill for panoramic vistas stretching across Staffordshire and Derbyshire. At the summit sits a picturesque stone folly erected in the late 18th century, offering exceptional photo opportunities.
• The Great Hall Ruins: Inspect the remaining masonry of the Great Hall and private royal chambers where kings and queens once held court.
• Historic Re-enactments and Events: Tutbury Castle is renowned for its vibrant calendar of living history days, historical lectures, and seasonal celebrations. Costumed interpreters often bring figures like Mary Queen of Scots and Henry VIII back to life with captivating historical performances.
• Explore Tutbury Village: After touring the castle grounds, take time to stroll through the charming Georgian high street of Tutbury village itself. Here, you will find independent antique shops, craft galleries, and independent tearooms perfect for an afternoon cup of tea.

Dining Out in Burton upon Trent

After an active afternoon exploring the ruins and steep grounds of Tutbury Castle, you will no doubt be ready for a hearty evening meal. While Three Queens Hotel & Lodge focuses purely on providing comfortable, restful guest accommodation and does not offer an on-site restaurant or dining facilities, our location is ideal for food lovers.

A gentle 5-minute walk from the hotel brings you directly into the bustling heart of Burton upon Trent. The town centre boasts an extensive variety of dining spots, ranging from traditional British pubs celebrating Burton's famous brewing heritage to modern bistros, independent steakhouses, and diverse international restaurants serving Italian, Indian, and Asian cuisine. Our front desk team is always delighted to point you toward the most popular local pubs and eateries along High Street and Station Street.

Relax at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

When your day of exploring Staffordshire history comes to an end, return to the comfort of Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with the entire family, we have a selection of 62 rooms designed to meet your needs. Explore our complete selection of rooms and suites, which include Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple, Mews Apartment, and our charming four-poster Suite.

Every room at Three Queens Hotel features:

• A private en-suite bathroom stocked with complimentary toiletries
• Tea and coffee making facilities to help you unwind
• A flat-screen television with Freeview channels and built-in radio
• A hair dryer and direct dial telephone
• Fast, free WiFi throughout your stay

We pride ourselves on dependable hospitality, offering daily housekeeping, a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service, and reception hours from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a dedicated night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am for your peace of mind. Experience the best of Staffordshire's historic attractions with the comfort and convenience of our central location. Ready to plan your getaway? You can book your room online today or contact our friendly team directly on 01283 523800 or via email at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk.

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