Burton upon Trent Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Burton upon Trent with our comprehensive travel guide showcasing places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Burton upon Trent is a small town located in Staffordshire in West Midlands (region), in England. Situated along the River Trent, the town has a rich history and is home to many cultural and natural attractions. Whether you are seeking an outdoor adventure or just want to explore the town’s history, there is plenty to do and see in Burton upon Trent. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the must-visit places and things to do in Burton upon Trent.

Introduction to Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent is a town with a population of around 72,000 and a rich industrial heritage, which goes back centuries. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Burton was an important industrial hub, famous for its brewing industry which produces the world-famous Burton ale. It was also home to many pottery factories and mills for grinding corn.

Today, Burton upon Trent is a charming town, with many restaurants, cafes, and pubs as well as cultural and natural attractions to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Burton upon Trent

Here is a list of must-visit places in Burton upon Trent:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Brewery Centre: Learn about the history of brewing in Burton upon Trent and take a tour of the brewery.
  • Claymills Victorian Pumping Station: An iconic museum showcasing steam-powered engines that helped to drain the marshland surrounding Burton.
  • Burton upon Trent Museum and Art Gallery: A museum showcasing the history of Burton upon Trent, including the brewing industry, as well as art exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Burton upon Trent: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Branston Water Park: A tranquil haven for nature lovers, Branston Water Park offers spectacular views of wooded areas and serene lakes.
  • Shobnall Fields: A stunning park that offers escape from the buzz and noise of the town. It has large fields, a lake, and woodland trails for hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent has many attractive hiking and biking routes to explore. Here are some of the best trails to hike or bike:

  • Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath: It’s a popular trail for hiking and cycling between Stoke-on-Trent and Derbyshire.
  • Kingfisher Trail: This route showcases local nature reserves, parks, green spaces, and countryside.

Best Things to Do in Burton upon Trent: Activities and Tours

Burton upon Trent provides a range of activities to fit every interest, age, and budget. Here are some exciting things to do in Burton upon Trent:

  • Play a round of golf at the Branston Golf and Country Club.
  • Go bowling at the Tenpin Bowling Burton.
  • Watch a movie on the big screens at the Reel Cinema.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burton upon Trent

Here is a week-long itinerary of activities you can indulge in during your visit to Burton upon Trent:

Day 1 Arrival and checking into hotel/hostel
Day 2 Tour the National Brewery Centre and taste different types of Burton Ale
Day 3 Explore the Claymills Victorian Pumping Station or visit Branston Water Park
Day 4 Learn about the history of Burton upon Trent at the Burton upon Trent Museum and Art Gallery
Day 5 Play a game of golf at the Branston Golf and Country Club
Day 6 Go for a walk or bike ride along the Kingfisher Trail
Day 7 Relax with family at Shobnall Fields

Food and Drink Scene of Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent offers a range of local food and drink options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burton Sausage: A local specialty, The Burton Sausage is made from beef and a unique combination of herbs and spices.
  • Bakewell Pudding: A classic English pastry dish filled with a delicious layer of jam.

Local Beverages

  • Burton Ale: A distinctive beer made from hard water, which gives it a unique taste.
  • Mulled Wine: A warm alcoholic beverage with spices and fruits that is perfect for chilly evenings.

Where to Stay in Burton upon Trent: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Burton upon Trent has many great hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that cater to travelers with different budget ranges. Staywell Hotel, Grail Court Hotel, and Three Queens Hotel are some great options for your stay.

What to Buy in Burton upon Trent: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Burton upon Trent has several stores where you can buy local souvenirs and products to take home as gifts, including:

  • Beer and ale mugs from National Brewery Centre
  • Handmade pottery ware from the Burton upon Trent Museum and Art Gallery Gift Shop

Local Culture and Customs of Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are expected to be respectful of local customs and traditions. English is the primary language spoken in Burton, and local people are known for being friendly and welcoming towards visitors.

Best Time to Visit Burton upon Trent

The best time to visit Burton upon Trent is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant, and the town regularly organizes outdoor events and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burton upon Trent

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind for your visit to Burton upon Trent:

Do:

  • Visit the National Brewery Centre and try different types of Burton Ale.
  • Plan ahead and book accommodation and activities in advance.
  • Experience the beauty of nature at Branston Water Park and Shobnall Fields.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places or harm local wildlife.
  • Speak loudly in public spaces or disturb fellow visitors.
  • Overindulge in alcohol or drug substances.

Safety and Health

When it comes to safety and health, Burton upon Trent is a relatively safe town. Nonetheless, visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

Safety in Burton upon Trent

  • Keep an eye on your personal belongings while walking in crowded areas of the town.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking in unlit or isolated areas.
  • Stay in reputable accommodation and always use licensed taxis.

Health in Burton upon Trent

  • Make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Carry a medical kit if you have specific health conditions or allergies.
  • In case of a medical emergency, contact local emergency services or seek help at the hospital.

Getting to Burton upon Trent: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options and logistics for travelling to Burton upon Trent:

Airports Near Burton upon Trent

The closest airports to Burton upon Trent are East Midlands Airport, Birmingham International Airport, and Manchester Airport.

Bus Stations Near Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent bus station is well-connected to various cities and towns in the UK.

Other Options

  • Train: The railway links Burton upon Trent to major cities like London, Birmingham, Derby, and Nottingham.
  • Car: Burton upon Trent can be accessed via the A38 and A50 motorways.

How to Get Around in Burton upon Trent

Burton upon Trent is a compact town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance from downtown. Visitors can also access various taxi services, car rentals, or public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Burton upon Trent: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Burton upon Trent is centrally located, which makes it easy to explore other fantastic destinations in England, such as Birmingham, Derby, and Nottingham.

Conclusion

Burton upon Trent has something to offer to every visitor, regardless of their interest or budget. From its rich history and culture to scenic nature walks and exciting activities, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Burton upon Trent. Plan your visit today, and immerse yourself in the town’s unique charm and beauty.

Burton upon Trent Town Hall, built in 1894 Burton upon Trent Town Hall, built in 1894