Things To Do
in Burton upon Trent
Burton upon Trent is a historic market town in Staffordshire set on the River Trent. Its proud brewing heritage, dating back centuries, earned it the nickname Brewery Town and left a trail of pubs, maltings, and riverside spots. The town pairs Victorian architecture and canal-side walks with a friendly Midlands vibe and easy access to the surrounding countryside.
It makes for a convenient base to explore the Midlands without the crowds of bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning St. Modwen's Church, an architectural gem that dates back to the 12th century. Wander through its fascinating interiors, soaking in the history and artistry of the stained glass windows. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the River Trent to appreciate the scenic views and the tranquility of the waterway.
Head to the Burton upon Trent Museum and Art Gallery, where you can delve into the rich history of the town, particularly its brewing heritage. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a nearby café that features local dishes, fueling up for an afternoon of exploration. Post-lunch, visit the National Brewery Centre to learn about the brewing process with interactive exhibits and tasting sessions.
As the sun sets, make your way to a traditional pub like The Cooper’s Tavern, where you can enjoy a pint of locally brewed ale. Savor classic British cuisine for dinner, perhaps fish and chips or a hearty pie. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated town center, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day at the historic Bass Brewery, where you can join a guided tour to learn about the brewing process that has defined Burton upon Trent. Discover the significance of the town's mineral-rich water in creating exceptional beers, a unique aspect of its brewing legacy. After the tour, enjoy a tasting session of various ales crafted by the brewery.
Visit the nearby Marston’s Brewery for another perspective on local brewing traditions. Their informative tours provide insights into the vast array of beers produced and the history of one of the UK's leading breweries. For lunch, choose a local eatery that specializes in farm-to-table ingredients, emphasizing the flavors of the region.
Relax at one of Burton's cozy restaurants for dinner, enjoying a meal paired with local beers. Depending on the day, you might catch live music or a quiz night at a local pub, adding to the evening's enjoyment. Wind down your day with a stroll along the riverbanks, reflecting on the rich brewing culture you've experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-70 |
| 🛏️One-night hotel stay | $70-120 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich brewing history and riverfront charm
- Compact, walkable town centre with charming architecture
- Good base for exploring the Midlands countryside
- Nightlife is quieter than in larger cities
- Some attractions are seasonal or outside the town centre
- Traffic can be busier around Market Place during peak hours
Places to Visit in Burton upon Trent
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic river-facing gardens with a distinctive swan fountain and parkland views—great at sunrise or golden hour.
Historic architecture and the bustle of the town center offer classic composition opportunities.
Quiet canal-side scenes, boats, and reflections along the waterways.
Expansive parkland and stately home grounds provide grand landscape and architecture photography.
Food in Burton upon Trent
Burton upon Trent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty pie cooked in local Burton ale, typically served with mash and vegetables.
Must-Try!
A classic rustic platter of cheese, pickles, crusty bread, and chutneys, great for a light meal.
Crispy battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and tartare sauce.
Fish coated in a light ale batter, fried to a crisp and served with chips.
Seasonal pies available in pubs and bakeries, showcasing local produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, bread, and baked goods in a lively town setting.
Seasonal street-food stalls and food trucks that appear near the canals during events and weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette values orderly queues; wait your turn in shops, pubs, and public transport lines.
Pubs are social but generally quiet by midnight; raise voices only in a friendly, respectful way.
Respect private property and local spaces; ask before taking photos of people in private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Burton upon Trent
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, 10-15% is customary in sit-down restaurants; in pubs and cafes tipping is optional and small amounts are common for exceptional service.
Cash is accepted in many places, but contactless cards and mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) are widely used across shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with outdoor markets and canal-side events; light evenings are ideal for strolls along the river and town lights after dusk.
Milder temps and autumn foliage around parks and along the Trent towpath; great for photography and harvest flavors at markets.
Cool, wetter conditions are common; plan for shorter daylight hours and cozy pub dining; some outdoor attractions operate on limited hours.
Wildlife returns to Branston Water Park and river margins; garden trails come alive with blooms and bird activity.
Burton upon Trent at Night
Hiking in Burton upon Trent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic riverside route along the River Trent with open fields, river views, and wildlife near Burton.
Gentle countryside trails around Branston and Shobnall, suitable for easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Burton upon Trent by plane.
Approximately 20-25 miles north-west of Burton; regular domestic and international flights; accessible by road or rail via Derby.
Approximately 40-50 miles south-west; major international hub with broad flight options; reachable by rail or car with a short onward train or drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically the majority demographic, with growing diversity from South Asian and Eastern European communities.
A mix of long-term residents and students from nearby colleges, contributing to a lively, family-friendly town atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Burton Albion FC (Pirelli Stadium) is the town’s well-supported football club, reflecting regional sports culture.
Local clubs and grounds play cricket in the summer, reflecting a common Midlands pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burton upon Trent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs offer vegetarian mains; look for veggie sausages, quiche, or veggie pies and ask about sauces or sides.
Inform staff of gluten intolerance; many places offer GF options, but confirm batter, sauces, and cross-contamination practices.