Burton-upon-Trent offers a range of attractions, from historic architecture and a changing cultural programme to the landscape along the River Trent. The remains of Burton Abbey lie in the town centre on the river’s western bank; the Trent Washlands are part of the river’s floodplain. When looking for accommodation, you could first consider whether cultural sites, events or outdoor trails will be the focus of your stay.
Burton Abbey, the church and market architecture
Burton Abbey is a Scheduled Monument. Its surviving remains include underground remains, standing sections and traces visible as earthworks. Wulfric Spot founded the abbey in 1002. Its founding year and the different forms of the surviving remains offer two ways to explore its history: the abbey’s early development and its archaeological remains.
The Church of St Modwen provides a different architectural accent. This Palladian parish church was built in 1719–26 and retains a 15th-century font. Burton upon Trent Market Hall, meanwhile, has two distinct building phases: it was completed in 1883 and extended in 1925. Its eclectic Renaissance architecture and notable stone carvings add to the picture of the town’s architectural history. The dates show that completion and the later extension were separate stages.
Cultural programme and brewing heritage
The Brewhouse Arts Centre complements the historic attractions with live music, comedy, theatre and other arts events. As the programme changes, check the current event listings for specific dates. Practical workshops are also offered, though availability may vary. If you would like to plan a workshop, check the date in advance.
A tasting offers another connection to the local brewing heritage: beers from the Heritage Brewing Company can be sampled at the taproom and pub, The Burton Bridge Inn. Before your trip, check whether a tasting is scheduled for your dates.
Riverside landscapes and trails
The Trent Washlands lie on the floodplain of the River Trent, which flows through Burton-upon-Trent. Visitors can spot herons, dragonflies and damselflies there. Wildlife varies by season, so this nature experience can be different throughout the year.
In Burton-upon-Trent, a 5.5-mile stretch of towpath along the Trent & Mersey Canal has been resurfaced and widened. The improved path runs from Branston Water Park to the Dove Aqueduct and offers a traffic-free route for pedestrians, boaters and cyclists all year round. The same improvement project also enhanced wildlife habitats along the canal.
Another option is the TTV Burton Washlands Circular Walk. Along the River Trent, it follows the Trent Valley Way to the Leicester Line Bridge viaduct. The route is an easy walk across grassland and farm tracks. The two options therefore differ in their intended use: the towpath is for pedestrians, boaters and cyclists, while the Circular Walk is described as a walking route.
Gardens and a nearby destination
Five wooden sculptures and five rubbing posts stand along the paths at Stapenhill Hollows. Stapenhill Gardens combine formal gardens with open grassland, woodland and a play area. There is also a swan sculpture with a planter, commissioned by the Borough Council in 1953. These features give the gardens a distinctive character alongside the historic buildings and riverside trails.
Near Burton-upon-Trent, in Stretton, the Claymills Victorian Pumping Station is a museum and archive featuring Victorian steam pumping engines. The site welcomes visitors on Thursdays and Saturdays. Visitors can watch the volunteers at work and take a guided tour. Check visiting dates before you travel.
Discover more destinations: Rolleston-on-Dove, Seisdon, Stone, Himley, Dunston, Eccleshall, Cheddleton, Drointon.
For the wider travel overview: Staffordshire.
