Burton On Trent

The town of Burton-on-Trent began life as a settlement near the Monastery of Saint Mowden in 600 AD. The monks were the first to discover that the local Staffordshire water had unusual properties that made excellent beer.

By the 19th Century, Burton-on-Trent had become the brewing capital of Britain, a position it retains to this day. Packed with visitor attractions, it is the perfect place from which to explore the National Forest.

Attractions

Given that Burton-on-Trent is home to leading beers (including Bass and Carling) the first port of call must surely be the Coors Visitor Centre. This tells the story of Bass beer, and visitors may watch the brewing process and taste samples. The Centre also houses Shire horses and vintage vehicles. Coors and Marstons offer guided tours of their breweries.

The Victorian brewers ploughed their wealth into Burton-on-Trent, and the town centre hosts some of the finest Gothic architecture in Britain. Take time to visit the town hall and the Churches of St Paul and St Margret. The 18th Century Church of St Mowden (situated near the market place) is well worth a look, with tea and coffee available on Saturday mornings.

Culturally minded visitors will love the Brewhouse Arts Centre. Boasting a large theatre, cinema, gallery, studio and bistro this is definitely the artistic hub of the town.

Staffordshire is famous for its pottery and glassware, and at Georgian Crystal you can watch it being made. Those who want to try out their own skills should head to the Cornmill Ceramics Café, where visitors can paint in a relaxed atmosphere.

Sports fans will find themselves drawn to the Shobnall Leisure Centre, which offers extensive facilities for athletics, hockey, football, rugby, tennis, bowls and even crazy golf! Families may prefer the Meadowside Leisure Centre, which offers a crèche facility in addition to squash and swimming.

Golfers, sailors and outdoor enthusiasts will not be disappointed with Burton-on-Trent. A short distance from the town is Blithfield Resevoir, with a sailing club and excellent trout fishing. It houses two golf clubs, where newcomers can play by appointment. Wind-surfers and anglers love the forty-acre lake at Branston Water Park, and the open meadows make ideal play areas for children to let off steam.

Visitors preferring to stay nearer the town centre will enjoy the park at Andresy Island, which is accessible only by a footbridge. Cruises on the River Trent are also available. Should you want to learn the darker side of Burton’s history then take one of the guided Ghost Walks around the town centre.

Shopping

Burton-on-Trent has hosted a market for centuries, and visitors wanting a bargain should head to Coopers Square in the town centre on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. In addition, there is a covered market place.

European foods may be purchased from the continental market which has recently been established in the town. Well-known national brands may be found in The Octagon and Burton Place shopping centres, also located near the town centre.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Pubs and inns continue to dominate the town’s social scene, and there is no shortage to choose from. Younger clubbers will enjoy the Premier Bar.

Food lovers will be pleased to note that Staffordshire is enjoying a revival of local organic produce, and many of the restaurants and eating houses make a point of including this in their menus. Most of the town’s pubs and inns offer a wide selection of good food. As well as these, Burton-on-Trent also plays host to foreign cuisine. There are a number of noted Chinese restaurants, but the dominant ethnic food is Indian, and the town boasts a massive range of curry houses.

Visitors wanting a night at the theatre should head to the Brewhouse Arts Centre. Those preferring a mainstream film should go to the Cineworld multiplex, situated close to the bowling alley.

Tourist Information

Burton Tourist Information Centre, Coors Visitor Centre, Horninglow Street, Burton-upon-Trent,Staffordshire DE14 1YQtic@eaststaffsbc.gov.ukwww.enjoyeaststaffs.co.uk

Airport

Birmingham International Airport is the closest airport, and can easily be reached by train, or hire car.