Barton Marina Day Out from Burton: Plan Your Visit

A Scenic Waterside Escape: Discover Barton Marina

Nestled just south of Burton upon Trent in the Staffordshire countryside, Barton Marina has evolved from a series of former gravel pits into one of the region's most popular leisure destinations. Home to over three hundred canal boats and narrowboats moored along the Trent and Mersey Canal network, the marina offers a relaxed, maritime atmosphere bordered by peaceful woodland walks and wildlife-rich lakes. Whether you are looking for independent boutique shopping, peaceful walking paths, or a waterside meal, spending a day out at Barton Marina is an essential addition to any trip to the area.

Getting to Barton Marina from Burton upon Trent

One of the finest advantages of staying in Burton upon Trent is the exceptional road connectivity. Barton Marina is situated just off the A38 corridor near the village of Barton-under-Needwood, making it roughly a ten to fifteen-minute drive from the centre of Burton. Guests departing from Three Queens Hotel at 1 Bridge Street can easily join the A38 southbound, take the exit for Barton-under-Needwood, and follow the signs straight into the marina's spacious visitor parking areas.

For visitors relying on public transport, local bus routes connect Burton town centre with Barton-under-Needwood, from which the marina is a pleasant walk along local country paths. If you prefer to arrive by rail, Burton train station is just one mile from the hotel, giving you smooth transit into town before you embark on your country excursion.

Things to See and Do at Barton Marina

Barton Marina is far more than simply a haven for boaters. It features a thoughtfully curated collection of attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages:

• Lakeside and Woodland Trails: The site encompasses two large lakes surrounded by well-maintained walking trails. Over thirty thousand trees were planted across the grounds, creating a thriving habitat for waterbirds, swans, and native wildlife. A gentle circular stroll around the water takes around forty-five minutes and provides plenty of panoramic photo opportunities.
• Independent Retail and Boutiques: The timber-clad buildings fronting the marina host a range of independent shops. You can browse artisan food shops, designer clothing boutiques, homeware and gift stores, handcrafted jewellery, and high-end outdoor apparel.
• The Waterfront Gallery: Art lovers will appreciate the on-site art gallery, which regularly exhibits paintings, glass art, ceramics, and sculptures from both local and national artists.
• Red Carpet Cinema: This independent boutique cinema and cafe-bar at the marina screens contemporary releases alongside independent arthouse films, providing an intimate, cultural evening entertainment option.

Dining Out by the Water and in Town

When hunger strikes during your day out, Barton Marina offers several independent cafes, a lakeside pub, and bistros right on the waterfront. You can sit outdoors watching the canal boats glide by while enjoying a specialty coffee, an afternoon cream tea, or a hearty gastropub lunch overlooking the jetties.

After a full day browsing the marina and exploring the footpaths, you can head back into Burton upon Trent for your evening meal. As the historic brewing capital of the UK, Burton is home to a fantastic selection of traditional alehouses, contemporary craft beer bars, and international restaurants. Because Three Queens Hotel is situated just a 5-minute walk from the town centre, you can leave your car parked for the evening and stroll down into town to sample local ales and dine at your choice of Italian, Indian, British, or Asian restaurants.

Relax at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

After a rewarding day exploring Barton Marina and the wider Staffordshire landscape, return to Three Queens Hotel & Lodge for a quiet, comfortable night's rest. Our location on Bridge Street offers the ideal base for travellers exploring the A38 corridor, whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with family.

We provide 62 comfortable guest rooms, ensuring options to match every itinerary. You can explore our full selection of rooms and suites, which include Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, alongside our spacious Mews Apartment and luxurious four-poster Suite. Every room is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio channels, free WiFi, a direct dial phone, and tea and coffee making facilities to help you unwind.

To keep your visit hassle-free, Three Queens Hotel offers free on-site parking, meaning you never have to worry about finding a parking space after your day trips. Daily housekeeping ensures your space remains fresh throughout your stay, and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service is available for added convenience. Our reception team is on hand from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, backed by an attentive night porter on duty from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am to assist with late arrivals or early departures.

Plan Your Staffordshire Getaway Today

Whether you are planning a tranquil weekend exploring the waterways of Barton Marina, walking the National Forest trails, or discovering the heritage of Burton upon Trent, Three Queens Hotel provides convenient, straightforward accommodation in an unbeatable town location. Book your stay directly online today to secure the best rates for your next Staffordshire getaway.

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