National Forest Walking Festival: Walks from Burton

The National Forest is one of the United Kingdom’s boldest environmental success stories. Across 200 square miles of Staffordshire, Derbyshire, and Leicestershire, millions of trees have transformed former industrial and mining landscapes into thriving woodlands, wildflower meadows, and serene nature habitats. Each May, the vibrant National Forest Walking Festival celebrates this breathtaking regeneration, inviting ramblers, families, and casual strollers to pull on their boots and discover the landscape on foot.

Positioned prominently on the western edge of the forest along the River Trent, Burton upon Trent is affectionately regarded as the western capital of this green expanse. Whether you are aiming to log serious trail mileage or take leisurely strolls along historic waterways, Burton offers the ideal starting point. Here is your comprehensive guide to exploring the National Forest Walking Festival from Burton upon Trent.

The National Forest Walking Festival: What to Expect

Spanning nearly two weeks, the National Forest Walking Festival brings together experienced walk leaders, local wildlife experts, and passionate historians. The festival programme is packed with dozens of diverse excursions catering to all ability levels. Guided routes range from short, sensory woodland ambles and historical town tours to strenuous day-long treks covering over ten to fifteen miles.

What makes the festival truly special is the narrative woven into every path. Along the way, walk leaders point out reintroduced wildlife species, ancient hedgerows, historic industrial archaeology, and expansive young woodlands that show the forest evolving in real time. It is an exceptional opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the stunning transformation of the Midlands countryside.

Top Trails and Walking Routes Around Burton upon Trent

When you base yourself in Burton, you do not need to travel far to find excellent trails. Many festival routes and self-guided paths start right within the town or just a short drive away.

The Burton Washlands and Ferry Bridge

One of the town’s most cherished green spaces is the Burton Washlands, an expansive riverside wetland flanking the River Trent. A gentle circular stroll here lets you take in weeping willows, open flood meadows, and abundant birdlife, including herons, kingfishers, and swans. Follow the path south towards the historic Stapenhill Gardens, crossing the famous Victorian Ferry Bridge. In spring, the gardens boast brilliant floral displays, manicured lawns, and shaded woodland trails leading up the river bluffs.

The Trent and Mersey Canal Towpaths

For flat, easy-to-navigate walking filled with industrial heritage, the Trent and Mersey Canal is unmatched. Starting from the edge of Burton, you can follow the tranquil towpaths towards the charming village of Branston or north toward Horninglow and Stretton. Canal walks offer a picturesque, traffic-free vantage point where you can observe narrowboats cruising through traditional locks and spot wildlife along the reedbeds.

Branston Water Park

Located just a couple of miles south of the town centre, Branston Water Park is a Premier Green Flag site created from a restored gravel quarry. The site features a large, reed-fringed lake encircled by a level, well-surfaced walking trail. It is an essential stop for birdwatchers and naturalists, providing a peaceful retreat that connects into wider bridleways leading deeper into the National Forest canopy.

Rosliston Forestry Centre

A short drive into the South Derbyshire countryside brings you to Rosliston Forestry Centre, a premier hub for National Forest activities. Rosliston offers an intricate network of waymarked routes winding through young plantations, mature oak woods, ponds, and open meadows. The hidden wooden sculptures scattered throughout the woodland make it a particular favourite for walkers of all ages.

Fuel Your Adventures in Burton upon Trent

A full day on the trails demands plenty of energy. While exploring the area, you can take full advantage of Burton upon Trent’s thriving town centre, which is filled with independent cafes, artisan bakeries, and traditional coffee houses. It is easy to pick up fresh pastries, hot takeaway coffees, and packed lunches in the morning before meeting your walking group at the trailhead.

In the evening, Burton’s world-renowned brewing heritage comes to life. After a brisk day across the hills and woodlands, head into the town centre to unwind in one of Burton’s historic pubs or independent microbreweries. The town features an impressive culinary mix, including classic British pub fare, hearty bistros, and international restaurants serving everything from authentic Indian curries to wood-fired pizzas.

Rest and Recharge at Three Queens Hotel

Having a comfortable, welcoming base makes all the difference during an active walking holiday. Located on Bridge Street on the convenient A38 corridor, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge places you minutes from both the River Trent trails and the lively town centre.

Walkers arriving by car will appreciate our free on-site parking, making it simple to load your hiking gear and set off for festival meeting points across Derbyshire and Staffordshire each morning. If you are travelling by public transport, Burton train station is only one mile away, with local bus routes connecting to nearby villages and forestry sites.

We offer 62 comfortable rooms tailored to every traveller, whether you are walking solo, visiting as a couple, or trekking with a larger walking club. Browse our selection of rooms, which includes Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, alongside our spacious Mews Apartment and four-poster Suite. Every room is en-suite with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, and tea and coffee making facilities—ideal for brewing a hot cuppa to soothe tired muscles after hours on your feet.

Stay connected with free high-speed WiFi to download your festival trail maps or check the local weather forecast. Each room also includes a flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio for a relaxing evening indoors. With daily housekeeping, a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service to freshen up your walking clothes, and reception open from 8am to 10pm backed by a dedicated night porter from 10pm to 8am, your stay is fully supported from start to finish.

Plan Your Walking Holiday Today

The National Forest Walking Festival is the quintessential celebration of the Great British outdoors, showcasing how nature, community, and heritage come together in the heart of England. Experience the best routes in the region from a practical, comfortable town-centre location. Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today and step straight into the green trails of the National Forest.

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