Visiting Tutbury Castle from Burton upon Trent: Guide

Discovering Tutbury Castle from Burton upon Trent

Perched high on a grassy motte overlooking the River Dove, Tutbury Castle stands as one of Staffordshire's most evocative historic landmarks. Situated roughly five miles north-west of Burton upon Trent, this medieval fortress makes for an effortless and memorable excursion. Whether you are fascinated by the turbulent life of Mary, Queen of Scots, captivated by medieval architecture, or simply looking for breathtaking countryside views, a day trip to Tutbury Castle offers an authentic glimpse into England's storied past.

After a day exploring ramparts and heritage displays, returning to comfortable lodgings makes the experience even better. Three Queens Hotel & Lodge on Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent provides an ideal base. Located on the A38 corridor, just a mile from Burton train station and a five-minute walk from the town centre, the hotel allows you to explore regional treasures like Tutbury Castle with complete convenience.

The Remarkable History of Tutbury Castle

Tutbury Castle boasts a history spanning over a thousand years. Originally an Anglo-Saxon stronghold, the site was fortified with a Norman motte and bailey castle shortly after the Norman Conquest in 1071 by Henry de Ferrers. Over subsequent centuries, it grew into a formidable royal fortress under the control of the Duchy of Lancaster and John of Gaunt.

The castle's most famous chapter arrived in the sixteenth century, when it served as a prison for Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary was held captive at Tutbury on four separate occasions between 1569 and 1585 under the watchful guard of the Earl of Shrewsbury. She reportedly loathed the cold, damp fortress, writing passionate letters of complaint to Queen Elizabeth I. During the English Civil War, the castle endured long sieges as a Royalist garrison before Parliament ordered its slighting in 1647, leaving the romantic ruins that visitors admire today.

Highlights of Your Visit to Tutbury Castle

Today, Tutbury Castle is operated as a popular heritage visitor attraction. Depending on when you visit, you will find a host of features to explore:

• The Castle Grounds and Ruins: Walk along the outer ramparts and take in the remaining stone walls, the ruins of the medieval towers, and the North Tower.
• Panoramic Views: Situated high above the Dove Valley, the castle grounds offer spectacular sweeping vistas across Staffordshire and into Derbyshire.
• The Great Hall: Step inside the surviving Great Hall, which contains historical exhibits and recreations of Tudor-era furnishings and dress.
• Living History Events: Tutbury Castle is widely celebrated for its lively calendar of historical re-enactments, ghost tours, open-air theatre performances, and Tudor living-history days, often featuring vivid interpretations of historical figures.
• The King's Bedroom: Explore rooms connected to visits by King Charles I and King James I during the seventeenth century.

Travelling to Tutbury from Burton upon Trent

Reaching Tutbury Castle from Three Queens Hotel is straightforward, making it an easy morning or afternoon trip:

• By Car: Take the A511 (Horninglow Road and Tutbury Road) straight out of Burton upon Trent toward Tutbury. The journey typically takes just 10 to 15 minutes. At Three Queens Hotel, you can take advantage of our free on-site parking, ensuring your vehicle is secure when you return from your day out.
• By Public Transport: Regular bus services connect Burton upon Trent town centre with the village of Tutbury. Buses stop within a short walking distance of the castle gates, making it accessible even if you are travelling without a car.
• By Bicycle: For keen cyclists, the scenic route along country lanes between Burton and Tutbury makes for a pleasant journey along the valley.

Exploring Tutbury Village and Dining

After touring the castle grounds, take time to wander through Tutbury village itself. The high street features picturesque half-timbered houses, antique shops, independent boutiques, and historic coaching inns. The nearby Priory Church of St Mary the Virgin, founded in 1080, features magnificent Norman stonework and is well worth a brief visit.

When it is time for refreshments or dinner, Tutbury offers independent tea rooms and traditional country pubs where you can enjoy local ales and classic British fare. Alternatively, head back to Burton upon Trent. From Three Queens Hotel, a brief five-minute walk brings you into Burton's bustling town centre, where you can take your pick from a diverse array of restaurants, historic brewing pubs, pizzerias, and international eateries.

Your Base: Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

Whether you are visiting Staffordshire for historical adventures or regional sightseeing, Three Queens Hotel & Lodge provides a relaxing environment to unwind. With 62 bedrooms, we offer accommodation suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families alike.

Guests can choose from a range of room options, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, and Quadruple rooms, as well as our self-contained Mews Apartment and an elegant four-poster Suite. You can view our rooms to find the best configuration for your travel party.

Every room is fully en-suite with its own private bathroom and includes:

• Flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and radio
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Hair dryer and complimentary toiletries
• Direct dial telephone
• Free high-speed WiFi

To ensure a hassle-free trip, the hotel provides daily housekeeping, a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service, and flexible reception coverage from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am. Best of all, our free on-site parking takes the stress out of regional motoring throughout Staffordshire and the East Midlands.

Plan Your Staffordshire Getaway Today

From the tragic royal intrigues of Mary, Queen of Scots to tranquil afternoons taking in views across the River Dove, a visit to Tutbury Castle is a highlight of any stay in the area. Ready to begin planning your Staffordshire heritage trip? Book your stay directly with Three Queens Hotel & Lodge today, or call our team on 01283 523800 to secure your room.

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