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Burton Ale Trail: Beer, Heritage and Great Company
Today I joined the Burton Ale Trail, organised by Ian Webster, for a fantastic day exploring some of Burton upon Trent’s pubs and beer heritage. I was joined by Niall, who runs the Facebook page From Sheffield with Pubs, and it was great to spend the day chatting about pubs, history and all things beer-related. We also met up with Jenny and Kenny from Real Ale Finder at various points during the day, which made for plenty of enjoyable conversation between venues. The trail took us around a variety of pubs, each with its own character and story to tell, showcasing why Burton remains such an important town in Britain’s brewing history. With good company, interesting pubs and plenty of conversation along the way, it proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable day out.
Burton upon Trent is one of the most important brewing towns in the world. Beer has been brewed here for centuries, but the town really came to prominence during the 18th and 19th centuries thanks to its mineral-rich water, which proved perfect for producing pale ales and India Pale Ales. Famous names such as Bass, Allsopp, Worthington and Marston helped turn Burton into a global brewing powerhouse, with its beers exported across the world. At its Victorian peak, dozens of breweries operated in the town and thousands of local people worked in the industry. Today, Burton’s brewing heritage remains at the heart of the town, with historic brewery buildings, traditional pubs and independent brewers keeping that story alive.
Stapenhill Institute Club
Yesterday I headed over to Burton-on-Trent for the yearly “Burton Ale Trail”. Meeting up with Niall From Sheffield With Pubs and Jenny and Kenny from Real Ale Finder App we headed out to Stapenhill Institute Club. Stapenhill Institute Club has been at the heart of the local community for well over a century. The Institute was originally formed in 1884 and began life in temporary premises on nearby Ferry Street before moving into its impressive purpose-built red-brick home on Main Street in 1888, where it remains today. The building reflects the confidence and growth of Victorian Stapenhill, which was expanding alongside Burton’s famous brewing industry. Over the years, the club has provided a place for local people to meet, socialise and take part in community activities. Today, it remains a well-known and welcoming institution, continuing a tradition that stretches back more than 140 years.
Inside has a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, with a bright, open layout that gives plenty of room to relax. Large windows bring in lots of natural light, while long runs of red upholstered seating provide space for both small groups and larger gatherings. Patterned carpets, polished wooden tables and framed local artwork add character throughout, with the raised seating area offering another quiet corner away from the main room. The bar sits proudly at one end beneath dark wood panelling, creating a strong focal point within the space. Overall, it feels friendly, familiar and very much part of the local community.
On the bar a selection of 6 cask ales, some handpull and others direct from the cask. I went for Vivid Dreams of Idaho by Oxford Brewery, a session IPA with juicy mango, papaya and citrus notes and a balanced bitter finish.
The Elms
Second up was The Elms. The Elms began life in the late nineteenth century as a private house before becoming one of Burton upon Trent’s original “parlour pubs”, a style of pub created by converting large houses into smaller, more comfortable drinking establishments. Situated on Stapenhill Road, it has served the local community for generations and retains much of its historic character. One of its most distinctive features is the faded “BEST BASS ELMS INN” lettering high on the front of the building, a reminder of its long association with Burton’s famous brewing industry and its ownership by Bass until 1992. Today, it remains a well-loved traditional pub with deep local roots.
It combines the character of a traditional Victorian pub with a variety of spaces that suit different occasions. Original wood panelling, patterned fixed seating, open fireplaces and decorative mirrors create cosy corners full of period charm, while larger seating areas provide a more open and relaxed setting. Exposed brickwork, comfortable chairs and soft lighting help make the newer spaces feel just as welcoming. Outside, the pub continues to celebrate its Bass heritage, with striking painted Bass branding across the building’s red-brick frontage. A covered seating area, front picnic benches and a large rear beer garden with colourful tables provide plenty of outdoor space and add to the pub’s distinctive character.
Was great chatting to Loz and Craig in here, and also with Ian Webster, dressed as Nurse Inga Hangover, who organises the event and was out raising money during the day. On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales to choose from. I went for Cheshire Cat by Weetwood Ales, a blonde ale with refreshing citrus notes and a smooth, easy-drinking finish.
Burton Bridge Inn
Over the river and into Burton Bridge Inn / Burton Bridge Brewery. Burton Bridge Inn occupies a building that dates back to the seventeenth century and stands close to the historic Burton Bridge crossing of the River Trent. Originally known as the Fox & Goose Inn, it was purchased by Bass from the Marquis of Anglesey in the early nineteenth century and remained part of the famous Burton brewery estate for many years. Following its closure around 1980, the pub stood empty for roughly two years before being purchased by Geoff Mumford and Bruce Wilkinson, founders of Burton Bridge Brewery. In 1982, both the brewery and the newly renamed Burton Bridge Inn opened, preserving an important piece of Burton’s brewing and pub heritage for future generations.
The Burton Bridge Brewery, located behind the inn, shares its name with the nearby bridge and has been crafting ales since it opened. It’s part of Burton-upon-Trent’s long brewing tradition, known for its top-notch ales thanks to the unique water from the local hills. Heritage Brewing also brew here since the closure of their original site.
Inside, Burton Bridge Inn has the feel of a traditional pub that has evolved over centuries while keeping its historic character intact. Two main rooms are served by a central bar, creating a layout that encourages both conversation and relaxed drinking. Wooden pew seating, exposed oak beams and old brickwork give the interior plenty of warmth, while the low ceilings and traditional furnishings add to its welcoming atmosphere. Upstairs, the preserved skittles alley is a real highlight, with the original wooden lane, pins and worn floorboards offering a fascinating glimpse into the pub’s past. Now furnished with tables and seating around the alley, it remains a characterful and unusual space that blends heritage with everyday pub life.
A huge selection of both cask and keg beers available on the bar (and an outside bar), showcasing their wide range of beers. I went for Twice As Precious by Burton Bridge Brewery and Cloudwater Brew Co., a collaboration smooth bitter with rich malt character and a velvety finish.
Beeropolis
A short walk brought me to Beeropolis. Beeropolis opened on Burton High Street in January 2021, created by Ash Ayling and Pete Spittles following the success of their ventures elsewhere in the area. The bar occupies the former Fuggle & Nugget site within a building whose origins date back to the early eighteenth century, although the current shopfront was added much later during the late nineteenth or early twentieth century. Before becoming a bar, the premises had been used as a hairdresser’s and, earlier still, an estate agent’s office. Its name is a playful nod to Burton upon Trent’s brewing heritage, reflecting the town’s historic importance as one of Britain’s great centres of beer production and export.
Inside has a warm and welcoming feel, with deep blue walls, wooden seating and plenty of reminders of Burton’s brewing heritage throughout the room. Framed photographs, historic prints and brewery memorabilia add plenty of character, while large front windows bring in lots of natural light and create a pleasant spot to sit and watch the town go by. Bench seating and traditional tables make the space feel comfortable and relaxed, encouraging conversation between regulars and visitors alike. Outside, a small enclosed courtyard offers a quieter place to enjoy a drink, with exposed brickwork, barrel tables and subtle lighting adding to its character.
On the bar a choice of 4 cask ales alongside a wide variety of craft beers ranging in style and strength. I went for BAT TO THE FUTURE by 3PS Brewery, a porter with damson fruit and Madagascan vanilla, giving it a rich, smooth and slightly sweet finish.
Burton Constitutional Club
A short stroll down the High Street in Burton-on-Trent brought me to The Cons Club. Burton Constitutional Club has been part of Burton’s social life for more than a century. The building was originally constructed as the town’s main post office in 1874–77 on the site of the earlier Parker’s Almshouse. When postal services moved to New Street in 1905, the building was converted into a gentlemen’s club, with extensive refurbishment including oak panelling and purpose-built social rooms. The Burton Constitutional Club was established in 1911 and has remained in the building ever since. Over the years it has continued to serve as a meeting place for local people, preserving an important piece of Burton’s Victorian heritage while remaining a well-known part of the High Street today.
Inside is full of Victorian grandeur, with soaring ceilings, ornate plasterwork, stained glass and rich dark wood panelling creating an impressive first impression. The main rooms are centred around magnificent snooker tables beneath traditional hanging lights, while comfortable seating areas provide space for a quiet drink and conversation. Large draped windows bring plenty of natural light into the building, highlighting the original fireplaces, trophy displays and decorative architectural details. Despite its scale, the club feels welcoming and well used. To the rear, a well-kept bowling green and covered seating area offer an attractive outdoor space that remains a popular part of club life.
A selection of 3 cask ales were available on the bar, along with keg selections. I went for White Lion by Ashover Brew Co., a golden ale with delicate citrus notes and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Dog Inn
Just up the road was The Dog – Burton On Trent run by Black Country Ales. The Dog Inn has a history dating back to the early nineteenth century and is one of Burton’s best-known traditional pubs. Originally part of the Marquis of Anglesey’s estate, it was sold into private ownership in 1867 before being leased to Worthington’s in 1873 and purchased outright two years later. Following the 1927 merger between Worthington’s and Bass, the pub became part of Burton’s brewing empire. For a period in the late 1990s it traded as O’Neill’s, but later returned to its historic name. After changing ownership several times, the pub was acquired and extensively refurbished by Black Country Ales, reopening in 2015 and beginning a new chapter in its long history.
Inside, the pub has the warm and comfortable feel of a Victorian lounge bar that has changed little over the years. Decorative wallpaper, carved woodwork and ornate fireplaces give the room plenty of character, while patterned carpets and traditional seating add to the cosy atmosphere. Curved upholstered bench seating creates inviting corners for a quiet drink, and large windows bring in plenty of natural light during the day. Historic photographs and local images on the walls provide gentle reminders of Burton’s past. The layout is broken into a series of distinct areas around the bar, helping the pub feel relaxed, welcoming and full of timeless charm.
A fantastic selection of 9 cask ales to choose between along with a variety of keg options. I went for MPA by Monty’s Brewery, a classic English pale ale with gentle grapefruit and lychee notes and a light, balanced finish.
Inn Uendos
A short walk brought me to Inn Uendo’s Bar. Inn Uendo’s opened on Station Street in Burton upon Trent in 2024, bringing a new micropub to a town already rich in brewing and pub heritage. The venture was created by Richard “Dicky” Peace, a well-known figure in Burton’s licensed trade who previously worked at venues including Blush, the Devonshire Arms and Burton Bridge Inn. Drawing on many years of experience behind the bar, he set out to create a friendly and welcoming venue centred on good conversation and a relaxed atmosphere. Located within Britannia House close to the railway station, Inn Uendo’s quickly established itself as a popular addition to Burton’s independent pub scene, helped by Richard’s strong local reputation and loyal following.
Inside has a bright and lively feel, with colourful bunting stretching across the ceiling and giving the room a cheerful character from the moment you walk in. Comfortable blue seating lines the walls, while small tables and chairs are arranged throughout the space to encourage conversation. Bold patterned wallpaper, framed artwork and a striking oversized clock on one wall add plenty of personality without overwhelming the room. Large front windows bring in lots of natural light during the day, helping the micropub feel open and welcoming. Behind the bar, illuminated signs, memorabilia and colourful displays add even more character, creating a friendly setting that feels relaxed, sociable and full of fun.
It was fantastic chatting to Richard and glad to see the bar is doing well. On the bar 2 cask ales to choose from including one brewed for the event by Silhill Brewery Ltd, alongside keg choices. I went for Stiff Defense by Silhill Brewery, a golden ale with citrus and floral hop notes and a clean, refreshing finish.
Bernie’s
Just over the road brought me to Bernie’s. Bernie’s opened on Station Street in 2026, bringing new life to part of Burton’s former Museum and Art Gallery building. Built in 1915 on the site of an earlier police station, the building has played an important role in the town’s history for over a century. After the museum relocated in the late 1970s, the ground-floor unit was used by a variety of businesses, including Byrkley Books and later a hairdresser’s. Today, Bernie’s combines Burton’s brewing heritage with a fresh independent approach through its partnership with Cornwall’s Bluntrock Brewery, giving this historic building a new purpose while retaining its connection to the local community.
Inside has a bright, lively atmosphere that immediately catches the eye, helped by the bold yellow walls and large front windows with attractive stained glass detailing. The long, open layout provides plenty of room for groups to gather, while a mix of tables, benches and bar seating creates comfortable spaces throughout. Colourful murals, brewery artwork and a striking Bluntrock Brewery feature wall add plenty of personality and reinforce the venue’s brewing identity. Dark ceilings and flooring help balance the bright décor, giving the room a warm and inviting feel. Even when busy, it remains relaxed and welcoming, with a friendly energy that encourages people to settle in and enjoy their visit.
It was great meeting and chatting to Nancy and I wish her all the best with this new venture! Drinks wise on the bar a selection of 4 cask ales, alongside a wide range of keg choices. I went for Ambassador by Bluntrock Brewery, a traditional bitter with balanced malt flavour and a smooth, rounded finish.
Devonshire Arms
Onto Devonshire Arms. The Devonshire Arms began life around 1830 as a private house before being converted into a pub during the 1850s as Burton upon Trent’s brewing industry continued to expand. By the late nineteenth century it had become part of the Eadie’s brewery estate, remaining so until Eadie’s was absorbed by Bass in 1932. Following a brewery ‘pub swap’ in 1978, the Devonshire Arms passed to Ind Coope, then part of Allied Breweries. A new chapter began in 1998 when Burton Bridge Brewery purchased the pub, helping secure its reputation among real ale enthusiasts. In February 2019, it was sold to its current owners, who continue to operate this historic Burton pub today.
Inside has a warm, busy feel, full of character and reminders of Burton’s brewing past. The front bar feels traditional and welcoming, with dark wood, tiled flooring, brewery signs, chalkboards and soft lighting around the serving area. Exposed brickwork and wood panelling add plenty of warmth, while the split-level layout gives the pub a distinctive look beyond the bar. Outside, the rear courtyard adds another lively space, with covered seating, brick walls and views towards old brewery buildings nearby. It feels historic, friendly and well used, with plenty to catch the eye inside and out.
On the bar a fantastic selection of cask ales with 7 to choose from, alongside a variety of keg beers. I went for North Riding Pale Ale (Devonshire Arms) by North Riding Brewery, a session pale ale with fruity hop notes and a fresh, citrus-led finish.
The Coopers Tavern
The Coopers Tavern was my next visit. Coopers Tavern is one of Burton upon Trent’s most historic pubs, with roots stretching back to the early nineteenth century. The building is believed to have been constructed as a house for Bass’s Brewer-in-Charge before later being used as a malt store and, from 1826, a store for Bass Imperial Stout. Brewers would gather there to sample the beer, and over time it developed into the Bass brewery tap, receiving a full public house licence in 1858. The pub remained closely connected to Bass for generations. Today, it is part of Joule’s Brewery, whose modern revival has its own link to the tavern, making Coopers a remarkable connection between Burton’s brewing past and present.
Inside, Coopers Tavern feels like a living museum to Burton’s brewing past, with every room packed with character and history. Traditional fireplaces, exposed beams and cosy seating areas create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while walls covered in Joule’s and Bass mirrors, brewery signs, framed photographs and vintage advertisements give visitors plenty to look at. The famous Tap Room remains a highlight, with cask beer served directly from the cask helping reinforce the pub’s historic charm. Outside, a sheltered courtyard provides additional seating among old brewery signs and barrel tables, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy a drink away from the bustle indoors.
On the bar a fantastic range of both cask and keg beers to choose from, varying in style and strength. I went for British SIPA, Batch Beer #1029 by Joule’s Brewery, a session IPA with bright citrus hop notes and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Last Heretic
Next up in Burton was to The last heretic. The Last Heretic takes its name from one of Burton’s most unusual historical figures. Edward Wightman lived in Burton upon Trent for much of his life and became the last person in England to be executed for heresy, being burned at the stake in nearby Lichfield in 1612. A plaque in Lichfield commemorates the event. The micropub opened on Station Street in May 2016, close to Burton railway station, bringing a modern addition to the town’s long pub tradition. The name was chosen to reflect a little-known part of local history, giving the pub a distinctive identity while maintaining a strong connection to Burton’s past.
Inside has a warm and welcoming feel, combining dark painted walls, timber flooring and soft industrial-style lighting to create a comfortable place to settle in with a pint. The single-room layout keeps everything connected, with the bar forming the natural focal point and plenty of seating packed into the space. Historic photographs, maps, brewery memorabilia and framed artwork celebrate Burton’s brewing heritage, giving visitors plenty to look at. A bright window nook at the front provides a quieter corner away from the bustle, while the long side bench encourages conversation between regulars and newcomers. Outside, a narrow gravelled beer garden with barrel tables offers an extra spot to enjoy a drink in the fresh air.
On the bar a great selection of 5 cask ales along with a choice of keg options and more available in cans. I went for BLOODBATH IN BAT PARADISE by 3PS Brewery, an American IPA with bright citrus and tropical hop notes and a firm, bitter finish.
The Roebuck Inn
Heading back in the direction of the Railway Station brought me onto Roebuck Inn Burton. The Roebuck Inn is one of Burton upon Trent’s long-established pubs, with origins believed to date back to the early nineteenth century. Standing on Station Street, it served generations of local residents and workers as Burton’s brewing industry grew around it. The building was substantially rebuilt in 1956 when Station Street was widened, giving the pub much of its present appearance. For many years, it was closely associated with the nearby Ind Coope Brewery and effectively operated as its brewery tap, strengthening its connection to Burton’s brewing heritage. The pub later passed to Punch Taverns in 1999 and then Admiral Taverns in 2007, before finally becoming an independent pub and continuing its long role in the town’s social life.
Inside has the comfortable feel of a traditional town pub that has served Burton for generations. The main room is open and spacious, with a mix of tables, chairs and bar seating spread throughout. Wood finishes, brewery memorabilia and framed photographs help reflect the pub’s long connection to Burton’s brewing heritage, while large windows bring plenty of natural light into the space during the day. The bar sits at the heart of the room and creates a natural focal point for both regulars and visitors. Overall, it feels friendly, relaxed and welcoming, with the character of a well-established local pub.
On the bar a choice of 6 cask ales to choose from, alongside a selection of keg beers. I went for Bass Premium Ale by Bass Brewers, a classic amber bitter with rich malt flavour, subtle fruit notes and a smooth, balanced finish.
Outwoods Brewing
Another short stroll in Burton brought me onto Outwoods Brewing. Outwoods Brewing Tap opened in July 2024 within a pair of restored railway arches in Station Street Yard, bringing a new chapter to a site closely linked to Burton’s brewing heritage. The brewery was founded by Colin Trowell, who began brewing at home in 2020 before developing the project into a commercial brewery and taproom. The arches had previously fallen into disrepair but were carefully transformed into a combined brewery and pub space. The location is particularly significant, standing on part of the former Allsopp’s Brewery site, once one of Burton upon Trent’s most famous brewing names. Today, Outwoods Brewing Tap blends Burton’s brewing past with a new generation of independent beer making.
Inside has a distinctive industrial character that reflects its home beneath the railway arches. The exposed brickwork and curved arch ceilings give the space plenty of personality, while wooden tables and bench seating keep it comfortable and welcoming. Brewing equipment is visible within the venue, helping visitors feel connected to the beer-making process and adding to the working brewery atmosphere. Soft lighting balances the industrial features, creating a relaxed setting that works equally well during quiet afternoons and busier evenings. The open layout encourages conversation, while the unique railway-arch setting makes it feel unlike anywhere else in Burton, combining history, brewing and socialising under one roof.
It was fantastic chatting to Colin when I arrived. On the bar a fantastic line up of 5 cask ales and 12 keg lines. Lots of different styles and strengths to choose between. I went for Summer Vibes by Outwoods Brewing, a pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes and a fresh, fruity finish.
The Coppersmiths Inn
Over the other side of the railway is The Coppersmiths Inn. The Coppersmiths Inn occupies a small building in Grain Warehouse Yard that was originally built as a coal yard office, probably during the late nineteenth century when the nearby Midland Grain Warehouse and surrounding railway goods facilities were developed. The office served Burton’s busy industrial and railway trade before eventually falling out of use. In 2015, the building found a new purpose when it opened as the Middle Earth Tavern micropub. It was renamed the Weighbridge Inn after Wentwell Brewery took over the lease in 2016, before later passing to Burton Old Cottage Brewery in 2018 and Muirhouse Brewery in 2019. In March 2026, it became the Coppersmiths Inn, beginning another chapter in the building’s long history.
Inside has a warm and welcoming feel, with the main bar acting as the social heart of the pub. Dark textured walls, exposed brickwork and industrial-style lighting give the room plenty of character, while the mix of teal paintwork, wooden shelving and brewery-themed artwork adds colour and interest throughout. Seating is spread between the main bar area and a number of smaller snug-style spaces, creating comfortable spots for both conversation and a quiet drink. A large feature clock and fireplace add further character, while the busy atmosphere reflects its popularity with locals. Outside, seating is available at both the front and rear, providing extra space to enjoy a drink when the weather is favourable.
A great selection of 4 cask ales available on the bar to choose from along with a number of keg options. I went for STRICTLY COME DAMSON by 3PS Brewery, a sweet damson milk stout with notes of chocolate, dark fruit and a smooth, creamy finish.
The Alfred
My next visit in Burton was to The Alfred Burton. The Alfred was built during the 1860s and has been part of Burton upon Trent’s pub scene ever since. This distinctive double-fronted terrace pub became the brewery tap for Truman’s Burton brewery, serving workers and local residents throughout the brewery’s years in the town. The connection lasted until Truman’s Burton brewery closed in 1971, and reminders of that history can still be found inside the pub today. Following the brewery’s closure, the pub passed through several owners before being purchased by Burton Bridge Brewery in 1996. Its long association with two well-known brewing names makes The Alfred an important part of Burton’s rich brewing heritage and pub history.
Inside feels like a traditional local that offers plenty of different spaces to settle into. Exposed brickwork, wood panelling and warm lighting give the pub lots of character, while the split-level layout helps create distinct seating areas rather than one large room. A mix of tables, chairs, bench seating and comfortable armchairs provides plenty of choice, with a pool room adding another focal point away from the main bar. Large windows bring natural light into parts of the building, and the combination of traditional features and more modern touches helps create a welcoming atmosphere throughout. Outside, a spacious beer garden with both covered and open-air seating provides plenty of room to relax with a drink.
A brilliant line up of 5 cask ales to choose from, alongside a variety of keg options. I went for Gone For A Burton by Tower Brewery, a Burton Ale with rich malt character, gentle fruit notes and a smooth, balanced finish.
The Junction
I took a short ride out on the Villager bus from Burton-on-Trent to nearby Stretton to visit Junction Micro Pub in Stretton. Junction Micro Pub was originally opened by brothers Alex and Kevin Dudley in November 2021 as part of their Blythe Brewery venture, which they kicked off in 2017. This spot used to formerly be a Co-Op Shoo and a Hairdressers. In November 2024, Karen and Fraser Chatburn took over, and while you can still find Blythe Brewery beers on tap, they’ve also added selections from other nearby microbreweries. When they first opened, the response from the community was incredible. They thought only a few people would show up on opening night, but over 100 came through the doors!
Inside has a bright and modern feel, with a single open room centred around the bar. Large front windows bring in plenty of natural light, while high tables, stools and comfortable bench seating provide a variety of places to settle in with a drink. The industrial-inspired décor combines exposed brickwork, dark ceilings and metal fixtures, giving the room a distinctive look. Road signs and traffic-themed features run throughout the pub, neatly reflecting its name, with the large Junction logo creating a striking focal point. A particularly fun touch is the pedestrian crossing light above the toilets, which changes from a green man to a red man when occupied.
It was fantastic catching up with Karen when I arrived and spot on quick service from Freya. A fantastic line up of 5 cask ales, alongside keg options and a variety of still ciders. I went for Swarkestone by The Bridges Brewing Company, an English pale ale with peach, citrus and floral notes and a soft, easy finish.
The Waterloo Inn
I next headed out to The Waterloo Inn. The Waterloo Inn has been a familiar part of Winshill for many years and remains one of the area’s best-known traditional pubs. Situated on Ashby Road, it was formerly a Worthington’s house and has long served the local community. During Burton’s brewing era, the route through Winshill was an important link between the town and South Derbyshire, and local tradition holds that brewery dray horses once stopped near the pub on their journeys. Today, the Waterloo continues to combine its traditional character with a strong community focus, making it a well-loved part of Winshill life.
Inside strikes a nice balance between a traditional local pub and a modern social space. The main bar area is open and welcoming, with dark trim, soft lighting and plenty of room for people to gather around the bar. Comfortable booth seating wraps around several corners, creating good spots for a quieter drink, while artwork, books and local posters add a bit of character to the walls. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light during the day, and screens make it a popular place to catch live sport. Outside, there’s a covered seating area at the front and another seating space to the rear, giving plenty of choice when the weather is on your side.
A choice of 5 cask ales on the bar along with a variety of keg options. I went for MILD REACTION by 3PS Brewery, a dark mild with rich malt flavour, hints of chocolate and a smooth, easy finish.
Burton Tennis & Squash Club
My final call in Burton-on-Trent is to Burton Tennis and Squash Club. Burton Tennis & Squash Club has been part of Winshill life for well over a century. The club can trace its roots back to around 1912, when it was originally known as Winshill Tennis Club. In 1921 it moved to its current Ashby Road site, where it continues to operate today. Tennis was the club’s original focus, with squash facilities being added from the early 1970s as the club expanded. The present clubhouse was built in 1980, and the club remains owned by its members and managed by an elected committee. It has long been recognised as an important sporting and social venue within the local community.
Inside has the feel of a welcoming members’ club where sport and socialising go hand in hand. The main lounge is bright and comfortable, with large windows overlooking the courts and letting in plenty of natural light during the day. A colourful patterned carpet adds character, while a mix of tables, chairs and upholstered seating provides plenty of places to relax with a drink. Screens around the room make it easy to keep up with live sport, and the view across the club’s striking purple tennis courts serves as a constant reminder of what the venue is all about.
A fantastic warm welcome from Steve and Heather when I arrived and it was great chatting to you both. It topped off an amazing day out. A choice of 2 cask ales on the bar, alongside a range of keg choices. I went for Ale To The King by Tower Brewery, a strong ale with rich malt flavour, gentle fruit notes and a smooth, full-bodied finish.
Micropub Adventures 