One of Britain’s most legendary brewery towns is getting a huge revamp – with a new museum, bar and viewpoint

There are few British beer towns quite so legendary as Burton upon Trent. Once known as the brewing capital of Britain, this Staffordshire town has been making malt since the 11th century – that’s right, an millennium of booze-making. And now, the town’s historic brewing quarter is getting a long overdue glow up that will turn it into a proper visitor attraction. 

Burton’s historic Old Brewery Quarter is set for a major revamp, as redevelopment plans submitted last year have been given the green light. The project will see multiple buildings restored and redesigned in order to boost the local economy and attract more tourists.

Sitting right next to the River Trent, the Water Tower (pictured above) was once a key part of Burton’s brewing infrastructure. Now it’s being repurposed as a visitor attraction with a rooftop viewing platform, offering panoramic scenes across the surrounding Staffordshire countryside. A pint with a view? Sounds delightful.

Speaking of water, the town is said to have uniquely mineral-rich water, ideal for brewing the perfect pint. That’s why it was the birthplace of Carling. If you’re partial to the crisp, balanced taste of the famous lager, then you’ll want to stop by Carling House, the former headquarters of the brewing giant Molson Coors. It’s being redeveloped into a snazzy boutique hotel where guests will be able to rest their heads where brewing executives once shaped the industry. 

Elsewhere in the quarter, several iconic buildings are being given a new lease of life. The Town House (a former residence of entrepreneurial brewer William Bass) will be carefully restored, while the Trent House, formerly used for offices, is being reimagined as a buzzing hub for festivals, performances and community events. 

Plus, Bass House, the old family home of the aforementioned brewer, will be reopened as an Events Square with an immersive ‘Brewing Heritage and Social History experience’, complete with interactive exhibits and a working pilot brewery. The site will also hold the Brewery Heritage Archive, making the town’s past easier than ever to explore.

Beer not your thing? Don’t worry, Burton’s revamp will have something for you, too – particularly if you love nature. Developed in partnership with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, the brand new Washlands Visitor Centre will exhibit seasonal wildlife displays, serving as a space to understand and experience the Washlands ecosystem. With a terrace attached to the cafe, you can sip on your coffee while taking in glorious views of the River Trent. 

We don’t know when all of this will be finished as opening dates are yet to be revealed, but the groundworks are due to start early this year.