Barton Marina
Barton Marina: A Boater’s Haven in the Heart of East Staffordshire
Nestled in the peaceful and beautiful surroundings of rural East Staffordshire, near Barton under Needwood, Barton Marina is a must-visit for boaters seeking a tranquil, well-equipped spot to moor their boats. Located along the Trent and Mersey Canal, Barton Marina offers easy access to some of the UK’s most scenic cruising routes, making it a perfect destination for boating enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for a place to rest during your travels or a long-term mooring location, Barton Marina provides an idyllic setting, full of amenities and surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
Mooring at Barton Marina
Barton Marina is a prime location for boaters, offering both short-term and long-term mooring options. With over 300 moorings available, including residential moorings, Barton Marina provides secure, well-maintained facilities such as electric gates, mains water, and top-notch docking and repair services. The marina features a range of services, including:
- Changing facilities, toilets, and showers
- Docking, repair, and boatyard services
- The Marina Café for a relaxing meal or coffee
Whether you’re staying for a few days or calling Barton Marina your home, everything you need is within easy reach.
Things to Do at Barton Marina
While staying at Barton Marina, there’s much more to explore. The area offers a wide variety of activities to enjoy, both on and off the water.
- Barton Lakes Walk: For nature lovers, take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Barton Lakes. The lakeside walk offers stunning views, abundant wildlife, and a peaceful environment perfect for unwinding after a long cruise. It’s an ideal spot to spend some time outdoors, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside.
- Shopping and Dining: Barton Marina is home to a collection of independent shops and restaurants, perfect for those looking to shop, dine, or enjoy a leisurely coffee by the water. Browse through the Barton Marina Shopping Village for unique gifts, home décor, and artisanal products. Enjoy a meal at one of the many nearby restaurants or cafés, offering everything from casual dining to more refined options.
- The Red Carpet Cinema: Catch a film at the cosy, independent Red Carpet Cinema, just a short walk from the marina. With a range of films on offer, this is the perfect place to unwind after a day of cruising.
- Mug Tug Ashore Paint-a-Pot Studio: Unleash your creativity at Mug Tug Ashore, a local paint-a-pot studio where visitors can create personalized pottery and keep a unique memento from their visit.
- Gallery 3 Art Gallery: For a touch of culture, visit Gallery 3, which showcases contemporary art and offers a chance to explore the work of local and national artists.
Recommended Cruising Routes from Barton Marina
Barton Marina offers excellent access to several scenic cruising routes through some of the UK’s most stunning waterways, making it a great base for your next adventure.
- The Four Counties Ring: One of the most popular canal routes, taking in the beautiful scenery of Cheshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, and the West Midlands. From Barton Marina, you can explore the Trent and Mersey Canal, passing through idyllic towns and landmarks, including Great Haywood Junction, Autherly Junction, and Barbridge Junction.
- Fradley Junction: Just 11 miles from Barton Marina, Fradley Junction is an ideal spot for a quick day trip. Enjoy the beautiful countryside as you cruise along the Trent and Mersey Canal before returning to the marina.
- Penkridge and Stone: For those seeking a longer adventure, take a 55-mile round trip to Penkridge, passing through Great Haywood Junction and Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. This route offers a leisurely pace, ideal for a midweek or weekend getaway.
Getting Here
Barton Marina is easily accessible by both boat and land, making it a convenient destination for boaters from all over the UK.
- By Boat: Barton Marina is located on the Trent and Mersey Canal, and it’s easy to reach by water from various parts of the UK’s canal network. Moor at Barton Marina for a peaceful stay and enjoy its array of facilities.
- By Car: If you’re coming by car, Barton Marina is easily accessible via the A38 and A515 roads, with plenty of parking available on-site.
- By Train: The nearest train station to Barton Marina is Burton-upon-Trent, which is a short taxi ride or bus trip away. From there, it’s a quick connection to the marina for a relaxing stay or day visit.
- By Bus: Barton Marina is served by the Number 12 bus route, which connects the marina to surrounding towns, including Burton-upon-Trent.
Plan Your Visit
With its scenic location, well-equipped marina facilities, and an array of things to do, Barton Marina is the perfect destination for boaters looking to unwind or explore the countryside. Whether you’re planning a short stay or a long-term mooring, there’s something for everyone. Moor your boat, enjoy the surroundings, and explore the local attractions – all while being part of the bustling canal community.
Discover more about Barton Marina, plan your visit, and book your mooring today!