Things to See and Do in Tutbury, Staffordshire

Looking for Somewhere to Go on a Day's Outing? Try Tutbury

Sep 20, 2009 Christine Fadhley

Historical Tutbury village is worth a visit. Boasting a castle that once kept Mary Queen of Scots captive it also has many other attractions for the day tripper.

Tutbury village, located five miles from Burton on Trent on the A511in the beautiful Staffordshire countryside, is an ideal destination for a pleasant family day out or for those who are seeking a venue for a wedding or special occasion.

The village is dominated by the ancient Tutbury Castle which is said to have predated the Norman Conquest. The castle is renown for having been one of the places that Mary Queen of Scots - Queen Elizabeth 1st's rival for the throne of England, was kept prior to her execution. Mary Queen of Scots can be seen in full Tudor regalia at the weekends in Summer. The castle is said to be haunted - a fact that one can check out for oneself by going on the Ghost Tours or night vigils organized in the Castle.

The castle is located on a picturesque knoll that provides expansive views into the Dove Valley and is also the venue for fairs, civil war re-enactments and other events. The new banqueting facility has made it a popular place to hold wedding receptions and other types of gathering.

Glass Blowing at Georgian Crystal

Another favorite visit in Tutbury is the Georgian Crystal glass factory where one can see experts taking the glowing molten glass straight from the furnace and then blowing it into shapes ready to be decorated into crystal glassware fit for any table.

Upstairs one can watch craftsmen grinding the glass shapes with diamond impregnated wheels in order to create the sparkling lead crystal table glassware for which the factory is famous world wide. Celebratory pieces can be made to order and shipped world wide.

To see the glassblowers at work, one needs to visit on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday mornings. Please also note that school parties are welcomed, but these need to be booked in advance.

The Dog and Partridge Coaching Inn

The Dog and Partridge restaurant is a half timbered 14th century building that is steeped in history. Soak up the historical atmosphere whilst dining in front of a crackling log fire.

Georgian Houses, Craft Centres & Antiques

One can stroll down the hill from the Castle into the picturesque High Street, with its "dolls house" Georgian architecture housing some interesting craft shops and antique sellers. In keeping with its reputation as an up market shopping destination, one can also shop for quality fashion wear and wedding gowns. There is also an artisan jeweler who is happy to make pieces to order or to mend/alter existing pieces of jewelery.

The copyright of the article Things to See and Do in Tutbury, Staffordshire in U.K./Ireland Travel is owned by Christine Fadhley. Permission to republish Things to See and Do in Tutbury, Staffordshire in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Historic Tutbury Castle	Ghost Tours & Vigils are Held at Tutbury Castle	Views from Tutbury Castle
Georgian Crystal Glass Bowl	Rare Breeds at Tutbury Castle