Key facts
- Operator
- Duchy of Lancaster (leased to Bespoke Inns)
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Limited tour days
Pinpoint
Castle St, Burton upon Trent, Burton-on-Trent DE13 9JF
Telephone 01283 812129
A ruin with a notable prisoner - Mary, Queen of Scots was held here on four separate occasions - currently closed for major repairs and due to reopen in summer 2026. Under previous management, reviewers praised long-serving curator Lesley Smith by name for the history presentations that brought the place to life.
Worth the trip
The Mary, Queen of Scots connection - reviewers say the guided history presentation made her imprisonment here feel vivid rather than just a name on a plaque.
Before you go
It's currently closed for repairs with a summer 2026 reopening planned; the site has also been through a change of curator and management recently, so what's on offer when it reopens may differ from these reviews.
Reviewers consistently point to the site's connection to Mary Queen of Scots' imprisonment and knowledgeable guided history as the highlight, alongside good views and a small tearoom. One review flags a risk to opening hours tied to staffing changes, and it's worth noting only ruins remain of the original structure.
Reopening summer 2026 after major repairs
“Fantastic place to visit.. so much history.. my 7 year old daughter loved it. Stunning vistas of the surrounding counties.. well worth a visit. Would love to go back when they have a historic event on too!”— StewBacca, visitor review
