Travelrific® Travel Journal

Beerseum Delights Visitors

January 19, 2011 8:00 am

By Linda Tancs

At one time Burton on Trent sported 33 breweries; one might say there was a tonic for whatever ales you (yes, pun intended). A short walk from the rail station, the recently opened National Brewery Centre explores the evolution of brewing techniques from ancient times to today. Hundreds of exhibits and rare artefacts display beer brewing techniques, and character performers serving samples of real ales in the Edwardian Bar or shoveling malt bring Burton’s glory days back to life. Adding to the ambience is a collection of vehicles from horse-drawn drays to delivery wagons and special promotional vehicles, such as a 1920s Daimler bottle car that was built to deliver promotional materials to pubs. The Shire horses are on winter holiday until 1 April, but there’s plenty else to evoke the days of old. Buy an annual ticket for unlimited visits.