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In a Nutshell
A relatively new development alongside the canal marina, offering cafe culture, shops and even a small independent cinema alongside lakeside walks. 
The Waterfront pub with terraced seating areas
Parking and Pooping
The Waterfront development at Barton Marina is just a few hundred yards away from the A38, between Burton upon Trent and Lichfield. It's not well signposted, so initially you need to follow signs to Byrkley Park Centre on to the B5016 and you'll see the sign to Barton Marina pointing to the junction on your left, before the village itself. Having turned left into Barton Turn, the Waterfront entrance is on your right after about 100 yards. You first drive passed the National Forest area, with a lake and parking on your right and carry on to the main development. We normally park in the overflow section behind the Waterfront buildings as this puts you between the Waterfront and the fishing lakes. There is ample parking and the fishing lakes and grassland stretch around the marina complex, so plenty of room for pup. Public toilets are at the top end of the Waterfront development. 
The fishing lakes behind the development are perfect for stretching pups legs
Walkies
On arrival we normally head towards the fishing lakes and give Bella a good walk around the lakes to stretch her legs. It's quite a large area and you have the National Forest area too if you want a more energetic walk. Afterwards, it's a stroll down the Waterfront development, which is pedestrianised and good and wide, so easy walking. There are benches dotted about along the walkway and plenty of bins etc so it's easy to relax and enjoy the views and some people watching. |
Plenty of benches for some people watching in the marina
Keeping the Humans Amused
The Waterfront only has a small number of shops, but they are of good quality and tend to absorb a good hour or so of browsing. You can buy shoes, jewellery, furniture and clothes and there is an excellent farm shop too. There is also an independent cinema and cafe. 
The Apple Tree Coffee Shop and Deli is a popular spot
Chow Time
The Waterfront's main attraction is cafe culture, dining and relaxing and it's a great place to spend a lazy, sunny afternoon. All of the cafe's and bars have pavement seating or terrace areas where pup can sit comfortably and people watch. The Waterfront pub has extensive terracing overlooking the marina as well as a grassed beer garden to the side. The Apple Tree Coffee Shop & Deli sells a wide selection of cakes and snacks and has a popular spot in the middle of the development with seats over looking the marina. At the top of the development the Red Carpet Cinema and Cafe has a large patio area, with comfortable seating and is a good spot if you want a slightly quieter spot to relax in away from the footfall in the main section. Equally the Marina Tea Rooms, separated from the main development has a small garden area for seating and serves all manor of drinks and snacks. You can of course just buy an ice cream and find a bench to perch on! Nearby
Lichfield is just 10 mins drive away and we often combine the two for a day out. Staunton Harold is approx 30 mins drive away and again can be combined for a day out. |