A trip to Burton Albion offers a quintessential lower-league football experience with modern facilities and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The Pirelli Stadium, home to the Brewers since 2005, is compact, fan-friendly, and a perfect venue for travelling supporters. Situated in Staffordshire, Burton provides easy access for fans coming from surrounding towns and cities, alongside a variety of pubs, eateries, and local attractions to round out the day.
Getting There
Burton is located in East Staffordshire and is easily accessible by train, car, and coach.
- By Train: The nearest station is Burton-on-Trent, approximately 1.5 miles from the Pirelli Stadium. Direct trains run from Derby (20 minutes), Birmingham (50 minutes), Nottingham (25 minutes), and Leicester (40 minutes). From the station, fans can walk (25–30 minutes), take a taxi, or catch a local bus to the stadium.
- By Car: Burton is easily reached via the A38 and A444. Matchday traffic can build up, particularly near the stadium, so pre-booking official car parks is recommended (£5–£10). Street parking is limited.
- By Coach: Away coaches are usually dropped off at the designated away turnstiles, providing safe and convenient access for travelling fans.
Where to Drink
Burton offers a friendly pre-match pub scene, with options both near the stadium and in the town centre.
- Near the Stadium: Pubs such as The Raven and The Red Lion are close to the Pirelli Stadium and welcome away fans. These are ideal for a quick pint before the match.
- Burton Town Centre: About a 15–20 minute walk or short drive from the stadium, the town centre has pubs and bars along High Street and Station Street. The Railway Inn and The Brewers’ Arms offer a lively atmosphere for away supporters.
- Alternative Options: For a quieter pint, pubs along Station Street and the surrounding area are welcoming and less crowded on matchdays.
The Ground: Pirelli Stadium
The Pirelli Stadium is a modern, all-seater venue with a capacity of just under 7,000. Despite its relatively small size, the stadium provides excellent sightlines and a compact atmosphere, allowing away fans to feel close to the action.
- Away Section: Visiting supporters are located in the Pirelli Stand, with an allocation of around 1,000. The stand is fully covered and allows chants and songs to carry well across the pitch.
- Facilities: The concourses are clean and well-maintained, with kiosks selling pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. Alcohol is available in designated areas. Toilets are modern and functional, though queues may form at peak times. Staff are friendly and used to hosting travelling supporters.
Food Options
Burton offers a variety of food options, both near the ground and in the town centre.
- Near the Stadium: Several takeaways sell traditional matchday food such as burgers, chips, and kebabs. The Raven and The Red Lion also provide pub meals for a more substantial pre-match feed.
- Town Centre: Burton town centre has a wide range of restaurants and cafés, including Indian, Italian, and traditional British cuisine. Chains such as Wetherspoons, Greggs, and Subway are also available for quick meals.
- Local Specialties: Staffordshire oatcakes, pies, and meat-and-potato dishes are popular in local pubs and bakeries, providing a hearty start before heading into the stadium.
Making a Weekend of It
Burton is small but has plenty to explore if you’re staying overnight or making a weekend of your trip.
- Nightlife: The town centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants, particularly along High Street and Station Street. The Railway Inn and The Brewers’ Arms are popular post-match venues for away fans.
- Culture & Attractions: Burton is home to the National Brewery Centre, Burton Museum & Art Gallery, and St Modwen’s Church. Fans can also enjoy a walk along the River Trent for a more relaxed afternoon.
- Day Trips: Derby, Nottingham, and Leicester are all within easy driving or train distance. For countryside lovers, the Peak District is around a 40-minute drive, offering scenic walks and stunning views.
Away Day Tips
- Arrive Early: Matchday traffic around the Pirelli Stadium can be heavy, so allow plenty of time to park or catch a bus.
- Drink in the Right Areas: Pubs near the town centre or official away-friendly pubs are safest for pre-match drinks.
- Dress for the Weather: Staffordshire weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and waterproofs if necessary.
- Get Involved: The Pirelli Stand is compact and close to the pitch, allowing away fans to make a noticeable impact with chants and support.
Final Whistle
A Burton Albion away day is a perfect example of modern lower-league English football. The Pirelli Stadium offers clean, comfortable facilities, excellent sightlines, and a compact atmosphere that makes travelling fans feel part of the action. Combined with the town’s friendly pubs, restaurants, and local attractions, Burton provides a well-rounded matchday experience.
From pre-match pints in the town centre, to supporting your team in the away end, to exploring the National Brewery Centre or enjoying a stroll along the River Trent afterwards, a Burton Albion away day is enjoyable, authentic, and memorable. It’s an ideal destination for fans seeking a traditional football outing with a modern twist.

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