Attractions and Places To See around Walton Upon Trent - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Walton Upon Trent include a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural points of interest. Situated within the National Forest in South Derbyshire, the area features the River Trent and offers various outdoor activities. Visitors can explore sites ranging from ancient churches to modern recreational areas. The region provides a diverse range of experiences for those interested in history, nature, and family-friendly outings.
Best attractions and places to see around Walton Upon Trent
- The most popular attractions is Moira Furnace and Canal, a historical site that served as inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien's Mines of Moria. It features a visitor center, museum, and children's play area, with footpaths leading to nearby woodlands.
- Another must-see spot is Conkers Waterside, a lake area within the National Forest trails. Visitors can expect outdoor walks, an adventure playground, cafes, and indoor adventure areas, making it suitable for families.
- Visitors also love Ferry Bridge, a Victorian footbridge over the River Trent. This semi-suspension bridge, reputedly the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design, replaced a ferry service that had operated since the 13th century.
- Walton Upon Trent is known for its historical sites, natural features, and outdoor activities. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including ancient monuments, riverside walks, and family-friendly outdoor spaces.
- The attractions around Walton Upon Trent are appreciated by the komoot community, with 95 upvotes and 61 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Moira Furnace and Canal
Highlight • Historical Site
This furnace as well as having good free parking a visitors centre, museum and childrens play area is also the inspiration for one of the key locations in perhaps the greatest fantasy novel of all time; The Mines of Moria in JRR Tolkien The Lord of the Rings is based directly on the mining town of Moira.
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Fradley Junction
Highlight • Structure
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Ferry Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton.
The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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National Memorial Arboretum
Highlight • Natural
A church service takes place in the Millenium Chapel of Peace every morning at 11am, when the Last Post is played. The arboretum is open from 10am - 4pm. You can find more information here: thenma.org.uk
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Conkers Waterside
Highlight • Lake
Conkers is in the National Forest and sits on several of the National Forest trails and other footpaths. The Conkers Circuit (5m) is a favourite of mine for a gentle morning stroll.
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Tips from the Community
A great place to walk and a visit to waterside is a must in the Sun
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The canal is a lovely place for a walk, especially on a sunny day when the water reflects beautifully. There's a large forest area adjacent to the canal, with trails leading back to the path. You'll also find a museum, some small shops, and public restrooms. It's a great place for a day out, whether you're looking for adventure, walking the dog, fishing, or just grabbing a bite at the cafe!
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lovely walk. donisthorpe woods great for pushchairs etc. path to oakthorpe walkers only
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Fradley Junction, where the Coventry Canal meets the Trent & Mersey Canal, hosts a great little café over-looking the canal, with facilities in the courtyard. A pub, nature reserve and action at the canal locks make this a great place to have refreshments after your run. Can get a little busy due to location.
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Ferry Bridge is a pretty Victorian foot bridge over the River Trent. Built to replace a small ferry service that had operated at the same site since the 13th century. and gifted to the town by brewing magnate Michael Arthur Bass, later Lord Burton. The bridge is a "semi-suspension" bridge, of which this is the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design.
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The Ferry Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the River Trent. It was opened in 1889 and replaced a small ferry service that had run since the 13th century. It's a semi-suspension bridge and was the only one of this design to be built in Europe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Walton Upon Trent?
Walton Upon Trent is rich in history. You can visit Moira Furnace and Canal, a significant industrial heritage site that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien. Other notable sites include St Lawrence's Church, dating back to 1000 AD, and the remains of Walton Old Hall, ancestral home of the Ferrers family. You can also see Borough Hill, an Iron Age hill-fort.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Walton Upon Trent?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Conkers Waterside offers outdoor walks, an adventure playground, and indoor adventure areas. Moira Furnace and Canal features a visitor center, museum, and children's play area. Rosliston Forestry Centre also provides play areas, meadows, and ponds for family activities.
Where can I enjoy nature and outdoor activities near Walton Upon Trent?
The area offers plenty of natural beauty. You can walk along the River Trent, especially around Ferry Bridge. Conkers Waterside is part of the National Forest trails, ideal for walks. Rosliston Forestry Centre has woodlands, meadows, and a fishing lake. For more extensive natural landscapes, Dovedale, with its famous stepping stones, is a short drive away.
What kind of walking routes are available in the area?
There are various walking routes to explore. You can find easy loops like the 'Path Section loop from Walton-on-Trent' or more moderate options such as 'The Riverside loop from Walton-on-Trent'. The Ivanhoe Way also offers attractive circular walks around the village. For more details, check out the hiking guide for Walton Upon Trent.
Can I find cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?
Absolutely. The region provides a range of cycling routes. Easy options include the 'Washlands and River Trent – The Black Horse Pub loop' or the 'Trent and Mersey Canal Towpath – Fradley Junction loop'. For more challenging rides, consider the 'Bridle Path – Dunstall Cross Scenic Road loop'. Discover more in the cycling guide for Walton Upon Trent.
Are there any unique bridges or architectural sites to see?
Yes, the Ferry Bridge is a unique Victorian semi-suspension footbridge over the River Trent, reputedly the first and only one of its kind in Europe to be built to this design. Walton-on-Trent Village Hall is also an excellent example of the Arts and Crafts movement style from 1920.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' spots to visit?
Consider exploring Glenfield Arboretum, a heavily wooded area with a small lake and abundant wildlife. Stelle Way Meadow is maintained as a wildflower meadow, supporting local wildlife. For a glimpse into the past, visit the consolidated fragment of Walton Old Hall.
Are there places to learn about industrial heritage?
Definitely. Moira Furnace and Canal is a prime example, offering a visitor center and museum detailing its history. Nearby, Claymills Pumping Station is a restored Victorian sewage pumping station providing a fascinating look into industrial history.
Where can I find refreshments or places to eat after an activity?
Several spots offer refreshments. Fradley Junction has a café and a pub overlooking the canal. Moira Furnace and Canal also has a café. Barton Marina is a modern development with a pub, restaurants, and retail units, perfect for a post-activity meal.
Is there a place to reflect on national history or remembrance?
The National Memorial Arboretum is a significant site dedicated to remembrance. It features over 30,000 trees and 350 memorials, honoring those who died in conflicts, along with exhibition galleries for learning more about Britain's military history.
What are the options for mountain biking trails?
Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails around Walton Upon Trent. Options include the 'Conkers and Ashby Woulds Trail loop' which is an easy ride, or the more moderate 'From Conkers trails to Hicks Lodge loop'. You can find more routes in the MTB Trails guide for Walton Upon Trent.
Are there any attractions that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Ferry Bridge is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the views over the River Trent. Many of the paths around Moira Furnace and Canal and Rosliston Forestry Centre are also generally accessible.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions here?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of places like the National Memorial Arboretum. The family-friendly facilities at Conkers Waterside and Moira Furnace are also highly rated, especially the outdoor walks and play areas. The unique design of Ferry Bridge is also a popular highlight.
Most popular attractions around Walton Upon Trent
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