Burton Tennis & Squash Club

A proper hidden gem in every sense,  I must have driven past it hundreds of times without the faintest idea it was there. Tucked away almost opposite the Waterloo Inn on Ashby Road, the Burton Tennis & Squash Club reveals itself only to those curious enough to look twice and it’s all the better for it.

Established over a century ago, this family-friendly racquet sports club quietly blends sporting heritage with something Burton does best: excellent beer.

“Over the past 35 years we’ve built a reputation for keeping and serving great cask ales,” says BTASC’s Dave Hughes. “That’s been recognised with CAMRA awards, which we’re incredibly proud of. Bass is our best-seller, with carefully chosen guest ales alongside and for BAT, we’ll be pouring Tower Brewery’s Ale to the King.”

Step inside and you’ll find a bright, welcoming clubhouse where the atmosphere is as easy-going as the pint is good, a place where tennis whites and pint glasses sit comfortably side by side. There’s a solid range of lagers and cider too, but it’s the cask that takes centre stage.

And if the sun decides to play its part? Even better. The club’s sun deck overlooks the courts, making it a perfect spot to settle in with a pint as the light lingers into the evening.

“We’re delighted to be part of the BAT,” Dave adds. “It’s growing year on year, celebrating cask beer and the long-standing pubs and clubs that make Burton special. We’re proud to be part of that journey.”

Pair it with a BAT visit to the Waterloo Inn and discover a spot that’s been hiding in plain sight all along, a little off the beaten track, but absolutely worth finding.