Hello, I’m Chrys Smedley, Chair of the Burton on Trent u3a.
Welcome to Burton on Trent u3a
Nestled on the banks of the River Trent, Burton upon Trent is a town steeped in history and famed for its brewing heritage. But beyond the hops and heritage, it’s a vibrant community full of character, curiosity, and connection.
As Chair of Burton-on-Trent u3a, I’m proud to say our town offers the perfect setting for lifelong learning and friendship. Whether its charming market streets that draw you, its proximity to the beautiful Staffordshire countryside, or simply the warmth of its people, Burton has something for everyone.
Our u3a is here to help you make the most of it. We welcome anyone no longer in full-time employment who wants to stay active, explore new interests, and enjoy life in good company. With over 40 interest groups and a calendar full of events, there’s always something happening—and always someone to share it with.
If you’re new to the area or looking for a fresh start, come and join us. You’ll find a friendly face, a shared laugh, and a place to belong.
Learn, Laugh, Live with Burton-on-Trent u3a.
So, Who are We and What do We Do?
We are a local charity based in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, dedicated to providing opportunities for people who are no longer in full-time employment to stay active, connected, and curious.
Registered Charity No. 1146122
Our mission is simple: to encourage lifelong learning and participation in informal, enjoyable activities across a wide range of interests. Whether you're into history, walking, languages, crafts, or simply good conversation, there's something here for you.
As we like to say: Learn, Laugh, Live!
New members are always welcome. Whether you're looking to explore a new hobby or meet like-minded people, we’d love to have you join us.
What We Offer
- A friendly, inclusive community of people who enjoy learning new things, staying active, and making friends.
- A wide variety of interest groups, meeting in local venues or members’ homes.
- No limit to the number of groups you can join.
- More than Twice-yearly Talk & Tea General Meetings, featuring guest speakers on fascinating topics.
- Social events including quizzes, an AGM, and a festive Christmas Party.
- Day outings and holidays
Founded in April 2011, our u3a welcomes members from Burton and the surrounding villages. There’s no age limit—just bring your enthusiasm and a bit of spare time.
Are you ready to make a real difference in your community—and have fun doing it? - Burton on Trent u3a needs volunteers like you!
About the u3a Movement
The u3a (University of the Third Age) is a UK-wide, membership-based movement for people who are no longer in full-time employment and are looking to lead an active, engaging, and fulfilling life.
Membership is open to anyone who has moved beyond the first age of childhood and the second age of work and family responsibilities. There are no qualifications required—and none awarded. What matters is curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to share.
Each local u3a is independently run, offering a wide variety of interest groups and activities. These range from academic subjects to recreational pastimes, all driven by members sharing their own knowledge, skills, and experience. It’s a self-help learning community where everyone contributes and benefits.
A Brief History
The u3a movement began in the UK in the early 1980s, inspired by a group of academics in Cambridge. While its roots are educational, today’s u3a is far removed from formal academia. It’s about learning for pleasure, not for qualifications.
Now, with over 1,000 local u3as across the UK, the movement continues to grow—bringing people together to learn, laugh, and live.
Interest Groups
Our u3a features over 50 Activity and Interest Groups, each run by dedicated volunteer leaders. These groups, meeting monthly, bi-monthly, or weekly, offer activities and outings for members with shared interests across Burton.
Are you ready to make a real difference in your community—and have fun doing it? - Burton on Trent u3a needs volunteers like you!
What Groups do we have?
At Burton-on-Trent u3a, our groups cover a wide variety of interests to suit all tastes and abilities. You’ll find:
- Physical activities like walking, hiking, and table tennis
- Practical hobbies such as craft and DIY
- Traditional subjects including Science, Technology, and Languages
- Heritage & Performing Arts including Folk music, Jazz music and Group singing
We’re always expanding. If you have a passion or skill that isn’t yet represented, we’d love your help to start a new group. Just speak to our Groups Coordinator—we support members who want to lead or suggest new activities.
Whether you're looking to stay active, learn something new, or simply meet like-minded people, there's a group waiting for you.
Trips, Visits and Holidays
A big favourite with our members are the many organised day trips to places of interest within a couple of hours drive of the town, using a local coach tour provider.
We try to cater for varying tastes and budgets, and almost always incorporate an educational or historical element, but most of all try to create a sociable and fun time together for all of our trippers.
Come and Meet Us
Coffee Mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at Caffe Centro in Cooper's Square between 10:00 and 11:30am. Meet your friends there or come and make new ones.
People interested in learning more about the u3a movement are welcome to attend.
Events (meetings, outings, and other events)
See the Events page for details of upcoming meetings and Trips:
Interested?
New members can join our Burton-on-Trent u3a by completing the New Member Application Form, sending an email via the Contact page, or calling our u3a phone number at 07512 468591.
Our membership year runs from 1st April.