Burton’s Bollards: A Colourful, Woolly Trail!
- tilleybancroft
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 2

The streets of Burton upon Trent are looking brighter than ever thanks to a brand-new project from Making Trails: Burton’s Bollards.
This summer, 14 ordinary bollards have been transformed into extraordinary works of art. Each has been lovingly dressed in a hand-knitted or crocheted cover, created by local makers with a shared passion for colour, creativity, and community spirit.
Follow the Trail
To make the most of the project, we’re inviting you to follow the Burton’s Bollards Trail.
✨ There are 14 decorated bollards waiting to be discovered across town.
📍 The trail begins at the Brewhouse Arts Centre, home to the very first bollard cover.
🗺️ You’ll find the full trail map at the centre of the brand-new Burton Echo newspaper (a free publication available around town, including at the Brewhouse).
💻 Can’t grab a copy? No problem — the map is also available to download directly from our website: makingtrails.co.uk/burtonsbollards
A Community Effort
Although the knitting needles and crochet hooks have now been put away for this year, the results of months of hard work are proudly on display. The project has brought together local talent, from experienced crafters to community groups, proving that creativity really can brighten our shared spaces.
Each bollard sock has its own unique personality, and together they form a trail that’s playful, surprising, and guaranteed to raise a smile.
Free Patterns to Try at Home
Feeling inspired? While we’re not asking for more covers right now, you can still join the fun from home. Free knitting and crochet patterns are available to download on our Burton's Bollards webpage. Perfect if you’d like to try your hand at making your own Bollard Buddy as a keepsake project.
Get Involved
Pick up or download the trail map and explore all 14 fun, colourful bollards.
Share your journey on social media with your favourite bollard photos – tag us and use the hashtag #BurtonsBollards so we can see your snaps! Don't forget to follow our Facebook page... @BurtonsBollards
Spread the word by telling friends and family – the more people who join the trail, the brighter Burton will feel.
A Celebration of Burton
Burton’s Bollards is more than just a trail; it’s a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and local pride. By taking a stroll and spotting each Bollard Buddy, you’ll not only discover colourful artworks but also a community that’s stitched together.
So grab a map, head into town, and see how many Bollard Buddies you can find.
Because in Burton upon Trent, even the bollards have a story to tell.
Comments