All too often a weekend away can leave you feeling exhausted, but the pace of life at The Tawny offers something entirely different. Things at this rural hotel run a little slower allowing guests the chance to switch off and indulge in nature during the day and return home to unmistakable luxury by night.
This relatively new hotel is tucked away in the heart of rural Staffordshire, eight miles from Stoke on Trent. On reflection, however, the location feels a little irrelevant, because with 70 acres of garden to be explored, there’s really no need to step foot outside the grounds.
We visited in early November, when the grounds were a picture-perfect postcard of autumn. Arriving in early evening darkness, we were treated to a stunning view the following morning when pulling back the curtains.
Room
Unlike some hotel suites, which can feel rather cosy, The Tawny’s was spacious. We stayed in the Hare Bell, a retreat lodge overlooking one of the grounds five lakes. The interior was simple and Nordic inspired, think neutral colour palettes, natural wood elements and a less-is-more approach. The lodge had bathroom, separate dressing room area, as well as a bedroom which extended to a lounge. Oh and baths, two of them.
Our room had a sunken bath fit with bubble jets and LED mood lighting, as well as an outdoor tin bath which on a clear evening, allows you to look up to the stars. The baths weren’t the only things bubbling, the fridge had been stocked with a bottle of prosecco, as well as some prosecco minis, plus cans of local beer. Attention to detail is everything in this hotel.
Food and drink
We stayed for two nights and each evening tried out one of the hotels two eateries; the restaurant and separately the lounge. Both left a good taste in our mouths.
The Plumicorn restaurant celebrates the best local ingredients and offers a seasonal and sophisticated menu. Weeks after eating there I still remember how tasty the fried stonebass was. If, however, you’re seeking something more casual, the bar menu offers tasty sharing plates like charcuterie boards, hummus and pizzas.
The Tawny’s breakfast spread is hearty and generous, perfect for fuelling long walks around the grounds. As well as a gorgeous selection of fruits, juices and pastries, the kitchen offer a hot menu, which boasts brunch classics and local dishes like oat cakes.
To do
Dining aside, there is so much to do at The Tawny; there’s the stunning heated outdoor swimming pool, the various trails around the grounds, including giant games of Connect Four and Chess, as well as bikes and yoga mat hire – all complimentary I should add.
It’s not uncommon for luxury hotels to feel pretentious, and the service a little forced, but the staff at The Tawny were anything but. With buggy service to and from dinner and breakfast each day, you get to chat to the team a fair bit and, by all accounts, they loved the hotel. They also couldn’t do enough to help, whether it was supplying an extra pair of wellingtons or providing an additional board game for the room. It’s a touch that makes the hotel even more welcoming.
In a nutshell
If it’s an escape from the city you’re seeking, I can’t recommend The Tawny enough. Sheltered far away from the hum of sirens and passing traffic you find in cities at night, a break at this hotel offers ultimate peace and quiet, and I can’t wait for my next visit.
Factbox
Address: Consall Lane, Stoke-on-Trent ST9 0AG
Phone: 01538 787664
Website: thetawny.co.uk
