It’s not just a hotel, it’s a serene, green staycation machine!
North Staffordshire may have been somewhat overlooked as somewhere for a UK staycation, but this luxury venue – scattered across 70 acres of stunning gardens is helping to change all that...
IF YOU’RE searching for pure escapism, mixed with a trip to the Potteries, the thrills of Alton Towers and the Peak District National Park, The Tawny hotel, on the sprawling Consall Hall Estate near Wetley Rocks offers the perfect base.
It has proved exceptionally popular with couples looking for romance and relaxed decadence since first opening in 2021. But now The Tawny – known for its deconstructed design with 34 rooms on offer – is widening its appeal to families and larger parties with the launch of three luxury lodges.
The multi-million pound site comprises of a series of accommodation types, including shepherd’s huts, secluded cabins, treehouses and waterfront boathouses. They are dotted among rewilded gardens and woodland, filled with follies and lakes.
Now bigger groups of up to eight can enjoy a break in the Fledglings lodges. One property – The Kestrel – boasts a games room and private bar with their own outdoor heated pool. It had its first bookings over the the festive season and costs from £800 per night.
Meanwhile, the Falcon Farmhouse also sleeps eight and has its own plunge pool and outdoor entertaining area. It is due to open in the spring. Finally, a third as yet unnamed property is due to welcome the first guests in spring 2025.
Those lucky enough to stay can book experiences such as private yoga sessions, a Kombucha workshop with foraged snacks, an abstract painting and mixed media class, mindful stargazing, or even Raku Pottery.
On top of this, there’s a heated outdoor pool, free bike hire to explore the grounds, and spa treatments.
A Tawny spokesman said the new rentals had been designed to feel like
an extension of the hotel. He added: “Each property is individual, yet all are beautifully designed taking inspiration from the natural surroundings, bringing a sense of the outdoors in; each property features an outdoor bathing opportunity.”
The Tawny is spearheaded by Fran and William Scott-moncrieff and Ben and Sarah Reeves. They took it on to create an economicallyviable and sustainable future for the gardens. Before their ownership, the site was the home of engineer, William Podmore.
He spent 50 years transforming the gardens, which date back to 1246. The hotel is also keen to stress its eco-credentials with a tree planted for every Fledgling booking made. In addition, 108 solar panels and solar batteries have been installed on site, with 14 EV chargers for guest use.
It aims to generate enough energy to power a large proportion of the day-to-day operations with a 20-ton decrease in carbon emissions.
Other sustainable initiatives include Michelin-style fine dining restaurant The Plumicorn, which boasts seasonal menus based on food and drink primarily sourced within 30 miles of the hotel.