Lodges in Staffordshire

Embark on a Staffordshire escape where the thrill of Alton Towers meets the serenity of the Peak District. Savour the local Staffordshire oatcakes, a tasty tradition, and indulge in the county's hearty fare after a day of exploring. From pottering around the Potteries Museum to wild escapades at Trentham Monkey Forest, there's a slice of adventure for everyone. Did you know? Staffordshire is home to the only complete Anglo-Saxon hoard ever found. For those seeking a cosy retreat, a family jaunt or a fun trip with friends, opting for a lodge or cabin stay in Staffordshire is a top-notch choice.

Why Take Your 2024 Lodge Break in Staffordshire?

Staffordshire is a gem in the heart of England, with a rich tapestry of industrial heritage and lush countryside. It's a place where the Potteries' smokestacks once stood tall, and now, vibrant arts scenes and outdoor adventures beckon. For 2024, the county is buzzing with the new Staffordshire History Festival, celebrating local lore and legends. Lodge breaks here offer a personal, rustic retreat, a stark contrast to the often impersonal hotel experience. You get the freedom to explore at your own pace, with a cosy base that feels like a home away from home. Staffordshire's uniqueness lies in its blend of cultural sites like the World of Wedgwood, alongside the wild beauty of the Peak District edges.

If you're visiting Staffordshire with kids

Absolutely, Staffordshire is a playground for the little ones! The main attraction is Alton Towers, where thrill rides and family fun await. Drayton Manor Theme Park is another hit, with rides for all ages. Lodges provide space for kids to play and a relaxed environment for family time. Plus, they're often located near attractions or natural spaces, giving you a variety of activities at your doorstep.

1. Comfortable walking shoes for theme parks and trails.
2. Weather-appropriate clothing – it can be unpredictable!
3. Swimwear for water parks or lodge pools.
4. Sunscreen and hats for sunny days out.
5. A backpack for carrying snacks and souvenirs.
6. Any favourite toys or games for quiet evenings in.
7. Camera or smartphone for capturing memories.

Pet Friendly Staffordshire Adventures

Staffordshire is a haven for pets, with many trails and open spaces to explore. You'll find welcoming pubs like The Dog and Doublet in Sandon, where your furry friends can rest by your side as you enjoy a local ale. When booking your lodge, look for ones with enclosed gardens to give your pet a safe space to roam. Also, remember to check for nearby vet services, just in case.

Dog walking ideas in Staffordshire

Route	Distance (miles)	Scenery	Postcode
Cannock Chase Circular	5	Forests and heathland	WS15 2UQ
The Roaches	4	Rugged ridge and rock formations	ST13 8UB
Tittesworth Water	4.5	Reservoir and wildlife	ST13 8SW
Dovedale to Milldale	3	River valley and stepping stones	DE6 2AY
Ilam Park	2.5	Parkland and woodlands	DE6 2AZ

Remember, when you're out and about with your dog, always keep them under control, especially around livestock, and be sure to leave no trace by cleaning up after them.

Romantic Breaks for Couples

If you're looking to fan the flames of love, Staffordshire is your go-to spot for a romantic lodge break. Picture yourself and your partner unwinding in a secluded lodge, perhaps with a bottle from a pamper pack that many lodges offer as an extra treat. For those who fancy a bit of luxury, check out lodges that come with their own private hot tubs – perfect for a starlit soak.

For a memorable evening, consider dining at The Boat Inn in Lichfield, known for its intimate atmosphere and exquisite dishes. And if you're both into a bit of pampering, some lodges offer spa experiences or have partnerships with local spas, so you can indulge in a couple's massage or a relaxing treatment together.

Local Cuisine and Dining Experiences

Staffordshire's local cuisine is hearty and satisfying, with the famous Staffordshire oatcake taking centre stage. For a taste of tradition, visit The Oatcake Boat where you can enjoy this local staple filled with various toppings.

When it comes to pubs, The Dog & Doublet Inn in Sandon offers a great family-friendly atmosphere and a menu that caters to all ages. For couples, The Four Seasons Restaurant at Swinfen Hall Hotel provides a more upscale dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and an impressive wine list.

For a good night out

Staffordshire's nightlife has something for everyone. If you're into real ales and live music, The Post House in Stafford is a hit. For a more eclectic vibe, The Sugarmill in Stoke-on-Trent is a legendary live music venue that's worth checking out.

For those who prefer a quiet evening, the cosy pubs like The Sun Inn offer a relaxed atmosphere and an excellent selection of drinks. User reviews rave about the friendly staff and the warm, welcoming environment.

Fishing

Anglers will find plenty of serene spots for fishing in Staffordshire. Here's a list of some prime locations:

• Blithfield Reservoir - DE13 8ES
• Baden Hall Fishery - ST21 6LG
• Cudmore Fisheries - ST5 5HW
• Weston Pools - ST18 0BA
• Fisherwick Lakes - WS13 8QF

Outdoor Adventures

For adrenaline junkies, Staffordshire doesn't disappoint. Peak Pursuits offers a range of activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Prices vary, but you can expect to pay around £40 for a half-day of watersports.

Another hotspot is Go Ape Cannock, where you can swing through the trees or zip line through the forest. It's open seasonally, typically from February to November, and prices start from about £20 for kids and £33 for adults.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Name	Type	On Offer	Postcode
Affinity Staffordshire	Outlet Shopping	Discounted Brands	ST7 1XD
The Potteries Centre	Shopping Mall	High Street Shops	ST1 1PS
Barton Marina Artisan Market	Artisan Market	Handcrafted Goods	DE13 8DZ
Lichfield Market Square	Traditional Market	Local Produce & Crafts	WS13 6LH
Heart of the Country Shopping Village	Boutique Shops	Unique Gifts & Fashion	WS14 9QR

Whether you're after a romantic getaway, a family-friendly dining experience, a lively night out, a peaceful fishing trip, an outdoor adventure, or a shopping spree, Staffordshire's lodges provide the perfect base to explore all these and more.

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Top lodge breaks for 2024 in Staffordshire

Silver Trees, Staffordshire

Driving Distance: About 13 minutes (6.64 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 5 | Pet friendly? No

What to expect: At Silver Trees, set within the stunning Cannock Chase, guests can enjoy the David Bellamy Gold Award-winning conservation park, complete with roaming wild deer and a private 20-acre woodland nature reserve.

Who will love these lodges? Nature enthusiasts, families, and couples will adore Silver Trees for its serene environment, wildlife spotting opportunities, and proximity to Birches Valley Visitor Centre. The absence of pets ensures a tranquil stay for all guests.

What can you do here? Anything onsite? Onsite, guests can take advantage of the indoor heated pool, tennis courts, and cycling paths. For dining, Rugeley is just 3 miles away, offering shops and pubs for a local taste of Staffordshire.

What's nearby? Nearby attractions include Birches Valley Visitor Centre, with exhilarating outdoor activities (driving time: 10 minutes). For shopping and dining, Rugeley town is a short drive away (driving time: 10 minutes).

Accommodation options: Silver Trees offers a variety of accommodations from the cosy Fawn View Lodge ideal for couples to the spacious Silver Trees Cottage suitable for up to 5 guests. While pet-friendly options are not available, the lodges offer a range of amenities for a comfortable stay.

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Quarry Walk Lodges, Staffordshire

Driving Distance: About 26 minutes (15.46 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? Yes

What to expect: Quarry Walk Lodges offers a secluded retreat within 46 acres of Staffordshire woodland, ideal for romantic getaways or tranquil breaks, with the luxury of hot tubs and a wildlife-rich setting.

Who will love these lodges? Couples seeking romance, families looking for adventure, and pet owners will find Quarry Walk Lodges appealing. The hot tubs and proximity to Alton Towers make it a hit for thrill-seekers and relaxation lovers alike.

What can you do here? Anything onsite? The lodges offer a peaceful woodland for walking, and the covered outdoor hot tubs provide the perfect relaxation spot. Dining options can be found in the nearby towns.

What's nearby? Alton Towers is just a stone's throw away for theme park enthusiasts (driving time: 10 minutes), and the Potteries of Staffordshire offer a cultural experience (driving time varies).

Accommodation options: With a range of lodges like the Badger Plus 6 and Owl Garden, Quarry Walk Lodges caters to groups and families, with pet-friendly and hot tub options to enhance your stay.

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Ramshorn Estate Woodland Lodges, Staffordshire

Driving Distance: About 36 minutes (22.22 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 14 | Pet friendly? Yes

What to expect: Located near the Peak District, Ramshorn Estate Woodland Lodges offer a serene escape with luxury lodges, private hot tubs, and a cosy log burning stove, all within a short distance from Alton Towers.

Who will love these lodges? Large families, groups, and couples will enjoy the spacious and modern lodges. Pet owners can bring their furry friends along to some lodges, making it a perfect retreat for all.

What can you do here? Anything onsite? The lodges are self-catering with the luxury of private hot tubs and free Wi-Fi. The surrounding woodland is great for walks and the nearby attractions provide ample entertainment.

What's nearby? Alton Towers is nearby for a day of fun (driving time: 10 minutes), and the Peak District offers endless outdoor activities (driving time varies).

Accommodation options: From the pet-friendly Wootton Pet to the spacious Weaver, Ramshorn Estate Woodland Lodges offers a range of options for different group sizes, all with the added luxury of a hot tub.

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Colliery Lane Lodges, Derbyshire

Driving Distance: About 46 minutes (24.89 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 12 | Pet friendly? No

What to expect: Colliery Lane Lodges offers a tranquil lakeside setting with bespoke lodges, including private hot tubs and easy access to the Peak District, perfect for a relaxing escape or an active holiday.

Who will love these lodges? Those seeking peace and relaxation, as well as adventure seekers, will find Colliery Lane Lodges ideal. The lack of pet-friendly options ensures a peaceful environment for guests.

What can you do here? Anything onsite? Guests can enjoy fishing in the private lake or unwind in the outdoor hot tubs. The lodges are also well-positioned for exploring the local area.

What's nearby? The Peak District National Park is within easy reach for nature lovers (driving time varies), and thrill-seekers can head to Drayton Manor Theme Park or Alton Towers (driving time: 30-60 minutes).

Accommodation options: Colliery Lane Lodges offers a range of lodges and cottages, such as the Colliery Cottage, suitable for larger groups up to 12 guests. Each accommodation boasts modern amenities and a hot tub for a luxurious stay.

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Don't Miss These Fantastic Days Out In Staffordshire

Alton Towers Resort

• Opening Times: Varies seasonally, typically 10am-5pm
• Prices: Online from £34, gate prices higher
• Postcode: ST10 4DB
• Est. time required: Full day
• Nearest parking: On-site, charges apply

Alton Towers Resort is the ultimate thrill-seeker's paradise, but it's also fab for families with younger kids thanks to CBeebies Land. The resort is always adding new rides and attractions; for instance, the recent addition of the Wicker Man rollercoaster has been a huge hit. To beat the queues, consider visiting on a weekday outside of school holidays. And if you're looking to splash out, Fast Track passes are a game-changer.

Phone number: 01538 704096 | Web: www.altontowers.com

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Drayton Manor Theme Park

• Opening Times: Varies, usually 10:30am-5pm
• Prices: Online from £28, gate prices higher
• Postcode: B78 3TW
• Est. time required: Full day
• Nearest parking: On-site, free

Drayton Manor Theme Park is a family favourite, boasting Thomas Land for the little ones and adrenaline-pumping rides for the older crowd. The park's zoo is also a hidden gem, with over 100 species. To make the most of your day, download the park's app for live queue times. And hey, if you're planning a few visits, their season pass offers great value.

Phone number: 01827 287979 | Web: www.draytonmanor.co.uk

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Trentham Monkey Forest

• Opening Times: Feb-Nov, 10am-4pm/5pm (seasonal)
• Prices: Adults £9.00, Children £7.00
• Postcode: ST12 9HR
• Est. time required: 2-3 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site, included in ticket price

Trentham Monkey Forest is unique in the UK – you're walking through a forest with 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques! It's an incredible experience and a must-do for animal lovers. There's no need to rush; the monkeys are used to humans, so take your time and enjoy the encounters. The forest is also a great spot for photography, so bring your camera.

Phone number: 01782 659845 | Web: www.monkey-forest.com

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World of Wedgwood

• Opening Times: Daily, 10am-5pm
• Prices: Varies, factory tour from £10
• Postcode: ST12 9ER
• Est. time required: 2-4 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site, free

World of Wedgwood isn't just for pottery enthusiasts; it's a fascinating insight into British craftsmanship. You can even try your hand at throwing a pot or designing your own piece. The on-site museum is a treasure trove of beautiful ceramics, and the factory tour is eye-opening. For a special treat, book afternoon tea at the Wedgwood Tea Room – it's divine.

Phone number: 01782 282986 | Web: www.worldofwedgwood.com

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Cannock Chase Forest

• Opening Times: Open daily, dawn till dusk
• Prices: Free, parking charges apply
• Postcode: WS15 2UQ
• Est. time required: Varies
• Nearest parking: On-site, pay & display

Cannock Chase Forest is a breath of fresh air for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's perfect for mountain biking, walking, and spotting wildlife. If you're after a bit of adventure, Go Ape offers a treetop rope course that's a blast. To make a weekend of it, check out the lodges in Staffordshire nearby – they're a great base for exploring the forest and surrounding area.

Phone number: 0300 067 4340 | Web: www.forestryengland.uk/cannock-chase-forest

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The National Memorial Arboretum

• Opening Times: Daily, 9am-5pm
• Prices: Free, donations welcome
• Postcode: DE13 7AR
• Est. time required: 2-4 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site, charges apply

The National Memorial Arboretum is a poignant and peaceful place to reflect and remember. With over 300 memorials set in lush gardens, it's both a tribute to those who've served and a beautiful space to explore. They often host events and exhibitions, so check what's on before you go. And don't miss the Millennium Chapel – it's the only place in the country to observe the daily Act of Remembrance.

Phone number: 01283 245100 | Web: www.thenma.org.uk

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Remember, whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a peaceful stroll, Staffordshire has something for everyone. And if you're extending your stay, the lodges in Staffordshire offer a cosy retreat after a day of exploring. Enjoy your adventures!

FAQs

This is our first lodge break, what will it be like?

Expect a cosy retreat with all the comforts of home, but surrounded by Staffordshire's serene countryside. Lodges often come with modern amenities, like fully-equipped kitchens, plush bedding, and sometimes even a private hot tub. It's a chance to unwind, with nature right on your doorstep.

What should I pack when visiting Staffordshire?

Pack for the outdoors – walking boots and waterproofs are a must for exploring the Peak District or Cannock Chase. Don't forget swimwear for hot tub lodges and a good book for those quiet evenings. Essentials like toiletries and a few kitchen basics are also a good shout.

Can you park outside the lodge?

Most lodges in Staffordshire offer convenient parking, often right beside your accommodation. It's super handy for unloading your gear. Check with your specific lodge as some may have a central car park, but they'll always make sure it's not a trek to your door.

What if it rains during my lodge break?

Rain can't dampen the spirit of a lodge break! Stoke up the fire, play some board games, or soak in the hot tub – yes, even in the rain! Local attractions like Alton Towers and Drayton Manor are great rainy-day alternatives too.

Can I get food delivered to my lodge?

Absolutely, many local takeaways and restaurants in Staffordshire offer delivery services. Plus, services like Just Eat or Deliveroo might cover your area. For a local touch, check out farm shops or markets for fresh produce if you fancy cooking up a storm yourself.

Is Staffordshire a good place to visit ‘off-season’?

Staffordshire is a year-round destination. Off-season visits mean fewer crowds at popular spots like The Trentham Estate or Stafford Castle. Plus, lodges are often cosier and more affordable. Winter walks followed by a hot tub session? Yes, please!

Will my hot tub be cleaned before we arrive?

You bet. Lodges with hot tubs in Staffordshire pride themselves on hygiene. Your hot tub will be spick and span, ready for you to dive in the moment you arrive. They're usually checked daily by staff too, so you can soak stress-free.

Are there activities for kids near the lodges?

Staffordshire is a playground for kids. Go Ape at Cannock Chase offers treetop adventures, while The Monkey Forest is a unique walk amongst free-roaming primates. Many lodges also have on-site activities, from swimming pools to mini-golf.

How do I find the best walking routes nearby?

Staffordshire is crisscrossed with trails. Grab a map from your lodge reception or download an app like AllTrails. For a memorable hike, try the Roaches or Dovedale. Local walking groups are also a great shout if you fancy some company.

What local events shouldn't I miss?

Keep an eye out for the quirky Leek Arts Festival or the thrilling Staffordshire County Show. Foodies will love the Stone Food & Drink Festival. There's always something going on, so check local listings or ask your lodge hosts for the inside scoop.

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