In July, we escaped to The Tawny – a super luxury eco-retreat tucked away in the Staffordshire countryside. It’s what I can only be describe as being the dreamiest mini-moon imaginable.
From the moment we arrived at The Tawny, the experience felt calm, clean, and so beautifully curated (and also located). It makes you feel like you’re a world away from everything else, which is exactly the point. There is a big car park located near the reception where you can park for free and after a swift check-in at the main entrance, you are whisked to your room in a silent electric buggy – depending on where you’re located in the grounds. There’s also the option to walk, but I’d say enjoy the Total-Recall type experience. This introduction sets the tone for a memorable stay, where sustainability and ‘serenity’ really do go hand-in-hand.
The Tawny Hotel: Where luxury lives wilder
The Tawny really isn’t your typical countryside hotel. I found that out fairly quickly when looking online for somewhere to rest our bones post-wedding. At first I searched for eco stays, and not surprisingly – this place popped up. For The Tawny, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s genuinely part of who they are. They’re extremely passionate about looking after the stunning landscape that surrounds them. They run their estate off-grid, with a huge 650 kWh battery (that has allowed them to cut emissions by nearly 40%). Alongside this, they support local farmers and FairTrade suppliers, so every choice they make is about doing right by nature. They also plant a tree for every booking, and keep bees on-site to help the local ecosystem thrive. It’s all about creating a luxury escape that’s good for you and good for the planet. You can read more about their sustainability ethos here.
And so, The Tawny itself is a stunning collection of spaces, spread out across the Consall Estate. Each one has been designed to bring guests closer to nature without sacrificing that high-end luxury. You can choose to stay inside Shepherds Huts, Treehouses, Lookouts, Boathouses, or a Retreat – which is what we chose. It’s at the top end of the bookings (£££) price wise, but we don’t regret it. Next time we might try a Boathouse…
We stayed in the Buttercup Retreat and it was pure relaxation from start to finish. You get a key card to use, so you can come and go as you please. The interiors were simply stylish, exceptionally clean and also comforting, with plenty of space to just breathe and relax. The highlight for us? Well, for me… was the outdoor William Holland copper bath. This is where I spent more time than I’d like to admit. I soaked up the bubbles – both inside the bath and via the endless Prosecco bottles – in the morning through to the evening. It’s the kind of detail that makes you feel truly away from it all. I’d go back for this outdoor tub experience alone. If you crave relaxation over itinerary, this really is your kind of place. Here, you can breathe in nature from your balcony, soak in hot water as often as you want, and just be still for a while. The robes are also gorgeously fluffy.
Foodie Heaven: Dining at The Plumicorn
One of the best things about staying at The Tawny is that your booking includes credit to use in the restaurant or for room service, meaning you don’t have to worry too much about extra costs unless you go big on sides and cocktails (which, honestly, is easy to do here). Less than a ten minute walk away from our retreat room, The Plumicorn was also one of the highlights of our stay. The menu spotlights both seasonal and locally sourced ingredients and it caters to all types of foodies, whether you’re looking for fine-dining or just want a hearty and beautifully presented dish.
On our first night, I had the duck, obviously, and it was exceptional. Perfectly cooked, bursting with flavour, and easily one of the best duck dishes I’ve ever had. One the second night, we ordered room-service which is quite possibly one of my favourite things to do, ever. We relaxed and watched Netflix, then I took another bath. Breakfasts were another highlight as they give generous portions, also using locally sourced produce. It’s that slow, indulgent morning vibe that makes you want to linger here just a little bit longer.
Things to do around The Tawny Hotel
While The Tawny is the perfect place to do absolutely nothing other than stare at nature, use the outdoor pool, and completely switch off – the surrounding area also offers plenty for those who love adventure and to explore. You can:
- Wander the countryside trails right on the estate (we did this and it’s gorgeous!)
- Stroll along the local canals
- Visit the Trentham Monkey Forest
- Take a ride on the Churnet Valley Railway
- Visit the nearby Peak District, just a short drive away, to experience its breathtaking wild landscapes
- Or, for thrill seekers, hop over the hills to Alton Towers for a full day of fun and adrenaline
- See the full list of things to do nearby via the website
Final Thoughts: Why you’ll love The Tawny
Our mini-moon at The Tawny Hotel was everything we wanted it to be. Calm, romantic, and effortlessly luxurious. It’s honestly a place that encourages you to slow down, reconnect, do nothing, drink bubbles, bathe in the tub, alongside experiencing local nature. So if you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, planning a couples’ retreat, or if you simply need an escape, The Tawny delivers in every single way imaginable. In a way, I think this place is a form of heaven on Earth. From the eco-conscious touches, to the unforgettable dining experiences – and serene settings – it’s a destination that proves luxury is right on our doorstep.
Book a room at The Tawny Hotel
📍 The Tawny Hotel Details
The Tawny Hotel, Consall Gardens Estate, Churnet Valley, Staffordshire, ST9 0AG
🌐 www.thetawnyhotel.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @thetawnyhotel