Hotel review: The Tawny near the Peak District

If you’re looking for an unforgettable UK retreat that combines nature and privacy with luxury hotel amenities then I know you’re going to love The Tawny Hotel in Stoke-on-Trent. 

Dubbed a ‘deconstructed hotel’, The Tawny has reimagined the traditional hotel experience to excellent effect.

Treehouse-style rooms are scattered across the estate; but you still get all the perks of a hotel experience, including a fine dining restaurant, outdoor pool, spa treatments and room service. 

I spent two nights in a Retreat Room at The Tawny Hotel and here I share my honest experience of staying at this unique getaway.

If you’d rather the video version, have a watch of my YouTube video of my stay (and please do subscribe if you’d like more videos like this!):

Location

Set deep within Staffordshire’s enchanting countryside, the Tawny estate is just a stone’s throw from the impossibly pretty Peak District.

It’s also not far from the ever popular Alton Towers and just 20 minutes from the Stoke-on-Trent train station.

Although it’s a wonderful base for exploring further afield, I suspect you may not want to leave the enchanting embrace of the hotel and its grounds.

The Tawny is an ideal escape that still remains connected to the world. Yet, within its boundaries, the outside world feels miles away.

Rooms

There are a number of different room types to choose from at The Tawny: Treehouses, Huts, Boathouses, Retreats and Lookouts.

Whether nestled high amongst the trees or floating above a placid lake, each lodging feels both intimate and expansive. 

I stayed in one of the gorgeous Retreat rooms, which felt as if it seamlessly blended with the nature outside.

Understated luxury is the name of the game here: think chic design, a private dressing room and an opulent sunken bath.

The super-king size bed was one of the comfiest beds I have ever slept in. I don’t know what magic they’ve done to the mattress but believe me when I say that I did not want to get up!

But the real highlight for me was the private outdoor terrace complete with its own private hot tub (big enough to throw a party in) and an outdoor rain shower.

In fact, every single room on the estate has its own private hot tub which I think is such a lovely touch. 

I have very fond memories of sitting in my dressing gown on the terrace, surrounded by the trees and birdsong, wrapped up in a blanket with a cup of tea and a good book. Now to me, that’s utter bliss.

In terms of getting around the estate, you can call a buggy to pick you up and whizz you to the restaurant, reception or pool.

Perfect if it’s raining or if you’re simply feeling a little on the lazy side (and who can blame you!).

Grounds

The vast 70-acre estate at The Tawny unfolds like a storybook, teeming with history that spans centuries.

Today’s gardens, thriving with life from both flora and fauna, hint at the diligent care invested over decades.

The scattered follies, ranging from crumbling turrets to postcard-perfect bridges, add a real sense of character to the place.

Take the time to explore the large ponds which are teeming with wildlife, or get lost in the magical woodland. 

My favourite spot was the Italian Gardens, a rustic amalgamation of fairytale folly ruins and overgrown flora perched on the side of one of the small lakes.

Punctuated with a modern ping pong table that makes an idyllic and utterly unique spot for a game of table tennis.

Food & drink

The Plumicorn restaurant and Feather Lounge are housed in the open-plan building at the top of the estate.

The space has been designed in a way that ensures it makes the most of the gorgeous views across the grounds. 

Dining at The Plumicorn offers a fine dining treat, where every dish I ordered was simply mouth-watering.

I’d recommend arriving for your dinner reservation early, so you can enjoy a drink in the welcoming bar area. 

On my second night, I couldn’t bring myself to leave the warm embrace of my room, so I ordered room service. It was a cosy evening of snuggling up on the sofa with a pizza and a film. 

Plus, another highlight is that you can help yourself to the complimentary mini bar in the room – another wonderful touch.

In the morning, breakfast is served in the Plumicorn restaurant – or you can opt for a breakfast hamper in your room if you’d prefer breakfast in bed.

Personally, I ate at the Plumicorn both mornings, as I love a hot option and couldn’t resist the appeal of a hearty Full English breakfast!

Final words

The Tawny Hotel is a haven for those seeking the magic found at the intersection of nature and modern luxury. I simply adored the concept of a deconstructed hotel and I really did not want to leave. 

Book your stay here

Looking for more UK hotel inspiration? You may also like:

• 10 gorgeous hotels in Cornwall
• 15 amazing hotels in the Cotswolds
• 20 luxury hotels in London
• 10 best hotels in the New Forest

Or discover my guide to the best treehouse stays in the UK.