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Ipstones

Bottom Cottage: Swimming lake, BBQ Hut, Games Room

4.9 · 45 guest reviews
About this space
Welcome to Bottom Cottage – accessible luxury in a stunning Staffordshire setting. Underfloor heating, a log fire and no steps!

With a private lake for wild swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding, glorious views plus al fresco dining in a candlelit BBQ hut it’s the ultimate feel-good stay.

There’s space for four guests with one king-size and one twin bedroom, both with TV/DVDs. This is one of 7 cottages for between 2 and 5, so you can accommodate larger groups by booking extra cottages

The space
There are no steps, inside or at the entrance. Parking is close to the door on an extremely gentle slope and the living room opens straight into the lovely garden!

This warm well-furnished two-bedroom cottage for up to 4 guests is one of 7 luxurious Foxtwood cottages sleeping between 2 and 5, all pet-friendly! They’re located between Caldon Canal and the private wildlife-rich lake where guests love to swim – boats and kayaks provided!

Bottom Cottage is open plan with comfortable seating, a dining area with a view and Freeview TV – ideal for cosy evenings with the log fire and underfloor heating, Wifi, books and board games. There’s a well-equipped kitchen with oven, hob, microwave, kettle, coffee-maker, toaster, dishwasher and fridge/freezer plus a washing machine, dryer and iron. Chemical-free spring water is sourced from Foxtwood’s own spring.

One bedroom has a king-size double bed and ensuite and the second has two single beds. Both have TVs & DVD players so you can watch films in bed!

There are two well-appointed bathrooms. The main bathroom has a walk-in shower and both the bath and shower have grab rails for stability. The toilet has transfer space alongside and fold-down arms.

Enjoy uplifting views – swans, ducks and gorgeous greenery. Just outside is a lovely garden with woodland beyond and a table and chairs ready for drinks and al fresco dining! The candlelit barbecue hut also has great views plus a dining area and firepit.

If you are holidaying with a larger group you may like to book Seventh Heaven along
with Bottom Cottage and have the whole end of the building to yourselves. There’s
an interconnecting staircase and plenty of space for readers, game players and
chillers out!

Foxtwood offers lots of activities – boats, kayaks, swimming, paddleboarding, covered table tennis and table football, a magnetic dartboard, small scooters, a trampoline, swing and slides, swingball … plus candlelit barbecues. There’s a piano in the communal games area, which is shared with other guests.

The property is also the proud receivers of the Staffordshire Environmental Quality Mark
The SEQM award is an official award that is given by Staffordshire County Council and Destination Staffordshire - a local government authority and the main Staffordshire tourist organisation. The award is official recognition of what we are doing for the environment and people, both globally and in Staffordshire. As an SEQM award holder, this property is considered a trusted custodian of Staffordshire.
The EQM award scheme has also been validated by VisitEngland!

Guest access
Free parking on the premises

Electric vehicle charger

Pet friendly

The BBQ pit can be booked from 5pm to 10pm for £30. The fee includes a bucket of charcoal and a trug of logs sufficient for a group of up to 6. Extra charcoal and logs can be purchased at £10 each. If the pit isn’t booked you are welcome to picnic and relax there without charge.

You can accommodate larger groups by booking two or more cottages. No stag or hen parties, please.

Foxtwood is a great base for exploring the Victorian and industrial heritage of the Potteries

Festival Retail Park ‒ 11.4 miles, 27 min

Port Vale FC ‒ 12.3 miles, 30 min

Other things to note
No Stag or Hen parties please

Animals
There are friendly dogs on site and you are also welcome to bring two furry friends
We do have some doggy rules: dogs on leads in communal areas. No dogs to be left alone in cottages. Poops to be cleared up please and thank you!

Neighbourhood
Where you’ll be
Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom

Country Retreat

4 Guests

2 Bedrooms

1 Bathroom

Exclusive lowest price — only when you book direct

Midweek £142/nt · Weekend £267/nt

+ £60 cleaning fee · Select dates for exact price

Minimum stay: 1 night

Check-in after 16:00 · Check-out before 10:00

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GUESTS
PETS

No extra guest fees — the price is the same for any party size up to 4 guests. Please include everyone staying; bookings cannot exceed this maximum.

Accommodation £0.00

Discount £0.00

Cleaning fee £0.00

Total £0.00

Pets welcome (max 2) No smoking No parties

Free cancellation up to 10 days before arrival.

FEATURES

Wifi
TV
On site parking
Garden
Patio/Balcony
Outdoor table and chairs
Shower
Bath
Woodburning Stove
Coffee Machine
Oven
Washing Machine
Dishwasher
Microwave
Iron
Hairdryer
Tumble dryer
Detached
Firepit
BBQ
EV Charger
Pool Table

BED LAYOUT

Sleeps 4 2 bedrooms 3 beds

Bedroom 1

Double Bed

Bedroom 2

Single Beds

45 verified reviews

(37 reviews)
(8 reviews)

All reviews from verified guests

5.0/5
Really lovely space, the lake was amazing and the people were so helpful with responding to our questions and very very quick! Great experience and want to go back!
8.0/10
Positive: I like the cottage and the lake I wish I got to see more though but the charger worked for the car .
My daughter liked the trampoline and they had a football table which was good.
Negative: I didn't see anyone that worked there and when I wanted to cancel all I got was a AI person talking to me. Told me to cancel with booking.com but I wanted to make sure I would get a full refund before I cancel but I couldn't get a definite answer. I tried phoning the person to ask where to go but no answer I also tried ringing many times too.
10.0/10
Brilliant holiday cottages to travel with families.
Positive: The property was really spacious and we weren’t expecting so much lovely outdoor space! The whole area is gorgeous with plenty to do. We’re already checking dates to come back again. The host was extremely helpful and clearly really care for their guests. They had everything you need for a brilliant holiday.

Booking the bbq hut with our friends for the first night was a highlight- it’s absolutely perfect! With glorious views. Just maybe take paper plates up.
Negative: There was nothing to dislike
5.0/5
Bottom cottage at Foxtwoods was a beautiful stay for us. Clive and Alice keep their grounds very well and it was a joy and privilege that they shared it with us. My children and I particularly enjoyed the bbq hut and kayaks. I loved the peace and tranquility. It was close to so many places to visit and Clive and Alice were very friendly to any questions I had. I would definitely recommend and likely to return.
5.0/5
Absolutely beautiful location and so peaceful.
Hosts were responsive to every question and query we had.
Property was furnished lovely and had everything we needed with a well equipped kitchen with pots, pans, cutlery, plates etc.
We even managed to light the fire in the evening when it got chilli outside.
Loved the fact the main bedroom had its own en-suite bathroom.
Got talking to the owner who was super helpful giving us some history on the place and pointing out all the local attractions nearby. It was a lovely peaceful weekend, just as I wanted to relax, chill and catch my breath after finishing chemotherapy.
A must place to stay.

My only criticism would be the early checkout at 10 am if that was pushed to maybe 11am it will give a little more breathing space and not so much of a rush in the morning.
However they did allow an early check-in which was greatly appreciated.
5.0/5
We've just returned home from a wonderful stay at Bottom Cottage. We chose the cottage because it was on one level so perfect for us, our daughter, son in law and baby grandson. We requested a high chair and travel cot and both were at the cottage on our arrival. The cottage is comfortable, spacious and in a fabulous location. We all commented that the listing did not do the surroundings justice. The view from the cottage was amazing and we loved sitting in the garden looking out over the water. Our grandson also thoroughly enjoyed watching and listening to the birds in the back garden. We used the laundry facilities on two occasions and found them to be very handy especially with a 10 month old in tow! We paid a visit to the local pub the Fox and Goose which was recommended, and had a delicious meal - definitely worth a visit. We will definitely visit Foxtwood Cottages again and would have no hesitation in recommending the accommodation to our friends and family.
5.0/5
Lovely place. Would highly recommend to people if they are looking to relax in and around nature. Very calm and subtle place. Clean and tidy
5.0/5
We had an incredible holiday at The Travel Fox’s cottage!

The location is wonderfully peaceful, offering a serene escape. The cottage itself was immaculate and equipped with everything we needed in the kitchen. The outdoor playground and game room provided endless entertainment for the kids.

We also enjoyed the nearby lake, which was another great option for fun. However, the highlight for my children was definitely the front trampoline!

Sam was an exemplary host, always available with thoughtful suggestions and quick responses.

We will surely be back for another visit, and I highly recommend booking a stay here if you're seeking a beautiful retreat in nature that’s both tranquil and away from the crowds.

Silvia.
5.0/5
I would highly recommend staying here, we had a wonderful break away. It's a great location and children had a top time. Thanks again for having us
5.0/5
Great place to stay, would recommend! Our 3 year old loved the games room abs trampoline. Many thanks!
4.0/5
lovely stay! loved the surrounding area and local amenities. very warm apartment and as expected
5.0/5
Fantastic place to stay.

Super clean. Great beds bedding and towels. All On one level great for those not good on their feet. Kitchen items of good Quality. Robins great tits blackbirds all to be seen in the garden next to the canal. Plenty to do nearby. Lovely and peaceful will book again. Best stay in ages with a great host. My advice Book it and enjoy.
10.0/10
Positive: Fantastic views and beautiful lake. Dog friendly and homely.
10.0/10
Positive: Very comfortable and clean
5.0/5
We stayed in cottage 6 for Christmas/ New Years time (4 nights) with 2 kids and a dog. The cottage was just what we needed. Spacious and clean with all the amenities we needed. The kitchen was really well stocked which meant we could cook lots of meals with ease. Sooo much storage too. Like a home from home. The beds super comfy, pillows to die for. The showers lovely and hot and we appreciated the heated floors. Great enclosed garden and then little park and games room for the kids which was a hit. The only slight issue we had was one of the toilets plumbing wasn’t great and backed up very easily. Other than that we had a wonderful stay. Lots of lovely walks right from the door. Kid friendly and lots of lovely views. The wood burner was also a welcomed treat. Thank you. We will be back
5.0/5
Excellent location and stay. Can’t fault the place at all and had a wonderful time away.
5.0/5
Amazing people to communicate and fast and well responded help.
5.0/5
We had a great stay here. A lovely quiet place with great amenities. Whole place was very clean and we very much enjoyed the fireplace. They were very helpful with any questions that we had, always replying very quickly. They were also very helpful with queries we had about our dog and was very accommodating.
Would highly recommend staying here.
5.0/5
Fantastic place! Highly recommended! Exceptional communication from the hosts. Lovely cosy cottage with beautiful grounds to walk around. Perfect place for families. We will definitely be back soon!
5.0/5
Our stay at Foxtwood Cottage was absolutely wonderful. The cottage is beautifully maintained, spotless, and filled with thoughtful touches that make it feel like a true home away from home. The peaceful countryside setting, with stunning views and easy access to scenic walking trails, made it the perfect escape from busy city life.
5.0/5
Beautiful place and great hospitality.
10.0/10
Lovely location- great house that offered everything we needed!
Positive: Location, facilities offered.
Negative: Nothing
5.0/5
Nice location and peaceful.
5.0/5
We had an amazing stay even though a couple of days rained it was still picturesque and peaceful.
It was a lovely cottage that we all felt right at home the moment we walked in, even the dogs, who settled straight away. On the rainy days it was made better with watching a film with the log fire going.

It was so nice for my daughter and her friend to be able to go out on the lake and paddle board with the swans and ducks and just able to run about and be free.

We will definitely be going back!
10.0/10
Fabulous - 10/10
Positive: We loved everything about it, from the fantastic cottage and grounds, to the walks etc on the doorstep. Had a lovely, calming and relaxing weekend in a fabulous location. We wished we were there longer, loved it and will defo be back 💯
Negative: Na
5.0/5
Thank you for a wonderful stay, we had a great time. The location and facilities on offer were fabulous, my children aged 8 and 13 enjoyed the games room, park, kayaks and tree swings and we loved sitting outside watching the swans!
The cottage had everything we needed and a beautiful garden area to sit and enjoy the sun. My youngest loved your dog!

We visited Thor's Cave, Hetty's tea room and completed some local walks and everyone was super friendly.

The BBQ area is a great addition and we'll worth the additional fee.

We hope to brethren in the future 😊
5.0/5
We had the most incredible stay. We swam everyday and booked a night to use the BBQ which was absolutely magical. The location is immense, so peaceful and tranquil. We went to sleep every night hearing the owls. The cottage was exactly as described. We can’t fault a single thing.
5.0/5
Absolutely lovely cottage and stunning location! The nature surrounding you is perfect and so peaceful. Plenty of walks available right on your door step. The outdoor games for the kids were amazing and the kayaking on the lake brought plenty of fun and giggles. Can’t wait to return!!
5.0/5
I had a fantastic stay at this cottage! The setting was absolutely idyllic — a peaceful lake with swans gliding by, surrounded by woods full of blooming bluebells. A great little play area too! The home itself was lovely, clean, and had everything we needed. I especially loved kayaking on the lake — such a serene experience. The owners were so friendly, I’d highly recommend this place and would happily return!
5.0/5
Stunning place. Stunning views. Was the perfect place for me and the girls to stay the night before my wedding.
Sam communicated well and so much information given before our stay too.
Thank you ☺️
4.0/5
Beautiful location with a beautiful selection of activities and walks around. The owners of the property themselves are also wonderful and kind, as are the staff around the property. Cafe next door is lovely, especially in the summer. Booking isn't with the owners themselves, however, and I did have issues because I requested an early check-in, it was accepted and then when I arrived I was told early check-in isn't possible. Took a lot of back and forth with Airbnb before it was sorted so that tarnished my experience.

Overall, lovely house, great games for the family, great kayaks for the lake and swans with funny personalities.

It would be lovely to have more real, personalised interaction from the property management company as I feel that would've prevented the issue of them approving an early check-in without possibly seeing it and it would've made the interactions feel more human and less like copy-pasted templates.
10.0/10
Lovely stayover and great hosts!
Positive: Lovely place, staff were amazing.
We stayed for a wedding nearby, cottages we’re perfect and we had a great time, thanks
5.0/10
Lovely location and close to alton towers.
Positive: The location was beautiful and very close to Alton towers so this was perfect.
Small play park right outside which was a nice touch
Loved the fact that it has a small games area right outside and a few lovely walks and a wee tea room right across the road. Hosts quick to respond when we had an issue with the kettle.
There was also a forest area which we didn't use but available if you book in advance
Negative: Unfortunately we discovered ants in the property on the kitchen table which we followed out to the patio doors.
We were told that there was a space for each car and on return there was 3 cars parked so we had to park and walk down to the cottage - again not a huge issue but not great. I also found that cottage 6 you have people above you that were loud and not what we expected when booking a cottage. The beds were all clean but it just felt very dusty like they had missed all the lights/shades which kinda made it feel unclean.
5.0/5
We stayed couple of nights and had a good time. It’s spacious for 4 people and can easily spend days exploring nearby walks and spending time next to lake , Our little one enjoyed the trampoline and the game room. Would definitely book again in the future.
5.0/5
lovely canal view from the lounge of Bottom Cottage. We hope to return to be able to make use of the garden early evenings in Summer.
5.0/5
We had the most fantastic stay. Property is in idyllic surroundings, very clean with everything you need included! The only downside was that the bbq was already booked but we went up to look at it and we'll make sure we get it next time! So cute!
Check in was 4pm but we arrived early expecting to just leave the car and go for a walk before getting the keys, however we were welcomed in and given entry early. Going back to the bbq, Clive even said he would set us up with everything we needed for a bbq on the patio if we had wanted it. I cannot give it enough praise and we're hoping to visit again in October if we can work out accommodation for 9 people. Seriously one of the best trips ever. Thank you!
5.0/5
We loved it here , such beautiful surroundings and the cottage is also lovely, clean and has all the amenities you’d need. The host was lovely too. We would definitely recommend x
4.0/5
Very nice place to stay, peaceful area, unfortunately the people above us were a little noisy so if you are a light sleeper its a bit of a downfall but its the luck of the draw. It was very spacious and would return in some warmer weather!
5.0/5
a lovely setting for a peaceful getaway but close enough to stoke on trent to attend the attractions there.
5.0/5
We had a lovely long weekend at Foxtwood Cottages. The highlight for the children was the games room and kayaks on the lake which they were able to use at any time. The highlight for the adults was the fire pit where we spent an evening relaxing and having a BBQ. The cottage itself was cosy and very clean. The owners were always around and very helpful.
5.0/5
What a wonderful stay we had at the bottom cottage. Only 10 minutes drive to Alton Towers which was perfect for me, my wife and four year old daughter. Lovely place with everything you would need for a stay and nice peaceful surroundings. Weather wasn’t the best when we were there but this did not dampen our stay and I would highly recommend the cottages for anyone looking to stay near Alton. Look forward to coming back again in the future
5.0/5
Excellent
5.0/5
We really loved our two nights here,what a fantastic location and property,was super to arrive and our cottage was already waiting open, warm and welcoming.
Definitely be back in the summer 🌞
5.0/5
What a fantastic place! We booked last minute to visit and so glad we did!
A beautiful setting which was brilliant for our three young boys. There’s so much to do in the surrounding areas (we visited peak wildlife park) but also plenty of lovely walks and exploring to do without getting in the car.
Run by a really friendly couple and the accommodation was just as described. Thank you and we will definitely be back!
5.0/5
Last minute booking for my partner's birthday, and what a fantastic place to stay. the location was perfect for local walks. We spent time on the lake in the kayaks provided and the games room kept my son entertained. Clive, the owner let my son play on the tractors (this was the highlight of his weekend).
The firepit/ BBQ was worth hiring out, had the perfect evening sat around the fire.
Sam,from the travel fox was very helpful and respond quickly to any questions I had.
We are already planning to return next year!

What’s nearby

Hand-picked local spots around Bottom Cottage: Swimming lake, BBQ Hut, Games Room — tap a pin for details.

Explore the area around Bottom Cottage: Swimming lake, BBQ Hut, Games Room

Just a short drive from Bottom Cottage puts you within easy reach of everyday essentials and fantastic attractions. The charming Kingsley Station for the Churnet Valley Railway is less than half a mile away, perfect for a scenic day out. For thrill-seekers, Alton Towers Resort is only ten minutes distant, while nearby Longton offers convenient access to shops and services.

Sam’s local picks

Right here at Bottom Cottage we’ve got loads to keep you entertained – take a dip in the swimming lake, have a cosy BBQ in the hut, or challenge everyone in the games room! If you fancy venturing out, the Churnet Steam Railway is just 0.8 miles away, and Dimmingsdale & JCB World are both lovely days out around a 20-minute drive.

Churnet Steam Railway is 0.8 miles 2 min Alton Towers Resort, Waterpark and gardens ‒ England’s largest theme park with 40 rides and attractions including Oblivion, Smiler, Nemesis, Forbidden Valley, Dark Forest, the new Curse of Alton Manor and CBeebies Land 6.7 miles · ~20 min
Dimmingsdale spectacular scenery, haven for wildlife and ramblers with award- winning Ramblers Retreat tearoom 7.9 miles · ~20 min
JCB World factory tour and museum celebrating the world famous diggers plus waterfowl lakes 9.9 miles · ~30 min · 4.6★ · (15,753 reviews)
Uttoxeter Racecourse
Uttoxeter Racecourse 16.4 miles · ~45 min · 4.3★ · (24 reviews) Photo by Ivan Brosnan
Peak District National Park 10.3 miles · ~30 min · 4.8★ · (34,070 reviews)
Thor’s Cave Stone Age Airbnb, natural cavern with stunning views, 10.6 miles, 24 min. The Neolithic burial site Long Row is nearby
Waterworld
Waterworld tropical indoor aqua park with Stormchaser, Cyclone, Hurricane, Nucleus, Family Multi Slide and toddler rides Waterworld offers an indoor tropical water park experience with various slides and pools. 11.6 miles · ~30 min · 3.9★ · (8,244 reviews) Photo by Waterworld
Potteries Museum and Art Gallery the Staffordshire Hoard, largest ever find of Anglo-Saxon treasure plus the world’s finest Staffordshire pottery collection 11.2 miles · ~30 min · 4.4★ · (2,405 reviews)
The Trent; Mersey Canal, walks, cycling and award winning Middleport Pottery attraction 12.6 miles · ~35 min
Emma Bridgewater factory and shop 10.6 miles · ~30 min · 4.4★ · (499 reviews)
The World of Wedgewood best of British design, factory tour and shop, throw your own pot! 13.7 miles · ~40 min · 4.6★ · (15,753 reviews)
Stoke City FC 13.0 miles · ~35 min
Trentham Monkey Forest
Trentham Monkey Forest walk with monkeys, 140 Barbary macaques living wild! Trentham Monkey Forest lets you walk amongst 140 Barbary macaques roaming freely in woodland. 14.5 miles · ~40 min · 4.6★ · (9,829 reviews) Photo by Trentham Monkey Forest
Stafford Castle turrets and keep, re-enactments, herb garden and woodland walk 20.9 miles · ~60 min · 4.4★ · (1,505 reviews)

Where to eat & drink

Guests staying here will find dining options within easy reach; Ramblers Retreat is around a 10-minute drive offering homemade cakes and light lunches, perfect for walkers. For pub fare with canal views, The Lazy Trout is approximately 25 minutes away by car.

  • The Lazy Trout
    The Lazy Trout The Lazy Trout serves delicious pub fare alongside a beautiful canal-side setting. Pub · 4.7★ · (2,813 reviews) · 8.4 miles · ~25 min Photo by Paul Gascoyne
  • Ramblers Retreat
    Ramblers Retreat Ramblers Retreat provides homemade cakes, light lunches & cosy atmosphere for walkers. Café · 4.7★ · (1,563 reviews) · 3.6 miles · ~10 min Photo by Dani Jones
  • The Wayfarer
    The Wayfarer The Wayfarer offers refined dining with locally sourced ingredients in a charming village pub. Gastropub · 4.6★ · (3,871 reviews) · 11.9 miles · ~35 min Photo by The Wayfarer

Things to do

Guests staying here are perfectly positioned for a range of activities within easy reach. Churnet Valley Railway is just 0.4 miles away, offering heritage steam train rides from Kingsley and Froghall Station. For family fun, Alton Towers is approximately 4.3 miles distant, while nature enthusiasts can visit Peak Wildlife Park in around 10 minutes at 2.9 miles.

Getting there & essentials

Guests staying here will find a swimming lake, BBQ hut and games room on site; Longton station is around 20 minutes away by car, as is the Tesco Superstore.

  • Longton
    Longton Longton Station is a transport hub serving regional rail connections. Transit station · 3.3★ · (20 reviews) · 7.7 miles · ~20 min Photo by Phoenix Property
  • Tesco Superstore
    Tesco Superstore Tesco Superstore provides convenient grocery shopping and essential supplies. Supermarket · 4.2★ · (457 reviews) · 6.5 miles · ~20 min Photo by Dean Bromley
  • Well Pharmacy
    Well Pharmacy Well Pharmacy offers healthcare services and prescriptions to the local community. Pharmacy · 2.5★ · (31 reviews) · 6.6 miles · ~20 min Photo by Well Pharmacy

Travel Fox Guides

Things to do in Alton Towers

Local attractions, walks, family days out and insider tips for your stay.

Read our Ipstones town guide → Read the Alton Towers guides →