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Clinkum Cottage Swimming Lake, BBQ hut, Games Room

Welcome to Clinkum Cottage – serene luxury in a stunning Staffordshire setting with underfloor heating and a log fire!

Newly renovated and with a private lake for wild swimming, kayaking and boating plus al fresco dining in a candelit BBQ hut this is the ultimate feel-good stay.
With 3 bedrooms there’s space for 5 guests – children love the play area for swingball, trikes and scooters (provided).

Clinkum is one of 7 lovely Foxtwood cottages so you can accommodate larger groups by booking more!

This charming freshly-renovated cottage 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!

With three bedrooms Clinkum comfortably sleeps up to five guests and offers relaxing spacious living with underfloor heating and lovely views from two balconies.
The yard in front of the cottage is ideal for scooters, trikes and swingball!

The large open plan living area includes comfortable seating, a dining table seating
up to 10 guests and a log fire – ideal for cosy evenings with TV, Wifi, books and board games.

There’s a well-equipped kitchen with oven, hob, microwave, kettle, coffee-maker, toaster, dishwasher and fridge/freezer and there’s a free-to-use washing machine and dryer in the building. Chemical-free spring water is sourced from Foxtwood’s
own spring!

One bedroom has a double bed, the second two single beds and the third one single bed. There are two well-appointed bathrooms, one with a bath and a shower and the second with a walk-in shower.

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

If you are holidaying with a larger group you may like to also book Archway Cottage, just below Clinkum.

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.

Foxtwood is proud to hold 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!

Free parking on the premises

Electric vehicle charger
The EV charger is currently working.
Payment is via an app "Voltshare"
Price is 60p /kwh

Pet friendly
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!

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.

As Clinkum is at the centre of the building we ask guests to consider their neighbours below, especially in the evening.

Due to Clinkum’s location, we like to rent it to family groups and so may ask about the composition of your group. We encourage adult-only groups to check out our other lovely cottages!

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

Country Retreat

5 Guests

3 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

Midweek £162/nt · Weekend £293/nt

+ £75 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 5 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

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

Firepit

BBQ

EV Charger

BED LAYOUT

Sleeps 5 3 bedrooms 4 beds

Bedroom 1

1× Double Bed

Bedroom 2

1× Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1× Single Bed

56 verified reviews

(49 reviews)

(7 reviews)

All reviews from verified guests

5.0/5

We spent two weeks here and it was a great base to explore Staffordshire and across to Derbyshire too. Returning to a quiet peaceful home from home. There was plenty to do at the site for the days we didn't go far. Taking the canoes out on the lake was alway fun.
We would absolutely return at a later date.

10.0/10

Thoroughly recommend, would definitely stay again if in the area
Positive: We already have fond memories of our stay here! Location was just lovely, great views on all sides from the apartment and fantastic walking opportunities all around. We stayed in a first-floor apartment, reached by its own outdoor staircase. Well-equipped kitchen with dishwasher, decent-sized comfortable cosy bedrooms, large bathroom (plus ensuite for master bedroom). Tastefully understated country/farmhouse-type decor throughout. Generous provision of towels, washing-up supplies, toilet paper, etc. Outdoor toys/games selection very good.
Negative: The swimming lake was more of a swan-infested lilypond at the time of our visit - very picturesque but not particularly inviting for actually swimming! So a little disappointing for the member of our party who had been looking forward to that.
There could perhaps have been more multiplayer board games available in the apartment for evenings/rainy days - the selection seemed to be mostly jigsaws. And some of the books on the shelf were super outdated and not in an interesting way (trivia book from the 70s for example!).

5.0/5

Lovely Barn complex, walking distance to Hettys Tearooms. Enjoyed our swim & kayak in the lake.

5.0/5

wow!!! what an amazing place. One of the, if not top, Airbnb's I have stayed in. I cannot say enough about the beauty of this place. being able to get up and have a cup of tea by the lake with the swans for company was just amazing. I think I could spend a whole week just in this one spot and not get bored, but you also have the beauty of the peak district right on your doorstep.

5.0/5

Absolutely stunning surroundings. The perfect place to come back to after a tiring day at Alton Towers. My children enjoyed using the trampoline and swings. We loved the calmness of walking around the lake. It’s a very special place. Would highly recommend to friends and family.

8.0/10

Potential for a perfect peaceful getaway with plenty of room to spread out in a beautiful country setting- ask & rea
Positive: Beautiful scenery, spacious cottage, lots of amenities, close to theme park, nearby tea house, 2 bathrooms was a plus for family of 5! Family friendly.
Negative: Shared space with other visitors - screaming kids who left mess outside, directions for amenities, trash & other cottage policies not clearly outlined- we waited an hour for response if we could use the kayaks because we weren’t sure but we did enjoy them once we confirmed; not truly dog friendly - couldn’t leave our dog alone where he was safest & most comfortable so we couldn’t spend family time all together outside- there were other large dogs off lead which made us uncomfortable- our dog is very small and primarily a house dog so although he enjoys some outside time having him outside the whole time was not an option due to the heat & other dogs barking at him. Since we were on top floor we didn’t have garden for him or the family to enjoy outside time together- this wasn’t apparent until after we booked otherwise we would have passed. Cottage was in good shape - but needs some fans- it was very stuffy & smelled a little - opening windows was helpful but the bugs were terrible. Thankfully we brought 2 portable fans which was a life saver! Full disclosure of policies should be provided otherwise refundable booking should be an option. We would stay again in a ground floor cottage with private garden or leave our dog with a sitter at our home or arrange to go with other families we know because it does have potential to be a great getaway if you know what you are getting into and get lucky enough to be there with other respectful guests. We ended finding a sitter 40 min away and made the best of our stay.

10.0/10

Positive: Wonderful views and landscapes
Cottages are very confortable and well equipped
Lots of outdoor area for kids to play safely
The BBQ area was amazing for our birthday celebrations.
Negative: Nothing

10.0/10

Just perfect
Positive: Location, facilities

5.0/5

We were a little apprehensive about booking one cottage in a complex, but we couldn’t have been happier or more comfortable at Foxtwood. Our hosts were really friendly- they let us make a huge fuss of their dogs, invited us in to see the hours-old kittens their cat had just had, and they’ve worked really hard to make the beautiful apartments and land welcoming and unique. There are tons of toys and games for kids, a beautiful lake you can swim in if you’re brave enough, and a fantastic covered barbecue house with a great grill, a wood burning stove and comfortable chairs. We’ll be back, with as many of our friends and family we can muster.

5.0/5

Excellent place to stay with a very responsive host who dealt with an issue in the en-suite very quickly.

5.0/5

Lovely break away at a fantastic location. Site had lots to do, and surroundings were beautiful. Lots of local walks and places to visit. The owners were very friendly and the host was extremely proactive. Communication was excellent. Overall we had a great stay and would visit again.

5.0/5

It was really easy to enjoy a relaxing stay at Clinkum Cottage given its location in a peaceful setting with beautiful natural surroundings. The cottage was well equipped and presented and the unobtrusive heating system made for cosy evenings when it was chilly outside.

5.0/5

Beautiful location in front of the lake. Nice, clean apartment. Tea rooms over the road really nice too.
Lots to do with kids on site.

5.0/5

Second time staying here and just as good as the first!

Thanks so much! :)

5.0/5

Beautiful setting! Wish we were staying for longer!
The cottages were easy to find, lovely & warm on arrival, and very inviting. Beds were comfy, along with the duvets & pillows, they felt good quality, which is something we appreciate when staying away from home.
If we come back to the area, we would definitely stay again.

5.0/5

Perfect trip! Highly recommend

5.0/5

Beautiful and peaceful. Clean and well fitted out. Lovely family who were very helpful.

10.0/10

Couldn’t fault it. Will definitely be back.
Positive: Spotlessly clean, beautiful location.
Stayed for 4 nights over New Year.

5.0/5

We loved our stay here and appreciated the impeccable cleanliness and thoughtful Christmas decor. It was a wonderful base for exploring the Peak District. Quiet and peaceful, but not far from any essentials we needed. Would love to experience this place in the summer, and hope to return. Recommend!

5.0/5

Amazing location with fantastic scenery and walks. Great property with everything we needed.

5.0/5

Our 3rd short stay this year. picturesque location and great amenities

5.0/5

The farm and accommodation were perfect. So beautiful, quiet, clean, a lot to do we didn’t needed to leave the farm. Thank you for the amazing host.

5.0/5

October - The photos do not do this place justice. The situation is beautiful and peaceful with the canal on one side and the lake the other. The accommodation was spotless, the beds were comfortable and the linen and towels were a crisp bright white. The bathrooms were clean and had plenty of shower gel, hand soap and toilet rolls. The underfloor heating was a luxury and the open fire with logs included was just so cosy. Our dog enjoyed the numerous walks and our boys loved all the activities in the games room. We even tried out the kayaks on the lake, it was great to get them away from screens. The kitchen was fully functioning, we even managed to cook a roast dinner for relatives. A beautiful, well looked after area with lots of various outdoor seating arrangements and an abundance of nature to entertain you. We will definitely be returning.

5.0/5

Lovely place! Nice and peaceful with an idyllic lake. Great fun on the kayaks. Shame the boat was out of action but more than enough there to keep us busy. Would definitely recommend.

5.0/5

Fabulous hosts, great communication. Quick couple night stop for us so didn’t get to explore much. The cottage was spotless and just the ticket. Beautiful spot.

5.0/5

we had a lovely stay thank you!

5.0/5

The place far exceeded my expectations it was such a peaceful setting and very well equipped. I will definitely be back

5.0/5

Thanks so much for hosting us for our one night stay. We had a fabulous time as a family swimming in the lake, walking and exploring as well as the kids (and adults) having a great time with all the games and activities - scooters, balance bikes, badminton and pub games etc. we had a blast. Thankyou.

5.0/5

What a beautiful place. Stunning scenery. To the front and rear to property. Great hosts. Felt at home. Many thanks

5.0/5

Amazing place to stay, a lot to do! Would stay again

5.0/5

Amazing place to stay. Such a beautiful setting, and so much to do - particularly for kids of all ages. Brilliantly handy for Alton Towers attractions, and some nice restaurants in the local area.
Clean, comfortable and well equipped accommodation. Responsive and attentive hosts.

5.0/5

It was a lovely stay while meeting up with some friends, very peaceful for days in, and also close to local areas of interest such as Alton Towers. Lots of local walks and nearby shops to get supplies, and parking was easy to access. Rooms were spotless and kitchen was well equipped, would definitely stay here again!

5.0/5

Beautiful setting. Plenty of activity’s for the children. Lots of seating areas. Nice and clean.

4.0/5

Left my review on google
As I said on my review we really did enjoy the stay only issues we had was the WiFi and internet connectivity, would definitely recommend checking your service provider with strength if you have kids as my granddaughter struggled at points when we couldn’t get internet for her, we know the internet isn’t everything but when the weather is bad and no tv it was challenging
Seriously though you can’t fault how beautiful the place is and how much we enjoyed the experience

5.0/5

I cannot recommend this place highly enough! It was pure joy. The lake, swans, fire pit, games room were just fantastic and it really was a blissful haven. Do not hesitate to reserve at Foxtwood.

5.0/5

My family of 5 had the most amazing time at the cottage! Picture perfect scenery, we loved all the games, trampoline table tennis, badminton and especially the kayaks! Wonderful wildlife as well and meeting the resident dog who was a little cutie! We loved having a bbq and toasting marshmallows, we really didn’t want to leave, can’t wait to visit again soon.

5.0/5

Had the best stay possible. The accommodation and setting was like something out of a fairy tale! There is really something special about this place. It was so tranquil and it was the perfect base for our trip to Alton Towers (which was only about 15 mins away).

Cheadle is a short distance away for amenities such as shopping and takeaways.

There was also plenty for the kids to do, with the trampoline, table tennis and they even went for a dip in the pond.

The accommodation itself was lovely and spotless.

I would 100% stay here again and recommend it highly!

5.0/5

Great stay near alton towers, place was in great condition and has working WiFi unlike a few other places nearby we've stayed

would recommend

5.0/5

The airbnb is massive and beautiful. I really enjoyed the stay. The only thing maybe was the cleaning charge. 2 nights 75 pounds seems a bit much. The place is amazing and perfect for families. I will definitely go back. The view is incredible and I fully recommend.

5.0/5

Excellent place. Ideal for a few days break. Good number of toys/scooters. Enjoyed the little lake and walks on canal. Recommend the steam train ride and departing station walkable. Would come back.

5.0/5

We spent the Easter long weekend at this beautiful and peaceful place. The kids loved the trampoline, swings and games. When the sun was out, having lunch outside was really nice. The pond is a beautiful sight from the windows, and the walks nearby are worth exploring too.

10.0/10

Perfect family holiday
Positive: Location. Amenities. Hosts. Accommodation
Negative: Nothing

5.0/5

The room was tidy and the sleeping quarters were extraordinary. My kids said that they had never slept better in their lives until then! The scenery was beautiful and the multiple activities such as the (out of tune but wonderful) piano, playground and solo tennis in the vicinity kept all of us company. The owners were super sweet and let us see the swans and ducks on our last day! 10/10, i would definitely come here again with more family members.

5.0/5

Great stay! Lovely quiet and peaceful location near to great hiking locations. Having the lake on site was a blast also.

5.0/5

one of the best Airbnb house and location......one shoud never miss this place

5.0/5

We thoroughly enjoyed the stay, the house was very clean. Initially had issues with WiFi but the host immediately responded and sorted it.

Overall we had a pleasant stay..!

5.0/5

Brilliant place to stay would recommend and would stay again

1.0/5

I recently booked this Airbnb and had a wonderful experience with the property itself—it was absolutely beautiful, and the space was just as described. I also booked the BBQ hut for a small party. The clinkum cottage sleeps 5, and on the bbq hut booking page there was an option to send invites to up to 10 guests for the BBQ hut, which was great. There was an option to purchase extra coal for £10, which I was fine with.

However, during the BBQ, I requested some extra coal, and a man approached in a very rude manner, raising his voice and aggressively questioning why I was complaining about the coal. He stated there was enough coal for 5 people and made me feel incredibly embarrassed in front of my guests. His behavior was completely unnecessary and ruined my BBQ experience. He could have addressed the situation politely or at least privately, but instead, he chose to shout in front of everyone, which made the situation much worse. This incident left a bad taste otherwise lovely experie

5.0/5

Our stay at Foxwoods amazing and will be looking to came back with our family again
Everything was as described and a big thank to our host

5.0/5

Lovely place to stay with friends, lots to do around the area. Good parking area. Really good kitchen items & fully functional!

What’s nearby

Hand-picked local spots around Clinkum Cottage Swimming Lake, BBQ hut, Games Room — tap a pin for details.

Explore the area around Clinkum Cottage Swimming Lake, BBQ hut, Games Room

Alton Towers & Staffordshire Villages provide a fantastic base for exploring both thrilling adventures and rural charm. Just minutes from Clinkum Cottage you’ll find family fun at the iconic theme park itself, alongside quieter delights like heritage steam journeys on the Churnet Valley Railway departing from Kingsley Station. Enjoy picturesque countryside walks and traditional pub lunches in nearby villages before returning to relax by your private lake.

Sam’s local picks

If you fancy a day out from relaxing here, the Churnet Steam Railway is just a short 6.7 mile drive – perfect for steam train enthusiasts! For beautiful walks and scenery, head to Dimmingsdale (about 19 minutes away), or if anyone’s a JCB fan, JCB World is around a 21-minute trip; it's surprisingly fun even if you don’t know much about diggers.

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 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 tropical indoor aqua park with Stormchaser, Cyclone, Hurricane, Nucleus, Family Multi Slide and toddler rides Waterworld provides an indoor water park experience featuring numerous slides and a tropical lagoon. 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 walk with monkeys, 140 Barbary macaques living wild! Trentham Monkey Forest is home to over 140 Barbary macaques roaming freely within 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 approximately a 10-minute drive away, serving breakfasts, lunches and cakes for those exploring local trails. For pub fare with river views, The Lazy Trout is around a 25-minute drive from the property.

The Lazy Trout The Lazy Trout serves delicious pub fare alongside views of the picturesque River Churnet. Pub · 4.7★ · (2,813 reviews) · 8.1 miles · ~25 min Photo by Paul Gascoyne
Ramblers Retreat Ramblers Retreat offers hearty breakfasts, lunches & cakes perfect for hikers exploring nearby trails. Café · 4.7★ · (1,563 reviews) · 3.8 miles · ~10 min Photo by Dani Jones
The Wayfarer The Wayfarer is renowned for its locally sourced gastropub menu and cosy atmosphere. Gastropub · 4.6★ · (3,871 reviews) · 12.3 miles · ~35 min Photo by The Wayfarer

Things to do

Guests staying here are well placed to explore a diverse range of attractions in Staffordshire. Churnet Valley Railway is just 0.8 miles away for heritage steam train rides, while Peak Wildlife Park offers close encounters with animals after a short 2.5 mile drive. For family entertainment, Alton Towers theme park and waterpark are both within easy reach at approximately 4.4 and 4.7 miles respectively.

Churnet Valley Railway (Kingsley and Froghall Station) Churnet Valley Railway offers heritage steam train rides through the picturesque Staffordshire Moorlands countryside. 4.7★ · (2,595 reviews) · 0.8 miles · ~2 min Photo by Churnet Valley Railway - (Kingsley and Froghall,Station)
Peak Wildlife Park Peak Wildlife Park uniquely allows close encounters with animals like wallabies and penguins in a natural setting. Wildlife park · 4.6★ · (5,590 reviews) · 2.5 miles · ~5 min Photo by Peak Wildlife Park
Alton Towers Alton Towers thrills visitors with its iconic collection of adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters and themed attractions. Entertainment · 4.4★ · (56,966 reviews) · 4.4 miles · ~10 min Photo by Sergio Gutiérrez
Thor's Cave Thor’s Cave boasts stunning panoramic views from within a dramatic, naturally formed limestone cave. Attraction · 4.7★ · (2,690 reviews) · 5.9 miles · ~15 min Photo by kevin mills
Alton Towers Waterpark Alton Towers Waterpark provides a day of fun with thrilling water slides and wave pools for all ages. Attraction · 4.3★ · (4,378 reviews) · 4.7 miles · ~15 min Photo by michael seng
National Trust - Ilam Park Ilam Park showcases picturesque Dovedale scenery and the historic manor house featured in *Pride & Prejudice*. Park · 4.7★ · (4,361 reviews) · 6.6 miles · ~20 min Photo by Jane
Lud's Church Lud’s Church, a deep limestone gorge, inspired authors like JRR Tolkien with its mystical atmosphere. Attraction · 4.8★ · (2,156 reviews) · 11.1 miles · ~30 min Photo by WaiTak Chao
National Trust - Biddulph Grange Garden Biddulph Grange Garden delights visitors with its Victorian-era glasshouses and uniquely themed garden ‘rooms’. Botanical garden · 4.7★ · (5,703 reviews) · 10.9 miles · ~30 min Photo by Jimothy Z
Carsington Water Visitor Centre Carsington Water Visitor Centre offers watersports, birdwatching and scenic walks around the expansive reservoir. Attraction · 4.6★ · (7,863 reviews) · 13.3 miles · ~35 min Photo by Carsington Water Visitor Centre

Getting there & essentials

Guests staying here will require a car for access to local amenities; the nearest Tesco Superstore is approximately 20 minutes away by road and public transport options are limited.

Tesco Superstore Tesco Superstore provides a convenient shopping option for groceries and everyday essentials. Supermarket · 4.2★ · (457 reviews) · 6.8 miles · ~20 min Photo by Dean Bromley
Well Pharmacy Branch of the Well pharmacy chain on Enterprise Way, Stoke-on-Trent, for prescriptions and everyday medicines. Pharmacy · 2.5★ · (31 reviews) · 7.0 miles · ~20 min Photo by Well Pharmacy