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Ipstones

Wharf Cottage: Swimming lake, BBQ Hut, Games Room

Upstairs, indulge in a rejuvenating experience with the spacious shower room, equipped with a high-pressure mains shower. Downstairs, unwind in the open-plan sitting and dining area that overlooks the canal and the cottage’s charming garden, perfect for relaxation or a BBQ session. Wharf Cottage is complete with a wood-burning stove and includes hot water and heating for a cosy stay.

The separate, well-equipped kitchen and additional downstairs WC ensure convenience and comfort during your stay. Wharf Cottage is ideal for small families, couples, or friends seeking a peaceful retreat and an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.

Outside is a great space, with gardens for games, BBQs, relaxing & fresh air. There is also the fabulous BBQ shelter where you can sit around a fire pit and relax with family or friends. All this is set within 30 acres of ancient woodlands and flower rich meadows bursting with native birds, wildlife and our own Dexter cattle herd. The Cottages themselves all have woodland, lake or canal views, as well as log fires and exceptional kitchens and bathrooms. After a great night’s sleep in the peace and quiet, you can explore many of the local attractions and places of interest close to Foxtwood.

Alternatively, you can relax without moving. We have outdoor games, a trampoline, as well as table football, skittles, table tennis and more – something for children of all ages.

The lake has swimming and boats which you can use at your own leisure

The BBQ pit needs to be booked at an extra charge of £30 a session which 5pm to 10pm the £30 booking includes a bucket of charcoal and a trug of logs, which should be sufficient for a small group of up to 6.

Extra charcoal or logs can be purchased at £10 each. If the area is not booked, you are very welcome to go and picnic or relax at no charge.

There is table football, a magnetic dart board, table tennis, little scooters, trampoline, swing and slides, swing ball and piano in the communal games area which is separate to the cottage and shared with the 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!

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!

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

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.

Churnet Steam Railway is 0.8 miles, 2 min

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

Trentham Monkey Forest – walk with monkeys, 140 Barbary macaques living wild!
14.5 miles, 33 min

Where you’ll be
Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom

Country Retreat

3 Guests

2 Bedrooms

1 Bathroom

Midweek £107/nt · Weekend £152/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 3 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

Woodburning Stove

Coffee Machine

Oven

Washing Machine

Dishwasher

Microwave

Iron

Hairdryer

Tumble dryer

Firepit

BBQ

EV Charger

BED LAYOUT

Sleeps 3 2 bedrooms 2 beds

Bedroom 1

1× Double Bed

Bedroom 2

1× Single Bed

70 verified reviews

(62 reviews)

(8 reviews)

All reviews from verified guests

10.0/10

Return visit is a must
Positive: Everything. The place was beautiful and clean . Peaceful and fun . The BBQ area was well worth it . Coal supplied and tools . We never got to use the lake as we were preparing to go to a local wedding .
We will definitely be back 5 stars
Negative: I could not fault it at all

5.0/5

Will come again

5.0/5

Wonderful stay in beautiful surroundings. Would absolutely book again.

5.0/5

We LOVED it here! The cottage was perfect, location beautiful. Amazingly well kept. Our 8 year old son made friends and could safely play outside in the games room and play area. So much to see and do in the surrounding area too. We will be returning for sure!

5.0/5

Dit is een absolute aanrader, een heel gezellig huisje op een fantastische plek. In de tuin liggen allemaal leuke buitenspellen die je kunt gebruiken, het meer is heerlijk om te zwemmen (wel fris) en je kunt zelfs zomaar een kajak gebruiken. Je kunt ook gewoon rustig aan de waterkant op een van de lekkere stoelen zitten. We voelden ons heel erg thuis. De omgeving is prachtig, maar probeer niet de wandelroutes te volgen die in de buurt op een bord staan, want die zijn deels totaal onbegaanbaar (overwoekerd door braamstruiken) en nauwelijks aangegeven ter plekke.

5.0/5

Great little get away! So much better than looks in photos ❤️!!! Private and can stay on land but also lots to do a few minutes away. Kids loved it!!! Hosts where great if needed. Would definitely book again.

5.0/5

Lovely stay

5.0/5

Wonderful few days, we will be back, thank you for having us.

5.0/5

Stayed for 2 nights with 2 friends and had a lovely time swimming in the lake and exploring. Really welcoming atmosphere and adorable animals too.

5.0/5

The pictures of The Wharf cottage don’t do the inside justice. Both single and double room are much more spacious and homey than they look in the photos.
We had beautiful views and a calm, restful stay.
Although there are other cottages, we didn’t hear anyone else.
There’s a lovely tea room 2 minutes walk away (you don’t see of hear them from the cottage) so if you’re in need of a proper coffee or a cake, it’s right on your doorstep.
Highly recommend for a peaceful stay.

5.0/5

Amazing setting! Loved swimming in the lake and paddling around in the kayaks. Beautiful meadow setting, rich with wildflowers including orchids. Lovely that each cottage also has its own garden, with tabla and chairs to eat outside. We will definitely be back to walk the Roaches and Manifold Valley. Interesting area

5.0/5

2nd time ive stayed here. The kids and i loved it. Its such a relaxing place to stay and really convenient for alton towers.

4.0/5

Had a lovely couple of days. We swam in the lake very invigorated. Used the canoes. Cycling around the local canal network. Even though the weather wasn’t great it didn’t stop us from doing the things we enjoyed. Lots of great places to visit local & even if you travel a few miles. Games area was disappointing, although we played table tennis and bar football. Dartboard was shoddy 😉🤷‍♂️. I wouldn’t let anything put you off

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

5.0/5

A gorgeous little sanctuary - we will be back!

5.0/5

Lovely cottage with lots of amenities at the accommodation you have it all from swimming ,fishing to firepit,BBQ & well equipped games room and easy access to beautiful walks with the doggy the beds were so comfy & linen spotless thank you for a great stay would highly recommend & would love to come back!

5.0/5

Tranquil setting with lots of activities for the kids and adults. The tearoom over the road was an unexpected treat.

5.0/5

We had such a lovely stay here. The location is incredible, right next to the lake, with self-serve canoeing and plenty of activities for little ones to enjoy. The cottages are beautiful and the views are absolutely stunning.

It was perfect for our children, aged 1 and 3, and felt really family-friendly throughout our stay.

Ben was a real asset, so kind, welcoming, and helpful. We actually ended up extending our trip because we couldn’t bear to leave. We’d absolutely love to come back.

5.0/5

Fab accommodations. Super peaceful and beautiful. Great for families, lots of different games, puzzles, books, and outdoor fun for all ages. Highly recommend!

5.0/5

Lovely peaceful stay

5.0/5

We stayed here for a couple of nights whilst visiting Alton Towers. The property was very cosy and in a lovely location. Everything was clean and as described. The ghost was really helpful and quick to respond to our messages. We would definitely recommend if you are looking to stay in the area.

5.0/5

A great, peaceful location with lots of local walks and cafes/restaurants nearby. Easy to get to Peak District and the perfect place to wind down after a day of hiking!! Would highly recommend to anyone wanting a weekend of walking and lounging and reading and exploring- super cosy!!

5.0/5

Just got back from an amazing 2 night stay at Wharf cottage - cannot fault the accommodation! Especially loved how well they catered for children with the trampoline and games room. Would definitely recommend.

5.0/5

Great place, would recommend!

5.0/5

Lovely place, would highly recommend!

5.0/5

I booked this for my 50th birthday to relax and it was just perfect!

The lake and the land were just stunning and the bbq barn was fabulous and a great spot to book and cook and sit by the log burner with fantastic views

The play areas and trampoline was amazing for my daughter and she could play safely and always had something to do

We will definitely be back 🙏

10.0/10

Fantastic and faultless. Totally recommended.
Positive: The house had everything we needed and more. The kitchen is very well stocked with everything you would need to cook and eat. The bedrooms are warm and really well presented, and the beds comfy. The outdoor space was beautiful and so peaceful with lovely seating on the water for morning coffee. The Fire pit and bbq area is outstanding!! We sat for hours stoking the fire and watching owls in the trees. Incredible place with fantastic owners, friendly and helpful. The local pub the fox and goose had amazing food and lovely staff. We enjoyed our stay very much indeed.

5.0/5

A lovely place to relax, we loved the lake view with the swans and the twinkly lights outside with lots of seating. Everything felt cosy and sweet. The beds were really comfortable and floor heating great too.
We had lovely brunch at Hettys next door too, which was amazing! 🥒🫖🌷

Thanks for a lovely stay, good value 🫖🌷

5.0/5

Beautiful little house in a wonderful peaceful setting.
House was very clean, beds were comfy and it had everything we needed.
The grounds and surrounding was beautiful for walks and close to village pub and tea room.
Would recommend and will be back in the summer!

5.0/5

We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful, quiet property! The location is so peaceful, with lovely walks right along the canal. Ample parking on-site. Fantastic spot for kids as well, thanks to the games room, trampoline, and play equipments.

5.0/5

A lovely place to stay for a quick break away. Kids loved the outdoor games; dog loved the walks. Cottage was clean and had everything we needed. Check in easy and flexible. Thanks for a great trip!

5.0/5

Amazing host. Will deffo come back again loved the heated flooring and a very comfortable stay for all occasions and seasons

5.0/5

A lovely place to stay with stunning scenery. We will certainly be back for a third time

5.0/5

Great stay easy process. Would recommend.

5.0/5

We stayed in Wharf Cottage
The welcome booklet was extremely informative and probably the best I've seen.
The cottages were set in the most beautiful surroundings. So peaceful and away from the hustle and bustle.

The cottage was well laid out with all the equipment needed.

Beds were very comfy.

We had a really comfortable stay and hope to return again in the future.

5.0/5

Really great cosey location. you just want to stay longer and return. we mainly loved how clean it was and nice and warm with underfloor heating. thank you

10.0/10

Positive: Beautiful location and really friendly staff on site. We were made to feel welcome immediately
Negative: Nothing to dislike

5.0/5

Lovely stay, definitely recommend hiring the fire pit (fire set up and ready to light!), kayaks a nice touch for a morning activity.

10.0/10

Positive: We travelled to the property to take our son to Alton Towers for his birthday and the location couldn't have been more perfect, a quick fifteen minute drive. The cottage itself was really clean and comfortable, our son particularly liked being next to the lake with the ducks and swans. Would definitely stay again.
Negative: Nothing worth mentioning

5.0/5

Cottage was lovely and well equipped, beds were very comfy, nice quiet area and gorgeous surroundings, communication from the host was brilliant, thank you for a wonderful stay.

5.0/5

Host was very friendly and very communicative. Check in was easy - area is lovely and had lots to do. Host was very attentive to guests too, lots of board gsmes provided + outdoor area for table tennis and other fames. Clean and comfortable place although a little small but perfect for 3 people.

4.0/5

Beautiful stunning location very close to Alton Towers - fantastic facilities with the games room and outdoor play area. Lovely walks around the area.

5.0/5

Awesome location and place, it was clean and peaceful would love to book it again if I would be there again

5.0/5

This is such an idyllic and beautiful place to stay. It is especially great for children. We brought our toddler and he had the time of his life playing on the bikes and looking at the ducks and swans.

The place even has it's own garden which backs onto the canal. It's well located with lots of nice day trips a short car ride away. We will hopefully be back!

5.0/5

Great place for a relaxing trip. communication etc was spot on, kids loved it, would definitely stay again 👌

5.0/5

Beautiful cottage; lovely BBQ pit and friendly hosts. Great for EV charging as well - the hosts were extremely accommodating. Thank you and we look forward to returning! Cheers

5.0/5

We had the most wonderful time at Foxtwood Cottages celebrating our little one's 1st birthday! The whole experience was truly special – the setting is absolutely stunning, with beautiful views all around and such a peaceful atmosphere. Our cottage was cosy, homely, and had everything we needed for a relaxing family getaway.

One of our favourite touches was the firepit – it was the perfect spot to wind down and chat as the sun set, and added a really lovely, rustic charm to the evenings. During the day, we made full use of the lake – the kayaks and swimming were just what we needed on a hot summer’s day. Such a brilliant way to cool off and have fun!

The host was so helpful and responsive, and gave us some great tips on local places to eat and explore – it really made our stay even better knowing where to go.

We’ll definitely be coming back. Thank you for helping us make some beautiful memories!

5.0/5

beautiful place very peacefull the swans and geese just give that magic touch

5.0/5

We had the BEST weekend here and are already looking to book again!

It was so peaceful and also lots to do - we must have done everything! Ping pong, darts, kayaking, bbq, swing ball etc.

Our two little dogs had a lovely time too.

Only issue we had was flies, so will bring citronella candles next time

What’s nearby

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

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

Rolling hills and charming villages define this corner of Staffordshire, offering a delightful blend of countryside calm and thrilling attractions. Perfectly positioned between the Peak District’s wild beauty and family fun, Wharf Cottage is ideal for exploring local gems like the historic Churnet Valley Railway at Kingsley and Froghall Station. It's a great base for days out and cosy evenings alike.

Sam’s local picks

Right here at Wharf Cottage we’ve got loads to keep you entertained – a lovely swimming lake for warmer days, a BBQ hut perfect for evening meals and a games room if the weather isn't playing ball! If you fancy venturing further afield, Alton Towers Resort with its waterpark & gardens is only 13 minutes away, or Dimmingsdale and JCB World are both within easy driving distance too.

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 Alton Towers thrills visitors with its iconic collection of adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters. 6.7 miles · ~20 min · 4.4★ · (56,966 reviews) Photo by Sergio Gutiérrez

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, 21 mts ~1 hr · 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 offers a tropical-themed indoor waterpark experience with numerous slides and rides. 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

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 a variety of food and drink options within easy reach; Ramblers Retreat, approximately a 10 minute drive, is a popular coffee stop for hikers near Alton Towers. For pub dining with canal views, The Lazy Trout is located around 25 minutes from the property.

The Lazy Trout The Lazy Trout serves delicious pub food alongside a canal-side setting, ideal for walkers. Pub · 4.7★ · (2,813 reviews) · 8.1 miles · ~25 min Photo by Paul Gascoyne
Ramblers Retreat Ramblers Retreat provides a cosy coffee stop popular with hikers near Alton Towers. Café · 4.7★ · (1,563 reviews) · 3.8 miles · ~10 min Photo by Dani Jones
The Wayfarer The Wayfarer offers refined dining with locally sourced ingredients in a charming village gastropub. Gastropub · 4.6★ · (3,871 reviews) · 12.3 miles · ~35 min Photo by The Wayfarer

Things to do

Guests staying here are well-placed for exploring Staffordshire’s diverse attractions. Churnet Valley Railway is just 0.8 miles away offering heritage steam train rides, while Peak Wildlife Park provides close encounters with exotic animals at a distance of 2.5 miles. For family days out, Alton Towers and its 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 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 wallabies, penguins and other exotic animals. Wildlife park · 4.6★ · (5,590 reviews) · 2.5 miles · ~5 min Photo by Peak Wildlife Park
Thor's Cave Thor's Cave boasts a dramatic natural cave opening offering stunning views from the Manifold Valley. Attraction · 4.7★ · (2,690 reviews) · 5.9 miles · ~15 min Photo by kevin mills
Alton Towers Waterpark Alton Towers Waterpark provides family fun with exciting water slides and wave pools. Attraction · 4.3★ · (4,378 reviews) · 4.7 miles · ~15 min Photo by michael seng
National Trust - Ilam Park Ilam Park features beautiful riverside walks, historic manor house ruins, and grazing sheep. Park · 4.7★ · (4,361 reviews) · 6.6 miles · ~20 min Photo by Jane
Trentham Monkey Forest Trentham Monkey Forest lets you walk amongst 140 Barbary macaques in a natural woodland habitat. Wildlife park · 4.6★ · (9,829 reviews) · 11.5 miles · ~30 min Photo by Trentham Monkey Forest
Lud's Church Lud's Church is a deep, atmospheric chasm inspiring authors like Tolkien with its unique geology. Attraction · 4.8★ · (2,156 reviews) · 11.1 miles · ~30 min Photo by WaiTak Chao
National Trust - Biddulph Grange Garden Biddulph Grange Garden showcases Victorian garden “rooms” featuring exotic plants and intricate landscaping. Botanical garden · 4.7★ · (5,703 reviews) · 10.9 miles · ~30 min Photo by Jimothy Z
Carsington Water Visitor Centre Carsington Water Visitor Centre provides watersports, cycling trails and birdwatching around the 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 find a swimming lake, BBQ hut and games room on site; Longton railway station is around 20 minutes away by car, as is the Tesco Superstore.

Longton Longton is a local railway station serving connections within Staffordshire and beyond. Transit station · 3.3★ · (20 reviews) · 8.0 miles · ~20 min Photo by Phoenix Property
Tesco Superstore Tesco Superstore stocks groceries and essentials for visitors needing supplies during their trip. Supermarket · 4.2★ · (457 reviews) · 6.8 miles · ~20 min Photo by Dean Bromley
Well Pharmacy Well Pharmacy provides prescription services and over-the-counter medicines to the local community. Pharmacy · 2.5★ · (31 reviews) · 7.0 miles · ~20 min Photo by Well Pharmacy