Shacks: A Luxury Off Grid Stay In The Staffordshire Countryside
An off-grid time away in a luxurious cabin within the Staffordshire countryside? Oh yes please. I had an idea what great things to expect too, last year we stayed in one of Shacks hidden away cabins atop a hill above Llangollen. So I absolutely jumped at the chance to stay in one in a totally different setting.
This time it was to be in the heart of the woodlands of Staffordshire. I can’t be absolutely specific about ‘exactly’ where, that is the beauty of Shacks. They are off-grid, away from roads and towns, the specific location given to you near your arrival time from booking.
So what was this little luxurious little cabin away from it all going to be like? Absolutely wonderful and absolutely needed.
Location
Ok I said I can’t be too specific but can say that this time the shack was located beside a glorious old woodland with massive views across the landscape the other way.
Once we got the location information we easily found where to park the car then had good instructions on how to get from there to the cabin. It is here you realise how secluded the cabin is. Perfectly placed well away from roads, and eyes etc. Wild living in a little cabin of luxury.
That doesn’t mean you are completely away from civilisation if you want a dose of it with a short journey. The nearest village is the lovely Swynnerton.
One of the great views, right out of the front of the cabin on the horizon, was the unmistakable sight of The Wrekin, rising up in the sky. You are completely surrounded by nature, rolling fields and natural woodland.
The Cabin
Here is the thing. As you turn the corner and see your lovely off-grid home, that will become such a peaceful base for a few days, I firstly had the panic of wondering if 2 adults and 3 dogs would be comfortable. All fears are unfounded.
The Shack named Alcor, sat there awaiting for us to have a wonderful time away.
The cabins by Shacks are designed and laid out so that all space is maximised, somehow and it feels like you have plenty of room. In fact when you leave you will start wondering how you fill your own home and feel more cramped there.
The big bed and huge windows are in the perfect position together, with the massive view across the countryside to sit/lie and gaze out to.
The other end of the cabin holds the toilet and shower room. The toilet is composting and feels extremely well done. The shower is large enough with 2 types of shower head, normal and a large rain shower head. Perfect after a warm day’s exploring.
The kitchen area has a double gas hob, grill and a little fridge. Plus utensils to help you cook a lovely dinner after exploration.
So let us look at the power and the magic behind it all. Yes you are off grid, but yet you have hot water, gas hobs, small fridge and lights.
Beside the cabin you will see a row of solar panels. These keep you in power fro lights to gas hob ignition. You are away from it all off-grid remember so all the comfort essentials are absolutely taken care of. No need for plug sockets to work on laptops etc. So refreshing.
The footprint of the Shack is small yet you can get a whole lot of living and enjoyment. The fence surrounding you seperates you from any potential livestock as well as giving the dogs plenty of worry free play space. Or for you to sit out in the sun and enjoy the firepit under the stars.
That is another thing. Because the positioning of all the shacks being so well thought out I have noticed minimal light pollution every time. So when you look out from bed through the massive windows, or sit out on the chairs, the night sky is filled with star wonders.
Pet Friendly
As I have already said, we came with the 3 dogs and it was a great space for all concerned together. You would think it would be a bit tight with everyone under each other’s feet but no, even the dogs settle well in the peace as well as everyone blending into the surroundings well.
The shacks have an area outside the cabin for dogs to play and you to sit, and if there are livestock around then the dogs are safely separated.
An Inspiring Stay
Once you settle down and take a deep breath, you realise the thought that has gone into locations for these cabins. Total peace and tranquility. It allows you to think properly and perhaps get a recharge on your creative juices.
Zoe was able to wind down, take out her sketchbook and draw, paint and really take in the scenes.
Local Area
Without again spoiling the secret exact spot of the shack there are so many options for getting out in the fresh air and for places to visit.
Swynnerton is the nearest village, a gorgeous little place with quaint houses and gardens. The repuation of the local pub, The Fitzherbert Arms, is fantastic and I can vouch for that. If on a walk or looking for somewhere to dine out then definitely check it out.
In the other direction you have Trentham with gardens and parkland to walk around and explore, or maybe get a shopping fix.
In the immediate vicinity you have so many walks to choose from. And so many from right outsde the door. If you have enough food in you can have a stay were the car is not needed. You will realise that Staffordshire is a beautiful area to wander.
Conclusion
Out of all the places I have stayed in and reviewed over the years, Shacks provides an experience that is deeply more ‘me’.
I love being away from it all, I love being away from so much materialism beyond needs and I love to be living near nature. This stay provided all that I needed as well as helped me recharge the batteries of my body and mind.
I have experienced this splendour in late Spring, I can imagine every season is incredible here. The surrounding woodland bringing extra charm each time.
You can find out more about this particular cabin, Alcor, and how to book at Shacks.
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