Orchard Barn in Hilderstone near Fulford | Must-See Staffordshire Hot Tub Cottage

About Orchard Barn

Orchard Barn is a luxurious converted barn in Fulford, Staffordshire. This two-bedroom beauty combines traditional rustic features with modern comforts. Exposed brick walls and original beams create a genuine countryside feel while the suspended woodburning stove adds proper character. It's the kind of place where you'll immediately kick off your shoes and pour yourself a large one.

Set in rural Staffordshire, you're perfectly positioned to explore the county's top spots. Alton Towers is just a short drive away for thrill-seekers, while Trentham Gardens offers more sedate pleasures. After a day of adventures, nothing beats sliding into your private hot tub with a glass of fizz. The owners even leave Prosecco in the fridge - they know what's up!

The accommodation sleeps six comfortably with two proper bedrooms plus a pull-out double sofa bed in the lounge. The open-plan living space features stone flooring with toasty underfloor heating. There's a fully-equipped kitchen with range cooker, dishwasher and all mod cons. Two smart TVs mean no fighting over the remote.

Nearby attractions include Alton Towers (25 mins), Waterworld (30 mins), Trentham Gardens (15 mins) and Cannock Chase (20 mins). Stone town is just 4 miles away with shops, pubs and restaurants. Fancy pottery? The Emma Bridgewater Factory is 25 minutes by car.

Orchard Barn is perfect for families, couples or friends wanting quality time together. The private garden with hot tub is ideal for summer BBQs or winter stargazing. Previous guests rave about the warm welcome - including cupcakes and fizz on arrival!

Check Prices & Availability »

At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

✓Gas central heating, underfloor heating, woodburning stove
✓Range cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher
✓2 x smart tv's, wifi
✓Fuel and power included in rent
✓Bed linen and towels included in rent
✓Off-road parking for 3 cars
✓Farmhouse courtyard with lawned areas
✓Enclosed private garden (16
✓8m x 8
✓8m approx) with patio furniture and a hot tub
✓Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
✓Smoking or vaping is not permitted, only in the designated garden area
✓Shop 2.5 miles, pub 1.1 miles

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Local Insights: Old Beams

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Fulford, Staffordshire

Weather & Hot Tub Conditions

12°C

Light drizzle

Updated: 17 Sep 2026, 2:54am

🌡️

11.60°C

Temperature

💨

17 km/h

Wind Speed

💧

93%

Humidity

♨️

Hot Tub Tip: The contrast between cool September air and warm hot tub water creates the perfect relaxation experience. Many guests say cooler evenings make hot tub sessions even more enjoyable.

Best Months for Hot Tub Evenings

✓ May - September: Warmest evenings (12-16°C), longest daylight for twilight sessions
✓ October - November: Crisp autumn air, stunning starry skies, perfect contrast with hot water
✓ December - February: Cold air intensifies the experience, possible snow-dusted surroundings
✓ March - April: Spring awakening, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active

🌧️

Rainy Day Tip: Don't let rain stop you! Hot tubbing in light rain is a uniquely peaceful experience. The sound of raindrops while you're warm in the bubbling water is surprisingly relaxing.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Old Beams is located in one of England's darkest sky areas, making it exceptional for stargazing from the hot tub.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

🌌

Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition

This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From The Hot Tub

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

✓ New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
✓ Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
✓ After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
✓ Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up

📱

Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline.

Location & Elevation

235m

(771 feet above sea level)

Old Beams sits in a peaceful Staffordshire setting, perfect for a relaxing hot tub getaway.

🏔️

235m

Elevation

📍

Fulford

Nearest Village

🌲

Rural

Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

✓ Cooler temperatures: Expect 1-2°C cooler than coastal areas, making hot tub sessions even more refreshing
✓ Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
✓ Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
✓ Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to fell summits

🚗

Driving Note: The roads to Fulford are typical Staffordshire lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Coordinates

Latitude: 52.9290062° N | Longitude: 2.0793534° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Fulford (Thursday, 17 September 2026):

5:44am

Sunrise

5:21pm

Golden Hour

6:21pm

Sunset

🌅

5:44am

Sunrise

🌇

6:21pm

Sunset

📸

5:21pm

Golden Hour

Hot Tub Timing by Season

✓ Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - enjoy the hot tub in daylight or twilight
✓ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner soak under emerging stars
✓ Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - dark hot tub sessions, ideal for stargazing
✓ Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day

🌙

Evening Hot Tub Session: For the best experience, start your hot tub session during golden hour (5:21pm). You'll enjoy the warm colours of sunset, then transition into twilight and stars - all without having to get out!

September Daylight

This month in Fulford, you have approximately 12.62 hours of daylight. The shortening days create the perfect excuse for earlier hot tub sessions.

Practical Essentials

Everything you need to know before you arrive at Old Beams.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡

Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗

Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Staffordshire. Consider stocking up on groceries too, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to Orchard Barn

Hot Tub Heaven

The hot tub is always perfectly heated and ready to use. Perfect after a day at Alton Towers or exploring the countryside.

Warm Welcome

Guests regularly mention the thoughtful welcome treats - Prosecco, cupcakes and milk waiting on arrival. The owners go above and beyond.

Cosy Interior

The suspended woodburning stove and underfloor heating make this a toasty retreat even in winter. The rustic beams add authentic character.

Perfect Location

Within 30 minutes of major attractions like Alton Towers, Trentham Gardens and Waterworld. Everything you need is nearby.

High-Quality Finish

The stone flooring, exposed brick and modern amenities create a luxury feel. Guests consistently rate the cleanliness as excellent.

Dog-Friendly Space

Two well-behaved dogs are welcome, with plenty of local walks and a secure garden to enjoy.

Getting To Orchard Barn

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Orchard Barn by car, head toward Fulford village in Staffordshire. The property is accessible from major routes including the A50 and A34. You'll have convenient off-road parking for three cars upon arrival.

By Train

For rail travelers, the nearest station is Stoke-on-Trent, approximately 6 miles from the property. From there, you'll need to take a short taxi ride to reach Orchard Barn in Fulford.

Off-road parking for three cars

Stoke-on-Trent station (6 miles)

Accessible from A50 and A34

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Alton Towers

Distance: 15 miles

ST10 4DB

Trentham Gardens

Distance: 7 miles

ST4 8JG

Waterworld

Distance: 8 miles

ST1 5PU

Cannock Chase

Distance: 12 miles

WS12 4PD

Barlaston Downs

Distance: 5 miles

ST12 9DG

Trentham Estate Walks

Distance: 7 miles

ST4 8JG

Stone High Street

Distance: 4 miles

ST15 8AU

Emma Bridgewater Factory Shop

Distance: 8 miles

ST1 3EJ

Uttoxeter Shopping Centre

Distance: 13.5 miles

ST14 7HL

Stone Bus Station

Distance: 4 miles

ST15 8BA

Stoke-on-Trent Train Station

Distance: 6 miles

ST4 2AA

Taxi - Lucky Seven Taxis

Distance: 4 miles

ST15 0BQ

Alton Towers

Distance: 15 miles

ST10 4DB

Trentham Gardens

Distance: 7 miles

ST4 8JG

Waterworld

Distance: 8 miles

ST1 5PU

Cannock Chase

Distance: 12 miles

WS12 4PD

Barlaston Downs

Distance: 5 miles

ST12 9DG

Trentham Estate Walks

Distance: 7 miles

ST4 8JG

Stone High Street

Distance: 4 miles

ST15 8AU

Emma Bridgewater Factory Shop

Distance: 8 miles

ST1 3EJ

Uttoxeter Shopping Centre

Distance: 13.5 miles

ST14 7HL

Stone Bus Station

Distance: 4 miles

ST15 8BA

Stoke-on-Trent Train Station

Distance: 6 miles

ST4 2AA

Taxi - Lucky Seven Taxis

Distance: 4 miles

ST15 0BQ

Is Orchard Barn Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families

Orchard Barn is brilliant for kids. Alton Towers theme park is just 25 minutes away, with CBeebies Land for younger children. Waterworld's slides and pools are 30 minutes by car. Amerton Farm (15 mins) has animals to pet and play areas. The garden is secure for outdoor play and two Smart TVs keep everyone entertained on rainy days.

For Couples

Orchard Barn offers couples a romantic retreat with its private hot tub under the stars. The suspended woodburning stove creates a cosy atmosphere for evenings in. Underfloor heating feels luxurious underfoot. The welcome Prosecco sets the mood. Nearby Trentham Gardens offers romantic walks, while Stone town has intimate restaurants for date nights.

Pet Friendly

Two dogs are welcome at Orchard Barn for a £25 supplement each. The secure garden (16.8m x 8.8m) gives pets space to explore safely. Cannock Chase is perfect for woodland walks, while Barlaston Downs offers open spaces for running. Stone town has several dog-friendly pubs. Dogs must be friendly toward other dogs as you might meet local pets.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Orchard Barn

The Royal Oak

Located 1.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: ST11 9QT

The Wheatsheaf

Located 3.8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: ST15 8QW

Aston Marina Restaurant

Located 5.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: ST15 8QW

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Orchard Barn

Does this cottage have a hot tub?

Yes, Orchard Barn features a private hot tub in the garden. Previous guests mention it's always kept at the perfect temperature and is especially enjoyable after a day of exploring local attractions.

Is it pet friendly?

Yes, Orchard Barn welcomes two well-behaved dogs. There's a £25 supplement charge per pet and dogs must be friendly toward other dogs as there may be other pets in the vicinity.

How many people can stay at Orchard Barn?

The property sleeps up to 6 people. There are 2 bedrooms plus a pull-out double sofa bed in the lounge area.

What heating systems does the property have?

Orchard Barn has gas central heating throughout and luxurious underfloor heating. There's also a suspended woodburning stove in the living area for extra warmth and atmosphere.

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is off-road parking for 3 cars at Orchard Barn. The parking area is directly adjacent to the property for easy access.

What kitchen facilities are provided?

The kitchen is fully equipped with a range cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine and dishwasher. All the essentials for self-catering are provided.

Are there any restrictions on bookings?

Week-long bookings are required during July and August. The property does not accept stag or hen parties and there's a £150 good housekeeping bond required.

What's nearby to visit?

Alton Towers is a popular nearby attraction, along with Splashlandings, Waterworld, Trentham Gardens and the Emma Bridgewater Factory. Stone town is just 4 miles away for shops and restaurants.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Orchard Barn Reviews

Great cottage, lovely garden and walking distance to a pub.

Richie

We had a lovely break in this cottage. The owners were very welcoming and even very forgiving when a stray ball from my boy playing in the garden broke a window pane in the greenhouse! Contrary to a recent rather bizarre review, the cottage was spotless, including the blinds!! The bedrooms were comfortable and cosy. The hot tub was fab albeit the weather was so hot, we gave it a miss the first night! The goal in the garden was a lovely touch for my footballmad boy. The location was excellent and catered for the varying needs to keep all of the family entertained Cannock Chase, McArther Glen, The Peaks and Alton Towers all within 30min drive. I personally dont think the photos do it justice for how cosy a cottage it is and how tranquil a setting it was. When we next decide to head to this part of the world, well definitely look to stay here again.

Terence

Really enjoyed our stay. Hot tub was fabulous and the secure dog friendly garden really helped to make our holiday. Location was fantastic and the local pub The Shoulder of Mutton is dog, and people, friendly and well worth more than one visit but do check the opening times. As stated, occasionally the WiFi signal dropped, but still left you with access to Freeview TV. Though if at a real loss for something to do watching the squirrels from the hot tub was better than Netflix.

Emilia

The property was fantastic. The place was spotless and had everything we needed. The beds were comfy and the log fire was well stocked. There was even prosecco and cupcakes left for us on arrival. Thanks again Rachael & co for a great stay

Suzanne

Lovely property. Very clean and well equipped. Fully enclosed garden which is excellent for dogs. No issues. Would recommend.

Kirsty

Gorgeous property with everything you need for a lovely stay. Property was really private even though it is next door to the owners, and is not far from local amenities and lots to do in the area. Dog friendly which is a must for us. We all had a wonderful, relaxing time.

Victoria

The property was spotless when we arrived and smelt incredible. The bedding smelt amazing the comfort shone through it all. There wasnt an inch of dirt anywhere! there was everything that we needed. The hot tub was amazing to use and an amazing added extra. we would highly recommend to anyone wanting to get away and will definitely be returning. Thank you so much x

Wonderful hosts, fantastic property.

Fabulous accommodation, would recommend to all if you are thinking of staying here. Great location & lovely hosts.

What an amazing place. Was perfect in every way. Hosts were amazing and always on hand for helpful tips. We had such a great weekend and cannot recommend it enough 10 out of 10 Thanks Scott & Lynn

Kaylee

My husband and I booked for a few days away and it was wonderful. The barn is so well done and so cosy and inviting. The location is perfect, tucked away in a little village surrounded by fields and animals and the added extra of a hot tub to come back to after a day of exploring was perfect. We will definitely be back again in the near future and have already been telling our friendsfamily about our lovely few days away. Thank you for having us x

The property was perfect for a family with the goals and hot tub. The only negative not the owners fault was that due to it being well insulated that on hot days the place could do with a fan or some form of air conditioning. The location for all activities was perfect with everything being within a 30 mins drive.

Andrew

Absolutely amazing place, very clean an well looked after, beautiful cottage so ... Absolutely amazing place, very clean an well looked after, beautiful cottage so relaxing an peaceful, hot tub a added bonus can not fault the cottage or location, the owners where very warm welcoming and friendly, will definitely be booking again

Absolutely beautiful place to stay for a relaxing couple of nights. Wish we had longer. It was so comfortable and clean. The hot tub was amazing after walking around alton towers all day, and the log fire was so cosy and warm. The owners are so lovely and welcoming with the added surprise of cupcakes,prosecco and milk on our arrival lovely touch

Hannah

We booked as a few friends to have a relax before school holidays and a birthday. Had a wonderful time, hit tub lovely. Cottage to a high standard, very clean and owner was lovely

Lovely cottage. Nice and clean. Hot tub amazing!

Stephnie

Nothing to fault. Cottage was just like the pictures. Log burner easy to use every night. Used the lovely hot tub a couple of times, again really simple instructions. The double bedroom what can I say, the bedding was so comfortable and snuggly didnt want to leave and had it all to myself! Lovely bottle of Prosecco on ice and 4 cupcakes and milk upon arrival was a lovely gesture. A really relaxing weeks break in a beautifully done cottage.

This was our second vist, absolutely lovely place to stay. Beautiful surrondings and peacful. Racheal is so welcoming, and nothing is too much trouble. The hot tub is the icing on the cake, I would highly recommend staying here, you won't be disappointed.

We had a really great stay at the property from 29th December to 3rd January, had everything you could need, like a home from home really, some fantastic walks around the surrounding areas and some fabulous restaurants. We would highly recommend this property, hosts where also fantastic, if you needed anything both Paul & Racael where a phone call away and more than accommodating. Thanks sonmuch for a wonderful getaway.

Such a gorgeous little cottage, everything was perfect couldnt have asked for more.

Andrew

My wife and I had a lovely week in the cottage, ideally located within an hour of several big cites. The cottage itself is beautiful and the cherry on the top was the jacuzzi . Also thanks to Rachael who popped in shortly after our arrival, she was friendly and informative, keep up the great work the cottage is a credit to you x

Weve stayed in a number of holiday cottages in the past 10 years and Barn Cottage is one of the best. The cottage was spotlessly clean and beautifully presented, its in a lovely quiet rural position with a dog friendly private rear garden. Its easily accessible by car with places to visit within easy reach. The hot tub was very relaxing and a welcome end to the day. The owner was welcoming on arrival and very helpful. Highly recommended .

Robert

Myself and my wife took our two well behaved small dogs for a week. The property was immaculately clean, homely and presented well. The hot tub is great and the dogs love the large secure rear garden. A lovely central position for days out. All in all a lovely week away. Thank you.

Michelle

Great for what we needed for a base for 4 days. Kitchen bathroom, hot tub and beds all very clean. All kitchen equipment and bedding is of an excellent standard. Cottage looks lovely when you first walk in, but on closer inspection tv unit, skirting, woodwork etc were dusty and clearly hadnt been done on change over . Units in bedroom had thick cobwebs and dust behind. That said these things didnt affect our stay but should be acknowledged. Host was very helpful and friendly, she met us on arrival and gave us the information we needed, Prosecco and cupcakes were a lovely touch. Great location for Alton Towers, 25min drive, great pub nearby Shoulder of mutton. The other holiday cottage is very close, the people staying the same time as us had 3 dogs, they barked quite a lot and I could see and hear them at the upstairs windows barking in the mornings. The hot tub was wonderful for our teenagers after a day in the theme park. This was probably the highlight of the stay for them. We have stayed in a lot of cottages in the UK and I would rate this one as a solid 810.

Stephen

Nice cottage and convenient location for a nice family week holiday.

Suzanne

Excellent! 10 out of 10 for everything!

What a lovely cottage! My wife and I stayed there for a week with our dog and absolutely loved it. The garden is large so it had plenty of space for the dog, it was so peaceful too being so far away from any busy roads and is fenced so is enclosed for the dog. The hot tub was great, it was clean and always hot. Inside the property, it is clearly well looked after and clean too. The communication from the owner Rachael was perfect, an email a couple of days before with additional information on how to find it, tips for when we got there, information for the dog etc and she also came to meet us in case we had any questions. Would absolutely recommend staying here well be trying to book a short stay in winter to make the most of the log burner.

Rachel was a lovely host , cottage looks fantastic, had a lovely stay

Leave a Review

Orchard Barn, Fulford

About Orchard Barn

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

Weather & Hot Tub Conditions

Best Months for Hot Tub Evenings

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Bortle Scale Rating

What You Can See From The Hot Tub

Best Stargazing Conditions

Location & Elevation

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

Coordinates

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Hot Tub Timing by Season

September Daylight

Practical Essentials

Mobile Phone Signal

Nearest Essentials

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

Hot Tub Heaven

Warm Welcome

Cosy Interior

Perfect Location

High-Quality Finish

Dog-Friendly Space

Getting To Orchard Barn

By Car

By Train

Attractions & More Nearby

Is Orchard Barn Right For You?

For Families

For Couples

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Royal Oak

The Wheatsheaf

Aston Marina Restaurant

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Orchard Barn Reviews