The Old Parlour in Alton | Must-See Staffordshire Hot Tub Cottage

About The Old Parlour

The Old Parlour is a single-storey cottage in Alton, Staffordshire that packs a serious punch. This converted barn sits just minutes from the village centre and offers spacious accommodation for up to six people across three well-appointed bedrooms. Perfect for families who want countryside without sacrificing convenience.

The location is spot-on for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Alton Towers is a mere 5-minute drive away close enough to hear the screams if you listen carefully! The stunning Peak District National Park stretches beyond your doorstep, offering walking routes for all abilities. After a day of exploring, you'll appreciate the private hot tub waiting for you back at base camp.

Inside, you'll find three bedrooms: a king-size with en-suite shower room, a versatile twin that converts to super-king and a bunk room that kids will fight over. The kitchen/diner has all essentials for feeding your crew, while the sitting room features a woodburning stove for toasty evenings watching TV with a favourite drink..

Alton Towers (1 mile, 5 mins) offers white-knuckle rides and Splash Landings water park. Dovedale (12 miles, 25 mins) provides picture-perfect walking trails. Trentham Gardens (15 miles, 30 mins) combines shopping with beautiful landscapes. Uttoxeter Racecourse (9 miles, 20 mins) brings heart-pounding horse racing action.

The Old Parlour stands head and shoulders above standard holiday cottages. With its games room featuring darts and table football, it's impossible to get bored here unless you're losing. Book now before someone else nabs your dates!

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

✓Gas central heating
✓Oven, hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher
✓Tv, wifi
✓Fuel, power, and starter pack for woodburning stove included in rent
✓Bed linen and towels included in rent
✓Travel cot and highchair available on request
✓Private driveway parking for 6 cars
✓Front garden with lawn, outdoor games room featuring a dartboard, table football, and reading corner
✓Front sheltered patio area with bar area, furniture, and hot tub
✓Secure bike storage
✓Sorry, no pets and no smoking
✓Shop 0.2 miles, pub 0.2 miles, lake 1.5 miles
✓Note: step up on the landing to bedrooms, please take care
✓Please note: the games room will be unavailable from january 2027 due to ongoing works on the site next door, these works are expected to continue until the end of may 2027,if you have any questions or would like further information, please contact our call centre before making your booking

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Local Insights: Acorn Lodge

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Alton, Staffordshire

Weather & Hot Tub Conditions

15°C

Overcast

Updated: 28 Aug 2026, 2:53am

🌡️

14.50°C

Temperature

💨

7 km/h

Wind Speed

💧

97%

Humidity

♨️

Hot Tub Tip: The contrast between cool August 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

Acorn Lodge 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

161m

(528 feet above sea level)

Acorn Lodge sits in a peaceful Staffordshire setting, perfect for a relaxing hot tub getaway.

🏔️

161m

Elevation

📍

Alton

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 Alton are typical Staffordshire lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Coordinates

Latitude: 52.9792298° N | Longitude: 1.8901168° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Alton (Friday, 28 August 2026):

5:09am

Sunrise

6:08pm

Golden Hour

7:08pm

Sunset

🌅

5:09am

Sunrise

🌇

7:08pm

Sunset

📸

6:08pm

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 (6:08pm). You'll enjoy the warm colours of sunset, then transition into twilight and stars - all without having to get out!

August Daylight

This month in Alton, you have approximately 13.98 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean extended evening activities before the hot tub beckons.

Practical Essentials

Everything you need to know before you arrive at Acorn Lodge.

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 The Old Parlour

Spotlessly Clean

Guests rave about the exceptional cleanliness standards at The Old Parlour. The property is meticulously maintained to the highest level.

Hot Tub Heaven

The covered hot tub area with seating and garden swing hammock creates a perfect outdoor relaxation space regardless of weather.

Perfect Location

Just minutes from Alton village and only 5 minutes from Alton Towers, the location combines countryside peace with easy access to attractions.

Spacious Layout

The single-storey design offers plenty of room for families, with generous bedroom sizes and ample outdoor space for everyone.

Games Room Fun

The outdoor games room with dartboard, table football and reading corner provides entertainment options for all ages.

Attentive Host

Kelly, the host, receives top marks for being available if needed while respecting guests' privacy throughout their stay.

Getting To The Old Parlour

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Old Parlour by car, take the A50 towards Uttoxeter and follow signs for Alton. The cottage is located just off the main road through the village with clear signage to guide you in.

By Train

For rail travelers, Uttoxeter station is the closest rail connection, approximately 9 miles from the property. From there, you'll need to take a taxi to complete your journey to the cottage.

Private driveway parking for six cars

Uttoxeter station (9 miles)

Easy access from the A50

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Alton Towers

Distance: 1 mile

ST10 4DB

Trentham Gardens

Distance: 15 miles

ST4 8JG

Dovedale

Distance: 12 miles

DE6 2AY

Peak District National Park

Distance: 8 miles

SK17 0DG

Churnet Valley Railway

Distance: 5 miles

ST10 2HA

Ilam Park

Distance: 10 miles

DE6 2AZ

Uttoxeter Town Centre

Distance: 9 miles

ST14 7HP

Ashbourne Market

Distance: 12 miles

DE6 1ES

Stoke-on-Trent Ceramic Shops

Distance: 18 miles

ST1 3EH

Alton Village Shop

Distance: 0.2 miles

ST10 4AQ

Local Bus Stop

Distance: 0.3 miles

ST10 4AQ

Uttoxeter Racecourse

Distance: 9 miles

ST14 8BD

Alton Towers

Distance: 1 mile

ST10 4DB

Trentham Gardens

Distance: 15 miles

ST4 8JG

Dovedale

Distance: 12 miles

DE6 2AY

Peak District National Park

Distance: 8 miles

SK17 0DG

Churnet Valley Railway

Distance: 5 miles

ST10 2HA

Ilam Park

Distance: 10 miles

DE6 2AZ

Uttoxeter Town Centre

Distance: 9 miles

ST14 7HP

Ashbourne Market

Distance: 12 miles

DE6 1ES

Stoke-on-Trent Ceramic Shops

Distance: 18 miles

ST1 3EH

Alton Village Shop

Distance: 0.2 miles

ST10 4AQ

Local Bus Stop

Distance: 0.3 miles

ST10 4AQ

Uttoxeter Racecourse

Distance: 9 miles

ST14 8BD

Is The Old Parlour Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families

The Old Parlour is kid paradise. The bunk bedroom gives them their own space while the outdoor games room with table football and darts provides hours of entertainment. Alton Towers theme park is just 5 minutes away, with Splash Landings water park next door. The flat, single-storey layout makes it safe for younger children and baby equipment (cot and highchair) is provided.

For Couples

Couples will love the king-size bedroom with private en-suite shower room. The hot tub offers romantic evenings under the stars, while the woodburning stove creates cozy nights in. The property's single-storey layout means total privacy. Located minutes from local pubs and restaurants, it's perfect for romantic meals out, followed by countryside walks in the stunning Peak District landscape.

Pet Friendly

The Old Parlour does not accept pets. The property maintains a strict no-pets policy to ensure the accommodation remains suitable for guests with allergies. If you're traveling with pets, you'll need to find alternative accommodation in the area that welcomes four-legged visitors.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Old Parlour

The Bulls Head

Located 0.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: ST10 4AQ

The Alton Bridge Hotel

Located 0.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: ST10 4DD

The White Hart

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: ST10 4AW

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Old Parlour

Does this cottage have a hot tub?

Yes, The Old Parlour features a hot tub located in the sheltered front patio area. The hot tub is part of a dedicated relaxation zone that also includes a bar area and outdoor furniture.

Is the cottage pet friendly?

No, The Old Parlour does not accept pets. The property maintains a strict no-pets policy to ensure the accommodation remains suitable for guests with allergies.

How many cars can park at the property?

The Old Parlour has a private driveway with parking for up to 6 cars. This generous parking arrangement makes it ideal for multiple families or groups traveling together.

What bedroom configurations are available?

The cottage has three bedrooms: a king-size with en-suite shower room, a twin room that can be converted to a super-king upon request and a bunk bedroom. This flexible arrangement accommodates various group compositions.

How far is Alton Towers from the cottage?

Alton Towers is approximately 5 minutes' drive from The Old Parlour. This makes the cottage an excellent base for families planning multiple visits to the theme park during their stay.

Is the property suitable for people with mobility issues?

The Old Parlour is single-storey, which helps with accessibility, but does have a step up on the landing to bedrooms. The property isn't fully adapted for wheelchair users but works well for those with mild mobility limitations.

What entertainment options are available at the cottage?

The cottage features a TV in the sitting room, an outdoor games room with dartboard and table football and WiFi throughout. There's also a reading corner in the games room for quieter moments.

Are there any shops or pubs nearby?

Yes, both shops and pubs are located just 0.2 miles away in Alton village. This short walk means you can easily pick up supplies or enjoy a meal out without needing to drive.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

The Old Parlour Reviews

We had a lovely stay and would happily recommend this property. It was clean, comfortable and had a really cosy lounge, and the beds were very comfortable too, which made for a relaxing stay after busy days out. We visited during the hottest week of the year, and the property became very warm. There were no fans provided, so we bought a couple ourselves, which made a big difference. It would be a great addition for future guests during warmer weather. The kitchen was well equipped overall, although a few larger serving dishes or plates would have been useful for family meals. The owners were absolutely lovely very friendly, responsive and on hand whenever we needed anything, which we really appreciated. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and wouldnt hesitate to return in the future. Thank you for a great holiday!

Lovely property very comfortable bungalow in a picturesque location. Responsive owner to any queries

Leanne

We just fell in love with the Old Parlour

We spent the weekend at the old parlour for my mums 60th birthday. The old parlour is a beautiful house with all the amenities. The hot tub was great and added bonus it was under shelter so you can use in any weather. The beds and sofas were really comfortable and we had a fantastic weekend. The location is great with pubs on the doorsteps and plenty of walks nearby. We had a great time and would recommend the old parlour.

Totally recommend. We stayed 4 nights in October half term to combine with trip to Alton Towers. Loved the hot tub, games room and wood burning stove. Great to be able to walk to a couple of pubs and to have the village shop. Good access to Peak District.

Claire

This was our second visit to the lovely Old Parlour and it did not disappoint. This accommodation is so beautiful set out and has everything we need for our stay. The hot tub is always a massive bonus especially where its under the canopy its still usable no matter the weather. The additional seasonal touches are a lovely touch too. We will be back again.

Barbara

. This is a great place to stay for Alton Towers and lots of other places to visit. The Old Parlour is very relaxing and the hot tub is checked every day Also Kelly is very friendly and helpful .

Suzanne

My family and I loved our stay at The Old Parlour. The cottage was very welcoming, being beautifully decorated and well maintained. We were expecting a nice cottage after reading previous reviews and we werent disappointed. The hot tub was very welcoming and soothing after busy days out and we will definitely return in the future.

Anne-marie

The Old Parlour was everything you see in the listing. It is beautifully maintained with all that you need for a self catering holiday. The rooms are spacious and fresh, the outside area is very large, well kept and the hot tub is luxury. We are two adults and three teenagers and had a brilliant break away. Our main stay was for the youngsters to go to Alton Towers which is less than 15 minutes away. The village is lovely to walk through, there is a castle and historic buildings a stone throw away from the cottage. It does have two quaint pubs next to one another with large pretty gardens, offering home cooked foods. Also a couple of grocery shops for top ups. We really recommend this lovely cottage and the owners are so helpful should you need anything at all.

Beautiful property. Really enjoyed our stay. It's a peaceful area.

Claire

The old parlour is one of the best holiday home rentals Ive ever stayed at. Weve stayed around this area many times for years now. With the kids and me, as a big kid loving the rides at Alton Towers. Not only is this property is fabulously located being just down the road from the theme park entrance. But is has everything you could need during your stay available, offering a very comfortable well presented environment both inside and out. The house has been decorated to a high standard, it really is as lovely as it looks in the photos and it has additions such as the games room which was a great hit with the kids. The outside space at this property is amazing and the hot tub was a great addition especially having that and the outdoor furniture under the shelter area. This meant we could relax outside after a busy day running around Alton Towers, no matter what the typical British summer was trying to throw at us. Thank you for the lovely welcome pack, this was a great starter to our little break. We will definitely be back.

WE have stayed in many lodges, cottages and even narrowboats but nione of them come up to the standard of the old parlour. It was spotlessly clean on arrival, arrival instructs were spot on, the barn was spacious plenty of spece in the bedrooms and a very large outside area that included a covered hot tub area with table and seats ans garden swing hamock,Kelly was on hand day or night if we needed anything but of course we did not, the barn is located minutes from the village and it is perfect for those wanting to visit Alton Towers being only 5 mins away, this is a wonderful place and i sugest you get booked in now before it is fully booked.

Leave a Review

The Old Parlour, Alton

About The Old Parlour

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

August Daylight

Practical Essentials

Mobile Phone Signal

Nearest Essentials

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

Spotlessly Clean

Hot Tub Heaven

Perfect Location

Spacious Layout

Games Room Fun

Attentive Host

Getting To The Old Parlour

By Car

By Train

Attractions & More Nearby

Is The Old Parlour Right For You?

For Families

For Couples

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Bulls Head

The Alton Bridge Hotel

The White Hart

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

The Old Parlour Reviews