Watersview Lodge, Rudyard

Watersview Lodge is a modern 3-bedroom lodge sitting right on the banks of Rudyard Lake in Staffordshire. This lakeside retreat offers stunning water views and puts you just a 2-minute walk from the shoreline. Perfect for families or friends looking to escape the daily grind without actually having to try too hard.

The area around Rudyard Lake is a peaceful woodland setting where the loudest sound you'll hear is birds singing. Walk the lake shores, hire a boat, or watch paddleboarders from your deck with a favourite drink. There's even a miniature steam train that runs along the lake - because who doesn't love tiny trains? The disused railway line provides a scenic walk into Leek and the Hotel Rudyard is literally a 2-minute walk away for when cooking feels like too much effort.

The all-ground-floor accommodation includes a king-size bedroom with en-suite shower room, a second king-size bedroom and a third bedroom with adult bunk beds. There's an additional shower room, plus an open-plan living space with kitchen, dining and sitting areas. Everything's spotlessly clean - unlike your conscience after your third glass of wine in the hot tub.

Nearby attractions include the historic market town of Leek (3 miles, 10-minute drive), the spa town of Buxton (12 miles, 25 minutes), Alton Towers (14 miles, 30 minutes) and the Peak District National Park. The Sunday carvery at Hotel Rudyard comes highly recommended by previous guests.

Watersview Lodge is ideal for anyone wanting to combine outdoor activities with evening hot tub sessions. The heated balcony floor next to the hot tub means no cold feet when you finally drag yourself out. Bring nuts for the squirrels - they're apparently quite the entertainers.