Rudyard Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Rudyard Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Rudyard Lake is the main attraction here - a 2.5-mile long reservoir that's brilliant for walking, boating and fishing. The lake has a 5-mile circular path that takes about 2 hours to complete. I've heard the west side offers better views but the east path is easier if you've got kids.

Rudyard Lake Steam Railway (ST13 8PF, open 11am-4pm weekends April-October) runs beautiful miniature steam trains along the eastern shore. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor with visitors praising the "lovely volunteers" and "reasonable prices" at £3 per adult.

The Roaches (SK17 0HN) is a spectacular rocky ridge just 15 minutes away by car. The unusual rock formations and views across Cheshire are worth the climb. TripAdvisor gives it 5/5 with comments like "breathtaking views" and "not too challenging for casual walkers".

Leek town (ST13 6AD) is just 3 miles away with its antique shops, markets and historic buildings. The Nicholson Institute houses a free art gallery and museum. We think the Wednesday outdoor market is particularly good for local produce.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love Rudyard's countryside setting. The lake path offers an excellent walk where dogs can splash at various access points. Most sections don't require a lead, but keep one handy for busier areas near the boathouse.

The Rudyard Hotel (ST13 8RN) welcomes dogs in their beer garden and bar area. They even provide water bowls and treats. Their Sunday roasts are particularly good after a long walk.

For rainy days, Leek's indoor market allows well-behaved dogs and many of the antique shops are dog-friendly too. Just ask before entering smaller shops.

If you're staying in a hot tub cottage with your dog, remember to bring extra towels for muddy paws after lakeside walks. The clay soil around Rudyard gets very sticky after rain!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Rudyard

1. Rudyard Lake Sailing Club (ST13 8RN) offers day visitor sailing experiences from £25 per person. Even if you don't sail, watching the boats from the shore makes a lovely afternoon. They run taster sessions most Saturdays from May to September. Book ahead on their website as they fill up quickly in summer.

2. The Rudyard Lake Trail covers the full 5-mile circuit of the lake. The eastern shore is easier walking but the western side gives better views and feels more remote. Look out for the Victorian boathouse and the dam at the southern end. One visitor called it "Staffordshire's hidden gem" on TripAdvisor.

3. The Lazy Trout pub (ST13 8UB) sits just outside Rudyard in Meerbrook. Their beer garden has fantastic views towards The Roaches. The food is excellent - their steak and ale pie won a regional award in 2022. They don't take bookings so arrive early (before 6pm) for dinner or you might wait for a table.

Is Rudyard Lake good for swimming?

Swimming isn't officially permitted in Rudyard Lake due to underwater hazards and boat traffic. The water can also be very cold even in summer. For swimming, head to Hathersage outdoor pool in the Peak District (30 minutes drive) or Waterworld in Stoke-on-Trent (25 minutes drive).

Can you hire boats on Rudyard Lake?

Yes, the Rudyard Lake Sailing Club offers boat hire during summer weekends. Rowing boats cost around £15 per hour. Electric boats are also available for £25 per hour. They don't take advance bookings - just turn up at the boathouse between 10am-4pm (weather permitting).

What's the best time to visit Rudyard?

Late spring (May-June) offers the best combination of decent weather and fewer crowds. Summer weekends get busy around the lake, especially when the steam railway is running. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the surrounding woodland. Winter can be magical after a light snow, but many facilities close.

Are there any good restaurants near Rudyard?

The Rudyard Hotel serves good pub food. In Leek (3 miles away), try The Roebuck for excellent steaks or The Quiet Woman for traditional British food. For something special, The Three Horseshoes Country Inn in Blackshaw Moor (15 minutes drive) has an award-winning restaurant.

Can I fish at Rudyard Lake?

Yes, fishing is permitted with a day ticket (£8) available from the ranger's office or boathouse. The lake contains pike, perch, bream and roach. You'll need a valid Environment Agency rod licence too. The north end of the lake tends to be less busy with anglers.

Is there a shop in Rudyard?

Rudyard itself has no shop. The nearest convenience store is in Horton, about 2 miles away. For proper shopping, Leek has supermarkets (Morrisons, Aldi, Asda) and independent shops. If you're staying in a hot tub cottage, I'd recommend stocking up in Leek before arrival.

Some helpful links:

1. Rudyard Lake Official Website
2. Visit Peak District Information
3. Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism Guide
4. Rudyard Lake Sailing Club