Elite Traveler HRS 2023

etr li at ve eler HOTELS, RESORTS & SPAS 2023 77

THE TAWNY STAFFORDSHIRE, UK

The outdoor pool

Situated in the heart of rural Sta ff ordshire (around three hours from London), The Tawny’s style was born of necessity rather than choice. The hotel sits inside Consall Hall Estate, a 70-acre plot with a history dating back to the 13th century. Along with the hotel’s creation, the estate’s lush gardens have been restored to their former glory. But that restoration, along with the hotel’s construction, had to be done under the watchful eye of Historic England, a body that protects the country’s most culturally signi fi cant sites. The result is a hotel like nothing else. There are 55 accommodations across the site, but you would be hard-pressed to locate them all. Each blends unobtrusively into the stunning surroundings, giving each guest a sense of freedom to explore the many winding paths. This is the English countryside at its very best and, despite being dangerously exposed to the UK’s idea of summer, The Tawny feels seriously luxurious. accommodations, starting with cozy Shepherds Huts all the way up to spacious Retreats complete with king-size beds. The best views, however, are reserved for the Hillside Treehouses. These timber-framed cabins have all the hallmarks of their namesake. The outside is clad in natural wood, which will blend into the scenery as it ages. Each interior has been individually designed, but all follow the same theme of modern furnishings, contemporary art and a plush bed. You will, however, spend most of your time on the balcony, which o ff ers a truly stunning view across the landscape. There’s enough space to enjoy one of the hotel’s one-on-one yoga sessions, and a sizable outdoor bathtub to rest sore muscles afterwards. Facing west, each Treehouse is treated to a daily sunset view, which can be enjoyed through fl oor-to ceiling windows if the weather is inhospitable. And there is plenty of reason to stay inside as well. Room service will deliver a fi ne pizza to your door on demand, and a mini bar comes included in your rate and is re fi lled daily. DINE Very little of the old Consall Manor remains. In its place, the hotel has built a striking owl-shaped structure that resides over the gardens from the property’s highest point. Its glass facade shimmers from every angle and, despite its modernistic design, STAY The Tawny o ff ers a variety of di ff erent

The Tawny

The boathouses

it fi ts elegantly into its surroundings as if it had always been there. Inside, you’ll fi nd something equally impressive: The Plumicorn Restaurant. The Plumicorn (named after the tuft of an owl’s head) is the jewel in the hotel’s crown. Head chef Chris Alexander has created a hugely impressive menu that makes best use of local and seasonal ingredients. He utilizes long-established

relationships with local suppliers to source the best meat, fi sh and vegetables before transforming them into inventive, yet recognizable, fi ne dining dishes. If available on the day you go, the chic lobster tail served with tru ffl e pomms anna and a bisque croquette is a must. By Alex Martin From $605 per night. Contact +33 1538 787664, thetawny.co.uk