Top 10 Best Hotels in Staffordshire Moorlands

Staying in the Staffordshire Moorlands

The Staffordshire Moorlands welcomes visitors with a wonderful variety of accommodation. Its hotels range from traditional coaching inns and family-run country hotels to lakeside retreats and themed resort hotels. Whatever the style, the best properties share a warm welcome, comfortable rooms and easy access to the region's landscapes and attractions.

Visitors typically come for walking on the Roaches and Hen Cloud, exploring the Manifold Valley, sailing and boating on Rudyard Lake, visiting the historic market town of Leek or enjoying a day at Alton Towers. Choosing a hotel close to your planned activities helps you make the most of your stay.

What Makes a Great Moorlands Hotel

Great hotels in the area combine comfortable accommodation with excellent food, often showcasing local produce. Many welcome dogs and provide drying rooms for walkers. Free parking, good Wi-Fi and attentive service are expected, while views of the surrounding countryside add a special touch.

The Top 10 Hotels

1. Three Horseshoes Inn and Country Hotel

Set at Blackshaw Moor with views towards the Roaches, the Three Horseshoes is one of the area's best-loved country hotels. It combines characterful rooms, a popular restaurant and a relaxed bar, making it ideal for walkers, couples and special celebrations.

2. Hotel Rudyard

Located close to Rudyard Lake, this hotel offers a peaceful base for exploring the lake, its heritage railway and surrounding countryside. Its tranquil setting and convenient location appeal to leisure travellers and wedding guests alike.

3. Peak Weavers Hotel, Leek

Peak Weavers is a characterful hotel in the heart of Leek, housed in a historic building with a story tied to the town's heritage. It offers easy access to Leek's independent shops, markets and restaurants, as well as a comfortable base for exploring the Moorlands.

4. Alton Towers Hotel

The Alton Towers Hotel is a themed resort hotel located within the theme park estate. Families appreciate imaginative room designs, on-site dining and the convenience of being moments from the rides and attractions.

5. Splash Landings Hotel

Also part of the Alton Towers Resort, the Splash Landings Hotel is themed around a Caribbean adventure and connects directly to the resort's waterpark. It is a fun, family-focused option for short breaks.

6. The Crewe and Harpur Arms, Longnor

This traditional inn in the village of Longnor sits in the heart of the upper Manifold and Dove valleys. Its rooms, hearty food and village setting make it a perfect base for walkers and cyclists exploring the northern Moorlands.

7. Alton Towers Woodland Lodges

For something different, the resort's woodland lodges offer self-contained accommodation with hotel-style services. Families enjoy extra space and privacy while still benefiting from resort facilities.

8. The Manifold Inn, Hulme End

Located at the start of the Manifold Way, this inn is popular with cyclists and walkers. Its comfortable rooms and welcoming pub atmosphere create an authentic Peak District experience.

9. Ye Olde Royal Oak, Wetton

This historic village inn near the Manifold Valley offers rural charm and access to some of the area's finest limestone scenery, including Thor's Cave. It is ideal for travellers seeking a quiet countryside escape.

10. The George, Alstonefield

Set in a picturesque village, The George is a traditional pub known for warm hospitality and quality food. Its location near Dovedale and the Manifold Valley makes it a favourite with walkers and visitors seeking an authentic village atmosphere.

Choosing the Right Hotel

Consider what you want from your trip. Families visiting Alton Towers will benefit from staying on site, while walkers may prefer village inns close to trails. Couples seeking romance might choose a country hotel with fine dining and views. Business travellers often prefer hotels in or near Leek with good connectivity and meeting facilities.

Hospitality Trends in the Region

Hotels and inns across the Moorlands are increasingly highlighting local food and drink, from Staffordshire oatcakes at breakfast to cheeses from nearby dairies and beers from regional breweries. Sustainability is also a growing focus, with properties adding electric vehicle charging and reducing waste. Dog-friendly accommodation continues to be in high demand, reflecting the area's popularity with walkers.

Tips for Booking

Book well in advance for summer weekends, school holidays and major events, particularly near Alton Towers. Midweek and off-season stays often offer better value and quieter surroundings. Check parking, accessibility and dining availability, especially at smaller inns where restaurant tables can fill quickly.

Dining Close to Your Hotel

One of the joys of staying in the Moorlands is the food. Village pubs serve hearty Sunday roasts and seasonal game, while Leek offers a growing number of independent restaurants, delis and cafés. Many inns source meat, cheese and vegetables from nearby farms, and local breweries supply ales that pair perfectly with traditional dishes. At weekends and during holiday periods, it is wise to reserve tables in advance, as popular dining spots can be fully booked by residents and visitors alike.

Accessibility and Families

Older inns may have steep stairs and uneven floors, so guests with mobility needs should ask about ground-floor rooms before booking. Families should check whether cots, interconnecting rooms or children's menus are available.

Final Thoughts

The Staffordshire Moorlands offers hotels as varied as its landscapes. Whether you want a cosy village inn, a lakeside retreat or a family-friendly resort hotel, you will find somewhere that makes your visit comfortable and memorable. Choose based on location, atmosphere and amenities to enjoy the very best of this beautiful region.