The exterior of Izaak Walton's Cottage, taken from the garden, on a sunny, summers day.
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Izaak Walton's Cottage

4.6
·31 reviews·Shallowford, United Kingdom

Step into the tranquil world of Izaak Walton, author of 'The Compleat Angler,' at his historic Staffordshire cottage and gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Open hours for visitors

CrowdMedium
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The exterior of Izaak Walton's Cottage, taken from the garden, on a sunny, summers day.

Izaak Walton's Cottage

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Open hours for visitors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the tranquil world of Izaak Walton, author of 'The Compleat Angler,' at his historic Staffordshire cottage and gardens.

4.6
(31 reviews)

"A beautiful cottage with plenty of history, an angler's delight and a peaceful place to relax."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Verify Opening Hours

Cottage is typically open Sundays, May-Sept. Always check current times!

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cottage Interior

The Cottage Interior

Inside the cottage

Explore rooms furnished as they would have been historically, offering a glimpse into Izaak Walton's life.

Reddit
Tranquil Gardens

Tranquil Gardens

Cottage gardens

Enjoy the ornate and peaceful gardens, perfect for picnics and relaxation.

Reddit
Angling History

Angling History

Exhibits within the cottage

Discover the life of Izaak Walton, the father of angling literature.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Days & Times

Izaak Walton's Cottage has limited opening hours, typically only on Sundays from May to September. Always verify current opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Embrace the Tranquil Setting

This historic cottage offers a peaceful escape with beautiful gardens. It's ideal for a relaxing picnic or a quiet afternoon immersed in history, perfect for unwinding. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Open hours for visitors
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for picnics
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Izaak Walton Inn #theshining #theshining1980 #izaakwalton #izaakwaltoninn #empirebuilder #solotravel #eatpraylovetravel
@jeffersonmccarley
7.7K likes • 162.9K views

🎯 Verify Opening Hours

Cottage is typically open Sundays, May-Sept. Always check current times! InstagramReddit+1

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch. Reddit

Last few hours in my Roomette. #solotravel #traindiaries #solotraveler #empirebuilder #scenicrailway #trainadventures #beautifuldestinations #railfan #eatpraylovetravel #izaakwaltoninn
@jeffersonmccarley
3.9K likes • 42.3K views
Open the door to Izaak Walton's Cottage - 🚪- Open every Sunday 1pm to 5pm...the hidden gem of Staffordshire
historicstafford
15 likes • 217 views

🚗 Parking Advice

On-site parking can be tricky; be prepared to park on a verge if needed. Reddit

🧸 Teddy Bear Events

Family-friendly events like the Teddy Bears Picnic are a hit with kids. InstagramReddit

Here's our Year In Review Advent Calendar. We will be showing you a special Virtual Tour each day until Christmas Day, all these tours were captured this year. Day 13 is Izaak Waltons Cottage. This is another of our virtual tours created for the OUR BEAUTIFUL BOROUGH project for Stafford Borough Council in collaboration with Verso Creative.
360pictureuk
0 likes • 52 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Verify Opening Hours

Cottage is typically open Sundays, May-Sept. Always check current times! InstagramReddit+1

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing picnic lunch. Reddit

🚗 Parking Advice

On-site parking can be tricky; be prepared to park on a verge if needed. Reddit

🧸 Teddy Bear Events

Family-friendly events like the Teddy Bears Picnic are a hit with kids. InstagramReddit

🚂 Train Proximity

Be aware that trains pass close by, which can be noisy. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(31 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Izaak Walton's Cottage for its historical significance, well-maintained grounds, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a delightful spot for history enthusiasts and families. While not a large museum, it offers a charming glimpse into the life of Izaak Walton and provides beautiful gardens for relaxation and picnics. Some find parking challenging and note the proximity of train tracks. Reddit+2

"If you are into history and angling, then it is a place to visit. It is well maintained in a beautiful part of Staffordshire. It is not the biggest museum, but it tells the story of a great man."

Grant Piland

"Visited for the first time yesterday as part of the Teddy Bears Picnic event with my 5 year old son. The event itself was fantastic, well thought out for little ones and a lovely location with beautiful views. Highlights were the magic shows, storytelling and looking around the cottage. It was a hot day but the staff at the cottage kept little ones nice and cool with paddling pools and gazebos. Thanks so much for a great day out 🙂"

Hannah Jayne

"A beautiful cottage. Lots of atmosphere. Very interesting with an introductory video and artefacts. Beautiful gardens with lots of space for picnics. Drinks and snacks available. Toilets on site. Open May to September. Sunday afternoon, 1pm to 5pm.Check opening and closing dates."

Lynda

What People Like

Historical atmosphere
Beautiful gardens
Peaceful setting

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Train noise

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Izaak Walton's Cottage is located on Worston Lane, Stone, ST15 0PA. While public transport details are scarce, driving is common. Be aware that on-site parking can be limited, and you might need to park on a verge. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is parking available on-site, but it can become difficult during busy periods. Visitors have noted needing to park on a verge. Reddit

Information on direct public transport routes is limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for Stone, Staffordshire, and plan your onward journey. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cottage is typically open on Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm, from May to September. It's crucial to check the official opening and closing dates for the year you plan to visit, as these can vary. InstagramReddit+1

Entry to Izaak Walton's Cottage is generally free. This makes it an accessible historical site for all visitors. Reddit

The cottage usually closes for the season at the end of September. The last day of opening for 2025 is mentioned as being in the autumn. Instagram

Yes, special events are held, such as the Teddy Bears Picnic, which is popular with families. These events often have specific timings and activities. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historically furnished rooms, learn about Izaak Walton's life and his connection to angling, and enjoy the tranquil gardens. There's also a book section and space for picnics. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The gardens are described as tranquil, ornate, and having numerous picnic tables, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors. Reddit

Yes, the cottage can be enjoyable for children, especially during special events like the Teddy Bears Picnic. There are often activities and a book section for younger visitors. InstagramReddit

Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, tranquil, and having a lot of history and charm. It's a place to relax and unwind. InstagramReddit

While specific photography rules aren't detailed, it's generally permitted to take photos inside historical houses for personal use. Always be respectful of the exhibits and other visitors. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a small tearoom offering hot drinks, and snacks are available. It's also a popular spot for picnics in the gardens. Reddit

Definitely! The gardens are well-suited for picnics, and visitors often bring their own food to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The charming cottage exterior, the peaceful gardens, and the historical interior all offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding Staffordshire countryside also provides scenic backdrops. Instagram+1

Specific restrictions are not widely mentioned, but it's always best practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Izaak Walton's Cottage offers a delightful experience for families. Special events like the Teddy Bears Picnic are a highlight, featuring magic shows and storytelling that captivate young imaginations. InstagramReddit

The cottage grounds are perfect for a family picnic, and during hot weather, staff have been known to provide paddling pools and gazebos to keep children cool. The historical setting and the gardens provide a gentle introduction to history and nature, making it an engaging and educational outing. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Anglers

For those passionate about history and angling, Izaak Walton's Cottage is a must-visit. The cottage provides a well-maintained glimpse into the life of the man behind 'The Compleat Angler,' showcasing artifacts and historical room settings. Reddit+1

Visitors can delve into Walton's biography and his significant contributions to angling literature. The peaceful atmosphere of the cottage and its gardens complements the contemplative nature of angling, offering a serene environment to connect with the past. InstagramReddit

🧘‍♀️ Peace Seekers & Relaxation

If you're looking for a quiet retreat, Izaak Walton's Cottage is an excellent choice. The tranquil gardens offer a perfect setting to read a book, enjoy a picnic, or simply unwind amidst peaceful surroundings. InstagramReddit+1

The cottage itself exudes a sense of calm and history, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's a place to reconnect with nature and enjoy a slower pace, making it ideal for those seeking mental well-being and relaxation. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Life and Legacy of Izaak Walton

Izaak Walton (1593–1683) was an English biographer and writer, most famous for The Compleat Angler. This seminal work, first published in 1653, is not just a guide to fishing but also a celebration of the pastoral life, nature, and contemplative pursuits. It has been in print continuously since its first publication and is considered a classic of English literature. Instagram

Walton's Cottage, his former residence, offers a tangible connection to this influential figure. Visitors can explore rooms that evoke the period and learn about his life beyond his famous literary work. The cottage itself is a testament to his enduring legacy, attracting those interested in history, literature, and the art of angling. InstagramReddit

The cottage and its grounds are maintained to reflect a sense of peace and historical authenticity. It serves as a quiet sanctuary, much like the natural settings Walton himself so admired and wrote about. The emphasis is on providing a relaxing experience that connects visitors to the past and the natural world. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Gardens and Surroundings

The gardens at Izaak Walton's Cottage are a significant draw, offering a tranquil and ornate escape. Described as peaceful and beautiful, they provide ample space for visitors to relax, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors. InstagramReddit

These gardens are particularly well-suited for picnics, with numerous tables available on the lawns. It's an ideal spot to bring a packed lunch and spend a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature. The setting is also noted for its connection to nature, encouraging visitors to appreciate the peaceful surroundings. InstagramReddit

It's worth noting that the cottage is situated near a train track, meaning trains do pass by periodically. While this can add a unique element for some, it also means occasional noise. However, the overall sentiment is that the tranquility of the gardens and the historical charm of the cottage outweigh this minor disruption for most visitors. Reddit

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