Not long after visiting Hydra, my husband James and I travelled at Mizar in Staffordshire. This trip, the vibe was all about romance and reset. Hidden deep in Swynnerton’s ancient woodlands, Mizar was deliciously secluded (the last stretch involves a magical 300-metre walk through the trees) and this is exactly the point. This cabin truly felt a world away from everyday life and offering immediate calm upon arrival.
Inside, I found a very similar snug set-up, very similar to Hydra (read my review here), warmed by a wood-burning stove. The vast windows brought the outdoors in, so even curled up on the plush king-size bed, or sipping our coffee, we felt immersed in nature in this woodland retreat. For once, we had nothing on our agenda. The recent summer school holidays had been crazy busy, so this was our chance to slow down and simply ‘be’ in the woodland.
Mizar’s standout feature is its outdoor deck with a sunken bathtub, and it is as dreamy as it sounds. Soaking under a blanket of stars is an utterly magical experience. Few settings could be more romantic: starlit bathing in the heart of ancient woodland, with nothing to disturb us but the occasional owl.
With no WiFi and patchy signal in our woodland retreat, phones stayed tucked away (aside from snapping a few photos of that incredible bath). We played a couple of the provided board games before drifting into the best night’s sleep we’d had in ages. Morning brought coffee on the decking, crisp autumn air, and the forest slowly coming to life around us.
Mizar also offers woodland walks right from the doorstep, and we even took a short stroll into Swynnerton village for a delicious meal at the award winning Fitzherbert Arms. It is a great balance: total privacy when you want it, yet civilisation close enough if you fancy a pint.
This cabin gave us exactly what we needed; space for stillness, for breathing, for simply being. For couples, it’s hard to beat: private, romantic and offers a great reminder that sometimes the greatest luxury is pressing pause together in a woodland retreat.
What’s Included in a Shacks Cabin
One of the best things about staying with Shacks is that everything essential is provided, so you can pack light. Cabins come with fresh bed linen, toilet toll, handwash, towels, cutlery, crockery and cooking basics. There’s a two-ring gas hob, pans, mugs, glasses, a cafetière, and even a grinder with locally roasted beans. Logs, kindling and firelighters are supplied for the wood burner and fire pit, while eco-friendly toiletries are stocked in the bathroom.
Each cabin has its own composting toilet but don’t be put off. This is no festival-style loo; it’s cleverly designed, odour-free and feels surprisingly ‘posh’. The bathrooms themselves are lovely, with sleek finishes and a strong hot shower. The only thing to bear in mind is that everything is powered by solar, so you’re encouraged to be mindful of water and electricity use. Far from being a compromise, this conscious approach feels in keeping with the off-grid ethos, and makes you appreciate every hot shower and every cup of coffee that little bit more.
What to Bring: While the cabins are well equipped, a few extras can elevate your stay:
Warm layers: Evenings get chilly, especially if you’re sitting out under the stars.
Walking boots or sturdy shoes: Most cabins involve a short walk from the car, and there are trails right on the doorstep.
Torch or headlamp: Essential for late-night trips outside or finding your way back from the Wild Sauna in Hydra’s case.
Swimsuit, towel and flip-flops: Ideal for the outdoor bath at Mizar or for sauna sessions in North Wales.
Favourite food and drink: There’s no shop nearby, so bring your supplies. A bottle of wine or flask of hot chocolate makes evenings by the fire even better.
A good book or journal: With no WiFi, this is the perfect chance to read uninterrupted or jot down reflections.
In short: bring what makes you comfortable, but know you won’t need much. The whole point is to strip things back and enjoy the simple pleasures.
The Power of Going Off-Grid
Both Hydra and Mizar show how stepping off the grid can be transformative. Whether in a wild Welsh valley with a sauna or in a sheltered English woodland retreat hideaway, these cabins gave me the same gift: time, presence and connection. The richest conversations often happen once the screens are switched off.
Mizar (Staffordshire)
Sleeps 2, pet-friendly, with outdoor bath. Located near Swynnerton.
Price: from around £327 for a 3-night stay off-peak (approx. £110 per night).
For latest details, availability and to book, visit shacks.co.uk.
Review and images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
