The best hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon

In addition to the world-class offerings of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the beautifully-preserved museums of Shakespeare's homes and his old school, Stratford-upon-Avon is also a lively market town, and an excellent base for exploring the Cotswolds. While some of the best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon are just steps from the RSC’s theatre (a few even boast private parking), some of our favourite hideaways are set just outside of town, surrounded by the rolling views of Warwickshire.

For many people, the highlight of a stay in Stratford-upon-Avon is an evening at the theatre. Some travel around the world for the experience, while others simply pop up from London for a mini break or weekend away. The theatrical schedule is wonderfully varied, so it can be tricky to tell when the town will be at its busiest. Whatever the season, this is definitely a destination where it pays to book - both your hotel and your theatre tickets - well in advance. 

The town's other main sights are mostly Shakespeare themed, but Stratford is reputedly rife with ghosts and there are plenty of interesting historical walking tours you can join to hear some good tales — this is also a great way to meet jobbing actors. Stratford is appealingly close to the magnificent turrets of Warwick Castle, the romantic ruins of Kenilworth Castle and the rolling hills and meadows of the Cotswolds. Some of the best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon promise gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside -- perfect for unwinding in style.

The Best Places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Historic Charms

• The White Swan Hotel, with its Tudor beams and wonderful cosy pub, has kept many of its features — dating from around 1450 — and much of its welcome and charm too. There are 41 rooms and suites; the best of them have original beams and whitewashed walls, or even a fireplace or four-poster bed. The restaurant is just as authentic as the pub and rooms, with wood panelling and superlative British fare.

For a Mini Break

• The Hotel du Vin Stratford upon Avon occupies a neat row of red-brick Edwardian townhouses. It’s well-positioned for exploring the town, and has a top-notch French bistro. The decor in the 46 rooms and suites is quite bold, with feature carpets and wallpapers, art, and lovely woollen rugs and cushions.
• The Church Street Townhouse is in the bustling heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, close to the Bard’s house, and to the theatre. It has 12 rooms and suites, simply decorated in bold colours, but with feature wallpaper for added flair. They all have Nespresso machines and smart toiletries too. There's also a great bar and bistro, which are also popular with locals. 

For Theatre-goers

• The Hotel Indigo Stratford upon Avon is an historic choice, just behind Stratford’s row of theatres. It’s packed with historic details, and character too. There are 93 rooms and suites (some of them occupy a new extension to the building), so as well as the rooms with their wood panels and Tudor glass windows, there are also some more contemporary picks, with big windows, and sleek contemporary bathrooms. 
• The Arden Hotel is just across the road from the RSC, and you get a good view of everything from the bar and terrace. It has 45 rooms, decorated in classic style. The restaurant is very good, and there’s a private dining option.

For a Countryside Escape

• Ettington Park Hotel is a gloriously grand Neo-Gothic mansion turned country house hotel; beautiful on the outside and comfortable on the inside. It’s set on 40 acres of parkland six miles outside of Stratford-upon-Avon — far enough out to feel peaceful, and like a country house escape, but close enough to town for easy access to the theatre. Inside there are 48 rooms and suites, plus a lovely pool and spa, and 2 AA Rosette dining in the stylish restaurant.
• Baraset Barn is a popular restaurant-with-rooms just outside town. The restaurant takes centre stage in the barn, with the 16 rooms and suites radiating around it. All are decorated with contemporary chic style. Our favourite rooms have private terraces. 
• The Bell at Alderminster is a charming country hotel overlooking Warwickshire’s peaceful rolling countryside. It has just nine rooms, all smart and comfortable, decorated with simple flair and memorable details, and a restaurant serving delicious British cuisine.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Birmingham Airport, well-connected to the rest of the UK and Europe and just 30 minutes by road from Stratford-upon-Avon. If you’re travelling via London, the quickest way is by train, from either Marylebone via Royal Leamington Spa, or Euston Station, via Birmingham. 
• If you'd like to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Summer is the most popular time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon. It’s a great time for boating on the Avon, outdoor dining and RSC garden productions. Spring is a lovely time to visit — Shakespeare’s birthday is in April and directly after the birthday celebrations, the city hosts a literary festival. Spring also features a motoring festival, performances from the RSC, Easter flowers, and lambs, and it’s not so busy. In autumn there’s a food festival, an impressive bonfire night, and Halloween celebrations.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Warwickshire or even the Cotswolds.
• Consider some of Stratford-upon-Avon’s neighbours like the best places to stay in Cheltenham or Broadway.
• Refine your search and consider our Gurus’ recommendations for the best Pubs-with-Rooms in Warwickshire, the best country house hotels in the Cotswolds or the most romantic places to stay in the Cotswolds.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.