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Hotels · England, England

The Arden Hotel Stratford-upon-Avon

  • CategoryMid Range

The Arden Hotel occupies a prime position on Waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England, directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on the north bank of the River Avon. Named in honour of Mary Arden, the mother of William Shakespeare, the hotel is housed in a Grade II-listed building that has been thoughtfully modernised to combine historic Warwickshire character with contemporary styling throughout.

Directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on the banks of the River Avon, The Arden Hotel is the ideal base for theatre-goers and Shakespeare enthusiasts. The Grade II-listed building has been thoughtfully modernised while retaining its period character. The Bard's Bar and Rooftop Terrace overlook the theatre.

The Arden Hotel occupies a prime position on Waterside in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England, directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on the north bank of the River Avon. Named in honour of Mary Arden, the mother of William Shakespeare, the hotel is housed in a Grade II-listed building that has been thoughtfully modernised to combine historic Warwickshire character with contemporary styling throughout. The hotel's 45 rooms and suites are individually styled with period references and modern comforts, including quality bed linen, flat-screen televisions, and en-suite bathrooms with quality fittings. The Rooftop Terrace Bar, open in fair weather from late spring through summer, provides unobstructed views across the river to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre's distinctive modern facade and is one of the most scenically rewarding spots in Stratford for afternoon drinks. Bard's Bar at ground level serves cocktails named after Shakespeare's plays and is a convivial gathering place for pre- and post-theatre guests. The hotel's restaurant serves modern British cuisine using seasonal Warwickshire and Midlands produce and is popular with both hotel guests and visitors from the town. The Arden's most significant advantage is its unique proximity to the Royal Shakespeare Company: guests can book RSC performance packages through the hotel, with allocated theatre tickets and dining arrangements coordinated in advance. Stratford-upon-Avon is a compact and walkable market town, and most Shakespeare-associated properties — his birthplace on Henley Street, Anne Hathaway's Cottage at Shottery, and Hall's Croft on Old Town — are within twenty minutes on foot. Birmingham is 30 miles and the Cotswolds begin approximately 20 miles south.

Location

52.1916, -1.7084 View on map

Highlights

  • RST views from rooftop terrace
  • River Avon location
  • Bard's Bar
  • Shakespeare properties nearby
  • Theatre packages

Tips for visiting

  • Book a combined hotel and RSC theatre package for the simplest way to secure Royal Shakespeare Company performance tickets.
  • The Rooftop Terrace Bar is best enjoyed in good weather; check the forecast before planning an evening up top.
  • Anne Hathaway's Cottage is a pleasant 20-minute walk through Warwickshire countryside; pick up a town map at reception.
  • Stratford-upon-Avon is considerably quieter mid-week; weekends and school holidays bring large visitor numbers to the Shakespeare sites.
  • Birmingham International Airport is approximately 30 minutes by car, making the hotel accessible for international visitors arriving by air.

Accessibility

The Arden Hotel has lift access within the main building and accessible rooms with adapted bathrooms and wider doorways. The Waterside location is on a flat, pedestrian-friendly street suitable for wheelchair users. Guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact the hotel before booking to confirm room suitability and discuss specific needs.

Frequently asked questions

How close is The Arden Hotel to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre?

The Arden Hotel is directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on the other side of Waterside. Guests cross the road to reach the theatre entrance, making it the closest hotel to the RSC in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Can the hotel arrange RSC theatre tickets?

Yes, The Arden Hotel offers theatre packages that bundle accommodation with allocated RSC performance tickets. These packages are popular and should be booked well in advance, particularly for high-demand productions and weekend performances.

What is Stratford-upon-Avon like as a destination?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a historic market town in Warwickshire, most famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Beyond the Shakespeare heritage sites, it offers pleasant river walks, a butterfly farm, and is within easy reach of Warwick Castle and the Cotswolds.

Is there parking at The Arden Hotel?

The hotel has a limited number of parking spaces; guests should contact the hotel before arrival to check availability. Several public car parks within short walking distance of the hotel are available in the town centre.

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The Arden Hotel Stratford-upon-Avon

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