Stratford-upon-Avon’s connections to The Bard are what makes this a must-see destination for many hop-on-hop-off tours of the UK. But, in addition to the world class offering of the Royal Shakespeare Company; the beautifully kept museums of his homes; his old school; and the incredible Tudor buildings that survive from Shakespeare’s lifetime, Stratford-upon-Avon is also a lively market town on the Avon River, 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 in Stratford (a few even boast private parking), some of the best places to stay are actually just outside of town, surrounded by the rolling views of Warwickshire.

For many people the highlight of a stay in one of the best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon is an evening at the theatre. Some people travel around the world for the experience, while others just pop up from London for a mini break or weekend away. The theatrical schedule is a wonderfully varied and movable feast, so it can be difficult to tell when the best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon will be busy, and this is definitely one of those destinations where it certainly pays to book well in advance. Especially if you’re booking a show to correspond with your stay.

The town's other main sights are mostly Shakespeare themed, but Stratford upon Avon is also supposed to be 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. 'Ghost central' is probably The Falstaff Experience which is a Tudor Museum and famously haunted building. As well as the Tudor and theatrical themed highlights of the town, Stratford upon Avon is close to the magnificent turrets of Warwick Castle, the romantic ruins of Kenilworth Castle and the rolling hills and meadows of the Cotswolds. Shakespeare's birthplace was a house on Henley Street, 16th Century, kept in good 'working order'. The same can be said of Ann Hathaway's Cottage where Shakespeare would have done his wooing. The Bard is buried in the Holy Trinity Church - surprisingly this church is very definitely a working church, not a tourist attraction, so be respectful. It has a Butterfly Farm for something a bit different.

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 on this rambling warren of staircases and snugs, and the best of them have original beams and whitewash, or even a fireplace of four-poster bed. The restaurant is just as authentic as the pub and rooms, with wood-panels and superlative British fare.

For a Mini Break

• The Hotel du Vin Stratford upon Avon occupies a neatly Lego-esque, 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 statementy, with feature carpets and wallpapers, art, and lovely woollen rugs and cushions.
• The Church Street Townhouse is in the bustling, timber-framed heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, close to the Bard’s houses, and to the theatres. It has 12 rooms and suites, simply decorated in bold colours, but with feature wallpaper for added flair. They all have Nespressso machines and fancy toiletries too. Our Gurus enjoyed the bar, and the bistro, with is also popular among locals. They also do a very nice afternoon tea.

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, so it might surprise you to hear that it’s also got 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 flash contemporary bathrooms. Both styles of room are quite luxurious, and there’s a restaurant and bar to match. This is the sort of hotel with fancy afternoon teas and interconnecting family suites.
• 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 with classic hotel style and comfort. The restaurant is very good, and there’s a private dining option.

For a Countryside Escape

• The 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 to feel peaceful, and like a country house escape, but close enough for easy access to the theatre. Inside there are 48 rooms and suites, plus a lovey pool and spa, and 2 AA Rosette dinging in the stylish restaurant.
• Baraset Barn is a popular restaurant-with-rooms just outside Stratford-upon-Avon. The restaurant takes centre stage in the barn, with the 16 rooms and suites radiating around it, decorated with contemporary chic, and a preference for fancy headboards. Our Gurus’ favourite rooms have private terraces. The restaurant has an Asian twist to its innovative menu.
• The Bell at Alderminster is a charming country hotel overlooking Warwickshire’s peaceful rolling countryside. It has just nine rooms, all smart, and comfortable, with simple flair and memorable details. Our Gurus especially appreciated the menu, and the fact that food could be served in the restaurant, or on a terrace in the garden.

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

• Stratford-upon-Avon’s closest airport is Birmingham, which is well connected to the rest of the UK and Europe. From Birmingham Airport, Stratford-upon-Avon is about half an hour away by car or taxi, or just under two hours by public transport. If you’re travelling via London, the quickest way to travel via public transport is by train, from either Marylebone via Royal Leamington Spa, or Euston Station, via Birmingham. If you’re driving it will take about two hours.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Summer is the most popular time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon, but’s partly because of the school holidays, and the fact that many people visit the UK as a whole during the summer. It’s a great time for boating on the Avon, outdoor dining and RSC garden productions. Spring is a nice time to visit, Shakespeare’s birthday is in April and directly after the birthday celebrations there’s 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, and usually an impressive bonfire night, and Halloween celebrations.

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Warwickshire? or even the Cotswolds?
• Or consider some of Stratford-upon-Avon’s neighbours? like the best places to stay in Cheltenham? or Broadway?
• Or you could refine your search by the kind of holiday you’re planning and consider our Gurus’ recommendations for the best Pubs-with-Rooms in Warwickshire? or the best country house hotels in the Cotswolds? or the most romantic places to stay in the Cotswolds?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.