The Arden Hotel
Waterside, opposite the RSC theatres · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: The Arden Hotel
Boutique 45-room hotel on Waterside directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, with two AA rosette brasserie dining and its own parking.
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Arden Hotel
The Arden occupies a Georgian terrace on Waterside, directly across the road from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Swan. For anyone visiting Stratford specifically for the RSC, no hotel is better placed: the walk from the stage door to reception takes under a minute, which is the whole point of it. The hotel is an official RSC accommodation partner and runs its dining around performance times accordingly.
There are 45 rooms, individually styled, mixing classic furniture with bold fabrics and modern artwork. Views split between the hotel's own garden and courtyard, the River Avon and the theatres, and the quieter rooms sit at the rear. It is a boutique property rather than a grand one, so expect careful design and attentive service rather than sprawling public spaces. The hotel forms part of the Eden Hotel Collection, which was named AA Small Hotel Group of the Year for 2024-25.
Food is a genuine strength. The brasserie holds two AA rosettes and runs an accomplished pre-theatre menu, and there is a champagne bar and a terrace that catches the afternoon sun. Afternoon tea is served daily and books up at weekends. Practical points in its favour: on-site parking, which is scarce in this part of town, and a location that puts Bancroft Gardens, Holy Trinity Church and the Sheep Street restaurants all within a few minutes on foot. Rates are highest around major openings and in high summer.
What guests say
The room was too hot, the bed was uncomfortable, as were the pillows. I ended up trying to sleep on the floor by a open window. Both my wife and i had less than 2 hours sleep. Would we come back? No. the staff are polite and helpful in the dining room. The hotel does have great location, but is it worth the money? No. They have tried to make the hotel accessible. But there is a flight of stairs down to the dinning area, which has a stair lift, which is very basic. The lift can only be used with the assistance of a member of staff. So, as in our case, if nobody is available it cannot be used. Leaving my wife to struggle using the stairs.
2 months ago · via Google
We chose The Arden Hotel for our wedding, and we honestly could not have been happier with how everything turned out. From the very beginning, the team worked incredibly hard to accommodate all of our wishes. Every member of staff was warm, attentive and genuinely couldn’t do enough for us. From the initial meetings and food tastings, right through to the day itself, everything was handled with care and professionalism. The turnaround of the room from ceremony to dinner and then to the evening party was seamless, and everything ran so smoothly, which made the whole day feel effortless. A special thank you to Slava and Meet for accommodating our (sometimes fussy!) requests, and to everyone else involved, from Sai the hotel manager to Amelia serving guest drinks. You all played a part in making it such a wonderful occasion. We’re so grateful for everything you did to make our day so special. Thank you
4 months ago · via Google
My sister booked this hotel as a surprise for my husbands 60th birthday. We stayed for 2 nights and can not fault the hotel or the staff. The rooms were lovely, clean and bright (possibly a bit too warm with no way of changing temperature so we opened a window). I gave the staff a cake to bring to my husband at breakfast, they played music and the staff were just great. They fussed over my sisters dog, could not do enough for us. From Managers to cleaners, everyone was friendly and courteous. The breakfast was delicious with a good choice. Would definitely stay again.
5 months ago · via Google
A great place to visit for afternoon tea. A very relaxed environment. Very friendly, attentive staff. A special thank you Cerys who went above and beyond when looking after us. Would definitely recommend the Arden Hotel to anyone. We will definitely be returning.
a month ago · via Google
Guests mention this hotel offers delicious food, including afternoon tea and breakfast, and features comfortable, spacious rooms with amenities like robes and slippers. They also highlight the excellent, attentive, and friendly staff who go above and beyond. Visitors appreciate the perfect central location, convenient on-site parking, and relaxed atmosphere.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Chapel Lane, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6BA Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Waterside, opposite the RSC theatres
- Star rating
- 4 star
- Guest score
- 9.2 / 10 (1,900 reviews)
- Prices from
- £165 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Stratford-upon-Avon