5 Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon (That Actually Allow Dogs in the Bar)
Finding a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon that labels itself “dog-friendly” is easy. Most booking sites will show you dozens of options. But for dog owners, the devil is in the detail.
All too often, “dog-friendly” comes with a catch: “Dogs are welcome in the room, but not in any public areas.” This policy turns a relaxing getaway into a logistical headache, forcing you to leave your four-legged friend alone in an unfamiliar room every time you want a coffee, a drink, or a meal.
We believe a holiday should be for the whole family. To save you the stress, we have vetted the policies of the town’s top establishments to find the true hotels that genuinely welcome dogs into their lounges and bar areas.
Here are our top 5 picks for a truly inclusive hotel stay in 2025.
1. The Arden Hotel
`The Vibe: Luxury Theatre Retreat
Location: Waterside (Directly opposite the RSC Theatres)
If you want to spoil your pooch, The Arden is the undisputed king of canine hospitality in Stratford. While many luxury hotels turn their noses up at pets, The Arden rolls out the red carpet.
The “Dogs in Bar” Policy
This is one of the few high-end establishments where dogs are explicitly welcomed in the Club Bar and Lounge. This is a huge perk. Instead of ordering room service, you can enjoy a pre-theatre cocktail, a light lunch, or a full afternoon tea with your dog curled up comfortably at your feet.
Note: The main No.44 Brasserie restaurant is human-only, but the lounge menu is extensive enough that you won’t feel like you are missing out.
The Perks
The hotel charges a £25 per dog, per stay fee, but you get serious value for that money. On arrival, you will find:
- A “doggy bag” containing high-quality treats and a brand-new toy.
- A comfortable dog bed and bowls set up in your room.
- A breakfast sausage included for your dog in the morning.
Best Walk Nearby
You cannot beat this location. You are literally across the street from the River Avon and Bancroft Gardens. Perfect for that early morning fresh air.
2. Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa
The Vibe: Elizabethan Grandeur
Location: Alcester Road (3 miles from town centre)
If you want to escape the tourist crowds, Billesley Manor feels like a different world. This 16th-century manor house (where Shakespeare reportedly penned As You Like It) sits in 11 acres of grounds, meaning you don’t even need to leave the hotel for a great walk.
The “Dogs in Bar” Policy
While the main Stuart Restaurant is formal (and dog-free), the Great Hall and Bar area are extremely dog-friendly. With wood panelling, huge fireplaces, and squishy sofas, it is arguably a nicer place to sit than the dining room anyway.
The Perks
The fee is £25 per night. The real selling point here is the grounds. Unlike town centre hotels where you have to walk on pavements, here you can open the door and be straight onto grass and topiary gardens.
Best Walk Nearby
The hotel grounds connect to footpaths leading towards Wilmcote (home of Mary Arden’s Farm). It’s a proper countryside stomp, so bring wellies.
3. Hotel Du Vin
The Vibe: Chic & Boutique
Location: Rother Street (Town Centre)
Hotel Du Vin brings a touch of French flair to Stratford. It is famous for its bistro dining and extensive wine list, but it also has a surprisingly relaxed attitude towards pets.
The “Dogs in Bar” Policy
Dogs are very welcome in the bar and lounge area. This isn’t just a hallway; it’s a proper, comfortable space with leather armchairs and a roaring fire in winter. You can order from the bar menu, which includes many of the bistro classics (steak frites, burgers, charcuterie).
The Perks
The hotel charges £25 per night for dogs. They provide a bed and bowls in your room, meaning you can pack light. The rooms here are generally spacious, giving larger breeds plenty of room to stretch out.
Best Walk Nearby
You are right next to the town centre, but a 5-minute walk down Rother Street takes you to the canal path. Head west away from the basin for a quieter route.
4. The Swan’s Nest Hotel
The Vibe: Historic Riverside
Location: Bridgefoot (South side of the river)
One of the oldest brick hotels in Stratford, The Swan’s Nest sits right on the banks of the Avon. It’s large, reliable, and offers some of the best sunset views in town.
The “Dogs in Bar” Policy
Dogs are welcome in the hotel’s bar and lounge area. It’s a bright, spacious environment that feels less cramped than some of the older Tudor buildings. This makes it a great choice if you have a larger dog (like a Labrador or Retriever) that needs a bit more personal space.
The Perks
The fee is £20 per night. The hotel is physically attached to The Bear, a historic freehouse pub. The Bear is exceptionally dog-friendly and offers a completely different vibe (wood panels, cosy nooks) without you having to leave the building.
Best Walk Nearby
Cross the Tramway Bridge (pedestrian only) and you are on the Recreation Ground. It’s a vast green space where dogs can run off-lead (check signage) and swim in the river.
5. DoubleTree by Hilton
The Vibe: Modern Family Comfort
Location: Arden Street (Near the Station)
You might expect a big chain to be strict with rules, but the Stratford DoubleTree is refreshingly relaxed. It’s a modern hotel, which means wide corridors and excellent soundproofing—a godsend if your dog barks at noises.
The “Dogs in Bar” Policy
Dogs are allowed in the lounge bar area where food is served. The vibe here is very casual, making it a great spot for families with kids and dogs who just want a stress-free meal without worrying about “hotel etiquette.”
The Perks
They charge a £25.00 non-refundable fee per stay. You get the famous warm chocolate chip cookie on arrival (sadly, strictly humans only—chocolate is toxic to dogs!).
Best Walk Nearby
The hotel is adjacent to the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal. Turn right out of the hotel and find the towpath access for a traffic-free walk into town.
Summary: At a Glance
| Hotel | Dog Fee | Best For… |
|---|---|---|
| The Arden | £25 per stay | Luxury & Pampering |
| Billesley Manor | £25 per night | Country House Vibes |
| Hotel Du Vin | £25 per night | Couples & Wine Lovers |
| Swan’s Nest | £20 per night | River Views & Space |
| DoubleTree | £25 per stay | Families & Easy Parking |
Dog Owner’s Survival Guide to Stratford
Before you book, here are three local tips that tourist brochures won’t tell you:
1. The “Unattended” Rule
Almost all hotels in Stratford (including these 5) have a strict rule: dogs cannot be left unattended in the room. If you plan to see a play at the RSC or visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace (where dogs are not allowed inside), you will need a dog sitter. There are several local “doggy day care” services that offer half-day rates.
2. Parking Pains
Stratford is famous for its traffic wardens. If your hotel car park is full, do not chance it on a single yellow line. Check out our guide to Avoiding Parking Fines in Stratford to find the best long-stay spots where you can unload the car without stress.
3. Emergency Vets
Hopefully, you won’t need them, but it’s good to know. Avonvale Veterinary Centre (on the Birmingham Road) offers 24-hour emergency care and is just a short drive from all the hotels listed above.
