Stay in the Arden Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon

Perched on Waterside directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, The Arden Hotel is one of Stratford-upon-Avon’s best-known boutique places to stay. This elegant riverside spot combines a central location with a relaxed, grown-up feel, making it a natural choice if you want to step out of the front door and straight into the town’s theatres, riverside walks and historic streets.

Inside, the emphasis is on style and comfort rather than formality. The hotel’s smart bar, restaurant and higher-end feel are well suited to theatre weekends, anniversaries and special occasions, while on-site parking is a real bonus in this part of town. Many guests choose The Arden as their base for exploring Shakespeare’s home town by day and enjoying the Royal Shakespeare Theatre by night.

Rooms & comfort

As a boutique hotel, The Arden focuses on stylish, thoughtfully designed rooms rather than standard chain-hotel layouts. Expect a comfortable mix of practical rooms that can work for solo travellers, couples and small groups who want to stay together, with décor that feels a notch more individual than you would find in a larger branded hotel.

You can typically expect the level of comfort that comes with a higher-end town-centre hotel: en-suite bathrooms, cosy bedding and the usual in-room touches that make a short break or longer stay more relaxing. If a particular view or room layout matters to you – perhaps looking towards the theatre buildings or the River Avon – it is best to check directly with the hotel when you book.

Food, drink & facilities

The Arden boasts a smart bar and restaurant, which are a big part of what draws people to stay here. Having food and drink available on site is particularly handy if you are catching an evening performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre; you can relax with a drink beforehand and return afterwards without needing to cross town in search of somewhere still serving.

As with many hotels of this kind, you can generally expect breakfast to be available for residents, alongside lunches or dinners on selected days, though menus and opening times do change, so it is always worth checking the hotel’s website for the latest details. The focus is on providing a comfortable town-centre base rather than a full-scale resort, so if you are specifically looking for facilities such as a spa, gym or swimming pool, you should confirm what is available directly with the hotel before booking.

Location & getting around

Location is one of The Arden Hotel’s biggest selling points. Sitting on Chapel Lane, just off Waterside, it faces the Royal Shakespeare Theatre across the road and is moments from the River Avon. From here, it is easy to wander along the riverfront, explore Bancroft Gardens, or stroll into the historic streets around Shakespeare’s Birthplace and the town’s independent shops and cafés.

Being right in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon also makes this a convenient place to stay if you are planning boat trips on the river, guided walking tours or simply an afternoon browsing the town’s markets. When you are ready to venture further afield, the wider Warwickshire countryside, nearby villages and attractions are within easy reach by car, with on-site and nearby paid parking taking the stress out of arriving in the centre.

If you are coming by train or coach, local taxis can bring you from the station or drop-off points to the hotel in just a few minutes, so you will not feel cut off without your own vehicle.

Who this hotel is great for

The Arden Hotel’s boutique style, riverside setting and position opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre mean it will particularly appeal to certain types of visitor:

• Theatre-goers who want a place to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon where they can step out of the door and be at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in moments.
• Couples looking for a romantic, higher-end boutique hotel with a riverside feel and stylish interiors.
• Travellers who prefer a smart, central hotel with its own bar and restaurant rather than a large chain on the outskirts of town.
• Drivers who value having on-site and nearby paid parking in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon.
• Dog owners who want a central, boutique base in Stratford-upon-Avon with selected dog-friendly rooms available.
• Visitors planning a Shakespeare-focused break who want to be within easy reach of the town’s main sights and river walks.

Practical details

• Address: Chapel Ln, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6BA
• Telephone: +44 1789 298682
• Email: See website for latest contact details
• Website: https://www.theardenhotelstratford.com/
• Price band: £££ – higher-end, among the more premium places to stay in town.
• Dog-friendly: Yes – selected dog-friendly rooms are available; charges apply and advance booking is essential.
• Wheelchair access: Yes – the hotel is wheelchair accessible with disabled bays in the car park; contact the team to discuss specific room and access needs.
• Parking: On-site and nearby paid parking, subject to availability and charges.
• Opening hours / reception: Mon–Sun: 24 hours
• Seasonal notes: The Arden often promotes seasonal packages and offers; check the hotel website for current deals before you book.

If you have particular accessibility or itinerary requirements, it is always worth speaking to the hotel team in advance so they can advise on the best room options and latest information.

Frequently asked questions about The Arden Hotel

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

The Arden Hotel sits directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre on Waterside, making it one of the most convenient places to stay for an evening at the RSC.

Does The Arden Hotel have parking?

Yes, The Arden offers on-site and nearby paid parking, which is particularly useful given its central location. Charges and availability can vary, so it is best to check directly with the hotel before you arrive.

Is The Arden Hotel dog-friendly?

Yes, The Arden Hotel is dog-friendly in selected rooms, with a fee per dog per stay. It is always best to confirm dog-friendly availability and any restrictions directly with the hotel when you book.

What type of guest is The Arden Hotel best suited to?

The Arden Hotel is especially popular with theatre-goers, couples and travellers who want a higher-end boutique hotel in the very centre of Stratford-upon-Avon, with easy access to the river, town centre and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.