4 Best places to stay in Stratford-upon-Avon

Wood-panelled walls, beamed ceilings and roaring fires – the White Swan has been welcoming guests since 1560, although the building dates back to the mid-15th century.  Step through the door and you could almost be in one of Shakespeare’s plays; much of the Tudor touches and furniture styles have been kept in the bar, along with the ‘character’ bedrooms – those housed in the oldest part of the building.

Newer rooms are less remarkable, although still extremely comfortable; after a day’s sightseeing, being able to just walk up to bed after dinner can be the biggest luxury of all.

Situated right in the heart of town (which can make parking something of a challenge), the White Swan is walking distance from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and the Royal Shakespeare Company. It’s a great choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in Stratford’s history, with a buzzy, informal pub feel.

Dating back to the 16th century, this revamped Stratford stalwart is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in Stratford’s literary heritage.

Behind the original Tudor black and white frontage, this is a very 21st-century affair, with rooms spread across the 16th-century building, a Georgian townhouse and a new wing. All feature Hypnos beds, spa-style bathrooms and Egyptian cotton, making these some of the luxiest rooms in town.

The Woodsman restaurant is carnivore heaven, with old-breed beef and lamb, and locally-produced venison all on the menu. A post-dinner nightcap in the Falcon bar, home to a mind-boggling array of whiskeys, is the perfect way to finish the night.

It’s located right next to New Place, Shakespeare’s former home, and is an easy walk from the other main sights and the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre.

There’s something delightfully surprising about the Stratford Townhouse; behind the pristine white interior lies an elegant boutique hotel, with twelve bedrooms richly furnished with lush velvet drapes, claw-footed baths and statement wallpapers that create a chic, boudoir feel.    

Steeped in history – the house dates back 400 years and is located opposite William Shakespeare’s former school – it still has a very contemporary feel. The dining room is one of the best places to eat in town, with a no-fuss menu of bistro classics, and the cute bar – complete with leather-topped stools. 

It’s located in the heart of the town – walking distance to the major attractions – making it a great base if you’re coming for sightseeing. 

Ideally situated in the heart of town, just a couple of minutes’ walk from Shakespeare’s birthplace and the RSC, this former gentleman’s club and registry office now sports classic Hotel du Vin style – slick rooms with dark blue walls and sumptuous beds, a buzzy bistro and a pleasing sense of indulgence.   

The cherry on the cake is the outdoor terrace; an oasis from the tourist bustle outside the door, serving drinks and dinner outside for as long as the weather allows.  

This is a great choice for those wanting a cosy yet stylish boutique, somewhere slick and unfussy, that’s walking distance to all of Stratford’s main sights.