THE LOCATION

You can’t get much more in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon than The Arden. It’s a stone’s throw from the RSC and walking distance from local pubs, bars and shops – so perfect for all your day and night time exploits.

Mercifully there’s a car park out back so you’re spared the nightmare of parking in town. If you want to eat in, there’s award-winning No. 44 The Brasserie, a bar for drinks and a beautiful champagne terrace perfect for kicking back with a bottle of Veuve and watching the world go by.

THE VIBE

It’s not lacking in luxury – light and airy but with loads of hidden nooks and crannies to nurse a drink (and the wine list is pretty good so no worries there) – think squishy armchairs galore and a covered terrace for warmer weather, with heaters for when the sun goes down.

It’s no surprise that like most of the buildings in this part of town, The Arden’s got a historical link to the Bard. The property itself dates back to the 17th century and Shakespeare is believed to have written some of his works in the (absolutely stunning) gardens. Nights where you can book RSC tickets and a room together have proven very popular… well you do only have to cross the road to reach the theatre. In summer you can take your drinks alfresco and literally hear the shows taking place at the RSC’s Holloway Garden outdoor theatre, and there’s regularly a jazz musician performing on the terrace too, so there’s always a great buzz about the place.

SCOFF & QUAFF

The hotel’s onsite No. 44 Brasserie on the Waterside deservedly boasts two AA rosettes with a small but varied seasonal menu. Service is attentive but not intrusive and for a Friday night when I visited it was steadily busy with couples and groups of friends. It’s more fine dining than other restaurants in town but don’t feel the need to overdress – its definitely more smart/casual.

To drink we shared a bottle of the Mannara Pinot Grigio, a deliciously crisp, dry rose perfect for a warm summer night. It was perfect with my bao bun starter – two fluffy homemade buns absolutely overflowing with teriyaki Hereford beef fillet with slaw, miso soy dressing, artichoke crisps and a sherry vinegar gel. I honestly just could have ate these all night, don’t miss out on ordering them!

I was honestly stuck on what to order for mains, there are so many delicious-sounding meals. I went with the wild mushroom gnocchi (though the trio of sliders were also calling my name). It was pretty plate, in a moreish courgette and basil cream, king oyster mushroom and sweet onion consommé. The gnocchi was homemade (of course) and a big hit of flavour. I was sad by the time I’d finished it that I still had so much of that delicious sauce left, so ordered some breads to mop it up.

You’d think after that I’d be full. And you’d be right, but I can’t turn down the Arden’s cheeseboard, piled high with British cheeses, fruit chutney, crunchy grapes and crackers. It’s a real triumph. If you’ve got a sweet tooth then the ‘Strawberries and Cream’ is light but decadent.

STAY

Despite its apparent intimacy The Arden has 45 boutique rooms either with views of the pretty grounds, RSC or River Avon. You won’t have to look for your room number – they’re named after trees, a nod to the nearby Forest of Arden. The rooms have a lovely open feel with classic but luxurious decor, a huge wardrobe (complete with obligatory fluffy robes), safe and milk in the fridge ready for that morning cuppa. All rooms have super comfy king size beds, and the blackout curtains promise a good lie in (so book that included breakfast for 10am). Bathrooms are kitted out with products from spa favourites Temple Spa and there’s an edition of local paper the Stratford Herald waiting when you arrive, which is a nice touch.

Rooms are a lot bigger than some other Stratford town centre hotels and come in a similar price range – at around £160 for a classic room with breakfast.

DOG FRIENDLY

Is this the most dog-friendly hotel in Stratford? I think so. Book into one of the dog-friendly rooms and your four-legged-friend will receive a doggy bag with treats and a toy, bed and dog bowls for the stay, and a breakfast sausage. It’s £25 per dog, per stay, and there’s some gorgeous riverside walks to keep them happy.

OUT & ABOUT

Obviously the main calling card for The Arden is it’s smack bang in the centre of Stratford. Theatres are all within walking distance as is Shakespeare’s birthplace and Holy Trinity Church where his grave lies. Visit tourist attractions like Magic Alley or the MAD Museum or jump in a boat and head down the Avon. There’s great shopping with a mix of high street shops like Joules and Fat Face, and a host of independents too like Gemini and MOR Bakery (make sure you grab a pastry before you head home).

If you fancy venturing out a little further there’s Warwick and Kenilworth castles and loads of shopping in the regency town of Leamington. Bicester Village with some 150 shops is just 45 mins down the road.

THE MUDDY VERDICT

GOOD FOR: What’s not to like? Luxurious yet understated in a pretty perfect location – and you can take your dog!

NOT FOR: Probably not the place for a family break with the little ones, but leave them with granny and grandad and have a night off!

The Arden Hotel, Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6BA

01789 298682 theardenhotelstratford.com