Macdonald Swan's Nest Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon

Advantages: Location, quality, food
Disadvantages: Price

...The first thing to say about the Shakespeare is that it's no longer a MacDonald - the hotel has been sold to the Mercure group, part of Accor. Although I couldn't give a toss about the brand on the letterhead, I overheard several guests commenting on the fact it was no longer a MacDonald hotel, so I guess it's important to some people. If you're one of them, be advised. Stratford-upon-Avon. One of my favourite places in the world. I've hung out with actors, been to the theatre more times than I can remember, messed about on the river and explored quite a few of the many bars and restaurants. One thing I haven't done often, though, is stay over. So when I booked tickets to both parts of Henry IV last month, I decided I'd do things properly. The Shakespeare Hotel is exactly what you'd expect of a hotel in Stratford. It's old... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: central location, good for shops, theatre etc
Disadvantages: parking not brilliant, can be V busy

...My wife and I have stayed at the Shakespeare on a number of occasions ( Christmas, Summer, Autumn ) over the last 5 years and the hotel has improved significantly during the time. The restaurant is good quality and the wine list extensive. The bedrooms we have stayed in have all been nicely furnished and recently redecorated. The main lounges are a little 'tired' and in need of redecoration, this was supposed to happen in 2005 but was postponed. The hotel is always busy - probably because it is the best town centre hotel in Stratford, and because of its central location - 5 minutes walk to the theatre and river, 30 seconds to the main shopping streets. Staff are always friendly and welcoming. All in all the hotel is well worth a visit. We have stayed at the Shakespeare twice for Christmas and it is not cheap - over £400 each... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Picturesque surroundings,large rooms,very clean,historical building
Disadvantages: Pricey for some

...Welcombe Hotel,Spa&Golf Course I have recently spent two weeks in the most beautiful hotel I've seen in UK! The Menzies Welcombe Hotel, Spa & Golf Course. The hotel is a part of a hotel chain called Menzies Hotels! It is a 4**** hotel set in the middle of 157 acres of land, surrounded by a 18 holes championship golf course and attached to a spa complex with swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, beauty shop & separate apartments. You only need to travel about a mile outside Shakespeare's birthplace Stratford-upon-Avon and it is very well signposted by large blue signs from the main Warwick Road. It is trully large impressive manor house that will take your breath away as you enter! The reception and lounge are absolutely huge and filled with period furniture and massive oil paintings (all original)! The wooden staircase will take you up... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful