Nestled on the iconic Chapel Street, adorned with its historic half-timbered buildings, right at the heart of town, Hotel Indigo stands as a beacon of charm and elegance. Situated opposite New Place, the former residence of William Shakespeare himself, and just a stone’s throw away from the renowned Royal Shakespeare Theatres, this hotel offers not just accommodation, but a fantastic experience in the rich history of Stratford-upon-Avon. Right in the heart of the town, you’ll find a buzzing array of attractions to be explored, fantastic restaurants offering top cuisine, and picturesque sights to be admired.
Previously known as the Falcon Hotel, this architectural gem has been an integral part of the Stratford-upon-Avon landscape for centuries. Following meticulous restoration, the hotel now exudes a timeless allure, welcoming guests with a grand entranceway, expansive halls, a cosy bar, gym, and a lounge perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Stepping into the lobby, one cannot miss the enticing aromas wafting from The Woodsman restaurant, nestled within the same building, renowned for its British cuisine crafted from sustainable produce, earning its spot in the Michelin Guide.
Arriving via train, we found the hotel conveniently situated within walking distance from the station, making it an ideal choice for those keen on making the most of their time in Stratford. There is limited car parking on-site for hotel guests and is charged at £12.50 per car per night. Spaces are available on a first come first served basis and cannot be pre-booked. Check-in was a breeze at the welcoming reception area, featuring a cosy lounge overlooking the picturesque garden terrace, promising delightful moments, especially during the summer months.
Our standard double room, reachable by elevator or stairs, welcomed us with modern decor touched with a hint of tradition, giving off holiday vibes reminiscent of St. Ives. Sparkling clean and invitingly cosy, the room had all the necessary amenities: a Nespresso machine, a mini-fridge, and a 40-inch flat-screen TV, ensuring a comfortable stay. The bathroom, perfectly sized and stocked with fluffy towels and toiletries, added to the overall feeling of luxury. I had a lovely dip in the tub later on in the evening and it was lovely and relaxing. There was also a great view from our bedroom of the Woodsman garden terrace that was lovely to look out at. We popped out for a little walk and returned to a lovely welcome message and a bottle of prosecco which I thought was a really lovely touch. We then unpacked, had showers then we got ready for lunch at the Woodsman.
THE WOODSMAN
We headed down to lunch at The Woodsman restaurant that is in the same building as Hotel Indigo. The Woodsman restaurant and bar is the brainchild of celebrated restaurateur Mike Robinson. Offering a mouth-watering menu featuring delicious British and sustainable dishes, Executive Chef Greg Newman passion for locally-sourced ingredients shines through. With a commitment to sustainability and seasonality.
At the heart of the restaurant is a bustling wood-fired oven and charcoal grill, where guests can watch skilled chefs whip up dishes showcasing British deer, wild boar, beef, and Hebridean lamb – all sourced from farms known for their ethical practices. We booked in for their delightful three-course menu, and enjoyed everything from poached chalk stream trout to 36-hour braised short rib of Westcountry beef, and my god, their gorgeous signature dirty mash…out of this world! It was a truly spectacular dining experience that I can’t help but recommend to anyone looking for exceptional food in Stratford-upon-Avon and when you come to stay at Hotel Indigo make sure to book in!
Once we finished our meal, we enjoyed a trip to the Butterfly farm and a wonder round the shops, followed by an evening spent at the nearby Everyman cinema. I really love Stratford, its filled with plenty of attractions and wonderful Independents for many to explore. Whether it’s indulging in a divine hot chocolate from Honey Blue, enjoying exquisite cocktails at Cafe Cocktail, or relishing in fine dining perfection at Salt, the options are endless. And don’t even get me started on the things to do here – boat rides on the Avon, Shakespeare plays at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, or a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Spoilt for choice, it’s definitely one of the best spots for a quick Midlands getaway.
The following morning refreshed and rejuvenated, we indulged in a delightful breakfast spread served in the inviting dining room from 7am. A buffet-style breakfast was served from freshly baked pastries, vibrant fruits and cereals. The buffet-style setup allowed for leisurely exploration. What truly impressed us was the hot food menu, offering an elevated dining experience beyond the typical hotel breakfast fare. From perfectly poached eggs in eggs benedict to the hearty goodness of a full English breakfast, we really enjoyed it. The attentive staff ensured that our tea and coffee was topped up throughout and the breakfast experience surpassed our expectations, leaving us thoroughly satisfied and eager to return for more.
Our stay at Hotel Indigo was nothing short of exceptional. With its prime location, meticulous attention to detail, and unparalleled standard of service, it offers a quintessential Stratford-upon-Avon experience. Priced from £100 per night, the rooms are a testament to excellent value, ensuring a memorable stay characterised by luxury and comfort. Whether exploring the town’s historic sites or indulging in culinary delights at The Woodsman, Hotel Indigo offers a haven of sophistication and hospitality, making it a top choice for everyone!
BAB ABOUT TOWN 