White Swan Hotel

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.