The Arden Hotel

Very enjoyable stay, will repeat.

A mixed bag ....

Upon arrival at the hotel, we checked at reception to see if we were ok to park in the car park - before check-in - as the hotel is in a great location to park and explore all that Stratford has to offer.

Upon check-in, we were shown to the room and were greeted with a wall of heat as we moved up the building towards our room. The room itself was lovely, spacious and very clean. However, I was a little wary of climbing in and out of the over-the-shower bath (which was very deep and had a very wide ledge to overcome and I have knee instability - anybody with worse mobility issues than I would struggle!!)

The milk provided in the room in the fridge, although in date was not fresh as the fridge in the room (in the wardrobe) is not able to keep the contents chilled enough - but this was replaced promptly and quickly when we asked at reception.

We were welcomed into the restaurant warmly and chose to have a drink before taking our seats - it seems as if we were forgotten as it took a waiter an age to come and take our drinks order. When seated in the restaurant it seems as if the level of service received depended on who served you - we were not offered (up-sold) any wine/sides at the table, whilst others around us were. The food was delicious and freshly cooked - and all other meals around us looked just as delicious as ours. We chose not to have dessert and returned to the bar area for another drink after dinner. Again, we were forgotten and sat there for about half an hour, before my husband went to find a Server and ordered our drinks, which were eventually delivered to our table.

Again, at breakfast we were greeted warmly and again, it depended upon who was your Waiter as to the level of service you were offered. We were not offered toast, or explained to as to the options on the Continental breakfast, or even where it was - it was only because I saw and heard others that I knew these were options. Again, the food was freshly cooked and tasty.

The bill was placed under our door overnight, and it was incorrect as our food allowance and free welcome drinks which were part of our package were not taken off. But the very nice lady at reception (I am sorry, I cannot remember her name!) dealt with this, at check out very efficiently and was very apologetic whilst doing so - we were not the only ones it seems that had this problem!

In summary, some staff were lovely - the room was comfy, and the food was fresh and tasty - but there were elements of the stay that were disappointing.

The Arden Hotel Good memories of a special occasion

A wonderful location in the town and within yards of the river. Ample car parking on site. Helpful staff who are prompt and efficient. Comfortable rooms make for a relaxing stay. Restaurant prices and menu are what one would expect in a luxurious venue such as this.