The Welcombe Hotel, BW Premier Collection  

On the outskirts of Stratford-upon-Avon, just two miles from the town centre. Set on vast landscaped grounds, the hotel is a handy base for Shakespeare’s birthplace, the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Warwick Castle, Stratford Butterfly Farm and relaxing boat trips on the River Avon.

This Grade II-listed neo-Jacobean calendar house was built in 1866 and boasts seven entrances, 12 fireplaces, 52 chimneys and 365 windows. Expect sweeping staircases, log fires, a grand marble fireplace, chandeliers and period furniture that give the place serious character. Guest rooms include TV, telephone, bathroom and wireless internet.

On-site restaurant (breakfast and dinner), a bar, an indoor swimming pool and spa treatments (extra charge). Outdoor tennis court, access to a golf course (extra charge), 24-hour reception, safe and car parking (spaces subject to availability; vehicle details must be registered on arrival).

Wireless internet access throughout the property and 24-hour reception for flexible arrival times.

The hotel serves breakfast and dinner in its on-site restaurant, with a bar for pre-show drinks or an evening nightcap after exploring Stratford’s eateries and markets.