The Townhouse

Located across the street from a row of traditional Tudor buildings, the tiny Church Street Townhouse stands out with an off-white battlemented facade and ogee windows. The property looks classic from the outside, but past the main door the vibe is decidedly different. Mauve carpeting, black-and-white flower-printed wallpaper, red velvet accents, and beige leather-style walls are modern takes on traditional English inn decor, lending the property an unexpected quirky yet stylish feel. The lobby is small and homey, with wooden floors and a small wooden bench with mauve pillows. Large golden letters spelling out the word "reception," a beige leather-style accent wall, and a striking bright-red couch are chic details that highlight the hotel’s bold style. Located off the lobby, the restaurant and bar are popular hangout spots for locals, with a lively and friendly atmosphere. Teal and Prussian-blue walls covered in dozens of small ornaments blend easily with the weathered wooden furniture and the fuchsia and red accents around the bar. Heavy red drapes separating the different rooms give the space an intimate vibe.

The hotel is located on a wide one-way street right across from William Shakespeare’s school and the historic Guild Chapel. This central location allows for easy walking access to the town’s major attractions, including the Royal Shakespeare and Swan theaters, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and the Holy Trinity Church, all within a five-minute walk of the hotel. There are also dozens of restaurants and bars nearby, and the area is busy with visitors and locals alike. The picturesque River Avon is a quick stroll away, and family-friendly Tudor World is about five minutes from the hotel on foot. The main train station in town is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel. The nearest airport is located in Birmingham and can be reached by car in 45 minutes. 

The hotel has 12 stylish rooms, all featuring king-size beds and large windows overlooking either the street or the back of the hotel. Light sleepers may want to request a room on the top floor, as units directly above the bar and the restaurant may get some noise. 

Dark-brown tufted headboards stand out against the dove-gray and beige carpeting, while heavy red drapes and black chairs and closets add some color. Period-style nightstands and desks have been painted in metallic hues, giving a modern, chic twist to the classic furniture. Standard amenities include wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iPod docks, mini-fridges and electric kettles. All rooms feature a few extras, such as hair straightening irons, small bottles of milk for tea, decanters with port, and shortbread. 

Frosted-glass doors open onto striking bathrooms with raspberry walls, black-and-white checkered floors, heated towel racks, and rainfall showers. Three of the 12 rooms also have clawfoot tubs.  Most rooms are spacious and light, but some pieces of furniture and a few showers are showing some wear and tear.

The small, warm restaurant serves an all-day menu with a wide range of gluten-free options, including a selection of beers. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, pre- and post-theater dinner, and bar snacks are all available here. The bar is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike, and has a lively atmosphere throughout the week. Piano students from the school across the street perform six days a week in the bar, and a Champagne happy hour is held every Friday. The hotel offers a few welcome freebies, including Wi-Fi throughout and loaner DVDs for guests to watch in their rooms. Discounted rates for guests are available at a public parking lot a short walk away.