The Mercure Shakespeare Hotel occupies a long-established building on Chapel Street, one minute from the Town Hall and a few minutes from the river. It has 78 rooms, a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, a bar with a lobby fireplace and a terrace. Staff are friendly, and a 24-hour front desk and room service make it easy to arrive late after a performance. Guests consistently praise the central location, which earns the highest scores in its reviews, while the building's age shows in the facilities and some compact rooms. It is a good mid-range choice for visitors who want charm and convenience at a sensible price.
Location and getting around
The hotel is about a four-minute walk from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, seven minutes from Shakespeare's Birthplace and eleven minutes from the railway station. Restaurants and pubs are within a couple of minutes. If you drive, there is limited on-site parking for a nightly charge, so reserve a space early or use a public car park.
Rooms and what to ask for
Classic rooms are the standard, with twin or double beds, and the compact ones at around 100 square feet are best for solo travellers or short stays. A privilege room offers more space, so it is worth asking about upgrades. Rooms have free wifi, a safe, a television and a tea and coffee maker. Reviews say the hotel feels dated and in need of refurbishment, and some rooms are small, so manage expectations on size. English breakfast is available for an extra charge.
Who it suits and what to know: couples, solo travellers and theatre-goers who value location over luxury will find good value here. There is an elevator, which helps with luggage. Pets are accepted for a small nightly fee, and free cancellation is offered on selected rates. For a quieter stay, ask for a room away from the street. It is the best mid-range base for walking to the Birthplace, New Place Gardens and the river without using a car.
Why stay here
- ✓Four minutes from the RSC
- ✓Restaurant
- ✓Bar and lobby fireplace
- ✓Terrace
- ✓24-hour front desk
- ✓24-hour room service
- ✓Lift
- ✓Free wifi
Good questions
How close is the Mercure to the main sights?+
It is about four minutes on foot to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and seven to Shakespeare's Birthplace. The Town Hall is about a minute away.
Does the hotel have parking?+
Limited on-site parking is available for a nightly charge. Ask the hotel to reserve a space, or use a public car park nearby.
Are the rooms large?+
Classic rooms are compact, and the smallest are best for one or two people on a short stay. Ask about a privilege room if you want more space.
