Tucked away in the heart of Reading, The Roseate Reading is a strikingly beautiful boutique hotel set within a Grade II listed building that was once the town’s Shire Hall. Known for its opulent decor, grand spiral staircase and a seamless blend of classic architecture with modern luxury, the hotel is only a short stroll from the historic Abbey ruins and the vibrant town centre.
The welcome
I arrived in Reading by train and walked the short distance from the station to the hotel where I was welcomed at reception. The check-in process was quick and efficient, and I was entering my room on the second floor within a matter of minutes.
The room
I stayed in Room 27, a House Premium Suite situated within the Roseate Building, renowned for its traditional design and also housing the reception and restaurant.
The suite exuded an air of classic refinement, complete with king-size bed, adorned with a plethora of pillows, cushions, and a sumptuous throw, all combining to give an mpression of unparalleled comfort. And the bed more than lived up to its expectations of providing me with a reassuringly restful sleep each night.
A plush sofa at the foot of the bed could have easily lured me into moments of relaxation had I not got plenty of work to do.
The suite also featured a separate, dual-purpose dressing table/workspace, and fitted wardrobes that concealed thoughtful amenities such as a safe, hairdryer, ironing board and iron, a mini fridge stocked with water and milk, a kettle, coffee maker, and more.
The bathroom
Stepping into the bathroom felt almost like entering your own private minature spa sanctuary. The space boasted a large, deep bath for indulgent soaks, complemented by a separate shower, basin and WC.
To complement the experience was the fragrant Blenheim Bouquet range toiletries from Penhaligon.
Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024
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The facilities
Culinary excellence is a hallmark of The Roseate Reading, epitomised by The Reading Room, where both breakfast and dinner are served.
My dinner began with an amuse-bouche of local cauliflower with almond and caviar, a delicate introduction to tease the palate.
For starters, the Orkney scallops, artfully combined with slowly cooked pork belly, sweetcorn, ink tapioca, Granny Smith apples, and a curry oil emulsion, showcased Executive Chef Rajesh Maharjan’s prowess in balancing diverse ingredients.
My hearty main course featured Cornish halibut, perfectly roasted and accompanied by a wonderfully sweet puréed butternut squash, as well as chickpeas, roasted pepper, toasted almonds, vegetables and a caviar sauce.
Dessert was a revelation: pistachio brûlée paired with pistachio ice cream, strawberry consommé, raspberries, and a striking pistachio coral, to put the finishing touch an impeccable meal.
During my stay, I also got to experience a themed afternoon tea that was put on for a gathering of tourist industry professionals. Celebrating the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, the hotel presented a selection of sandwiches and inspired desserts, with the aesthetic standout being the imaginative Plum Delice, artfully crafted to resemble an ink pot and quill — a nod to the literary legacy of Austen herself, who had family connections with the town in addition to attending boarding school very close to The Roseate.
For those seeking rejuvenation, the hotel’s spa facilities on the top floor offer a range of treatments designed to soothe and revitalise, where guests can indulge in bespoke therapies tailored to their needs.
The location
Strategically positioned, The Roseate Reading serves as an ideal base to explore the myriad of attractions to be found in Reading. Just around the corner lies the historic Town Hall, home to a remarkable 70-metre-long Victorian replica of the Bayeux Tapestry.
The already-mentioned connection to Jane Austen adds a literary allure, especially during this 250th anniversary year. A short stroll from the hotel leads to the grounds of the Abbey where, if you’re fortunate enough to gain access to a special tour, you can visit a classroom at the Abbey Gateway where Austen once studied — a pilgrimage for enthusiasts keen to immerse themselves in the environment that shaped her formative years.
For leisure and wellness visitors to Reading, Thames Lido, with its 1920s Edwardian frontage, is a space that’s re-born, yet steeped in history, where an open-air swimming experience is reminiscent of a bygone era.
Not only that, but Reading’s position along the Great West Way — a route that stretches from London to Bristol — makes it a convenient stop for travellers exploring some of England‘s most iconic landmarks.
Other nice touches
The Roseate Reading made a number of thoughtful gestures. For example, upon entering my room, I was greeted by a plate adorned with chocolates and macaroons, with “Welcome to The Roseate” elegantly scripted in chocolate.
In-room reading material incuded the Harrods magazine and The Sybarite.
It was also a pleasant surprise that, during dinner, the chef made a personal request to meet me, and took time out of his busy kitchen schedule to have a quick chat.
The cost
The House Premium Suite, such as the one I stayed in, typically starts from £235 per night. Considering the level of comfort and prime location, this represents exceptional value for those seeking an indulgent treat.
The best bit
While every facet of The Roseate Reading exudes excellence, the quality of the fixtures and fittings of my suite and the culinary experience at The Reading Room particularly stood out.
The final verdict
Few places manage to balance historic architecture with contemporary comfort as effortlessly as The Roseate Reading. The intricate attention to detail — from the beautifully-appointed suites to the artistry of the kitchen — creates a stay that feels deeply personal. The grandeur of the building speaks for itself, while the food would rival a number of London’s finest establishments.
Disclosure: Our stay was sponsored by The Roseate Reading.
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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