The hype
Travelers adore the main building's opulence and the staff's warmth, but many feel the annex rooms are a letdown in comparison.
The Roseate Reading
$140-350/ night
Book this if You want a 'Bridgerton'-style romantic escape in a red-brick townhouse without paying London prices.
Why People Love It
- The 'Sexiest Townhouse Hotel' vibe in the main building (huge chandeliers, wood paneling)
- The Reading Room restaurant's top-tier cocktails and modern European menu
- Private 30-seat cinema for guest screenings
Quick Take: A tale of two hotels: the main building is a sultry period drama, while the 'House' annex feels like a glorified office block.
Reviewed by @theboutiqueadventurer: I stayed in this gorgeous suite and the fireplace was a total game-changer for a cozy night in. The bathroom felt massive and so modern compared to the historic exterior. It’s the perfect spot if you want to feel a bit spoiled in Reading.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Breakfast gets mixed reviews—some love the a la carte options, others find the buffet sparse for the price.
- You appreciate 1911 Edwardian architecture and velvet upholstery
- You need a swanky spot for cocktails and dinner without leaving the hotel
- You are visiting Reading for leisure and want to be near the Abbey Ruins
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Generally excellent daily service, though some reports of missed dust in high corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: High standard, but isolated reports of leaks or mold in older bathrooms.
- Maintenance: Main building is historic so expect some creaky floors; 'House' annex is newer but can feel sterile.
- Linens & towels: Egyptian cotton sheets, generally rated as high quality and fresh.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of signature fragrance (Penhaligon's), no lingering bad odors usually.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Train station screeching/horns
- Corridor noise/thin walls
- HVAC hum in annex rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- Parking is £20 per night and cannot be reserved
- A £50 per night pre-authorization deposit is required at check-in
- The spa is small and treatments should be booked well in advance
What to pack
- Earplugs (just in case of train noise)
- Smart casual outfits for The Reading Room bar
- Walking shoes for the nearby Thames Path
Room Genie
Best picks
- Roseate Suite (formerly the Council Chamber) for high ceilings and maximum drama
- Roseate Executive Suites in the Main House for period features and space
Rooms to avoid
- Standard 'House' rooms if you want character (they feel corporate)
- Rooms facing the train tracks if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in the original Main House building, specifically avoiding the 'House' annex. A quiet room away from the train station side is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there parking?
Yes, but it's limited, first-come first-served, and costs £20 per night. Overflow parking is at Queen's Road.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome for £20 per night. They provide beds and bowls.
Does the hotel have a pool?
No pool, but there is a small spa with a sauna and steam room.
How far is the train station?
A very short 5-minute walk; you can practically see it from the hotel.
What is the difference between 'Roseate' and 'House' rooms?
'Roseate' rooms are in the historic main building with period decor; 'House' rooms are in the modern annex and are more minimalist.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not. It costs ~£15 for the buffet or ~£20 for the full a la carte experience.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Roseate Suite' was the original Council Chamber and has a massive fireplace.
- ✨
Ask to see the 'Upstage Mini Cinema'—it's often empty and a cool spot to peek at.
- ✨
The 'Secret Garden' is a hidden outdoor spot with a waterfall, perfect for a quiet coffee.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 86,000-bead Italian chandelier in the lobby hangs in the original lift shaft.
💡The 'Maiwand Lion' statue in the park next door has a famous anatomical mystery (check the legs).
💡Some 'House' rooms have a view of a generic apartment block—zero romance there.
💡The hotel was formerly the Berkshire County Council Shire Hall.
💡You might hear the 'screech' of trains braking if your window is open.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Roseate Reading is located and what's nearby.