In our review of Hotel 1843, we found a slice of history nestled in the heart of Reading. This Victorian-era gem, rumored to have ties to Charles Dickens, sits just a short stroll from the train station, making it a handy base for London day-trippers.
While the rooms offer basic comforts like TVs and tea kettles, don’t expect cutting-edge luxury. Some guests might find the decor a bit dated, and light sleepers should be aware of potential noise from the nearby pub.
That said, bookworms and history buffs will swoon over the atmospheric library-turned-bar, where you can sip cocktails surrounded by old-world charm.
Budget-conscious travelers looking for a dash of character and a prime location will find this place hits the spot.
Good To Know
- Hotel 1843 is a historic hotel located in central Reading, opposite the Oracle shopping centre, and within a 10-minute walk from Reading Railway Station.
- The hotel offers a variety of room types, including singles, doubles, family rooms, triples, and twins, all equipped with essential amenities.
- The on-site Calico Bar & Eatery provides an all-day dining experience with a global cuisine menu, cocktails, and a relaxed ambiance in a grand Victorian library setting.
- The hotel features a 24-hour front desk, cashless operations, and child-friendly policies, with check-in from 15:00 to 22:00 and check-out by 11:00.
- Hotel 1843 has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation measures, with reduced reception and service hours to minimize contact during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overview and Location
The Hotel 1843 Reading stands prominently in the heart of central Reading, directly opposite the bustling Oracle shopping centre.
Established in 1843 by the renowned author Charles Dickens, this historic hotel is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Reading Railway Station, offering a 25-minute connection to central London.
With a guest rating of 7.2 out of 10 based on 1,521 reviews, the hotel is particularly popular among couples, who’ve rated it 8.9 for its excellent location.
Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, the Hotel 1843 Reading’s central position makes it an ideal choice for exploring the vibrant town of Reading.
Accommodation Details
Guests will find a total of 29 rooms available at the Hotel 1843 Reading, offering a variety of accommodation options.
These include single rooms with showers, double rooms with private bathrooms, family rooms with baths, triple rooms with baths, and twin rooms with baths.
All rooms are equipped with essential amenities such as a television, desk, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Plus, each room has a private bathroom stocked with complimentary toiletries and provides free Wi-Fi access throughout the property.
The hotel also offers non-smoking rooms and features a bar, restaurant, and 24-hour front desk for guest convenience.
Room Types and Amenities
A variety of accommodations await visitors at Hotel 1843 Reading, catering to diverse preferences.
Single rooms feature a private shower, while double rooms provide en-suite bathrooms. Families can opt for spacious family rooms with a bathtub, and triple rooms cater to groups. Guests looking to share can choose twin rooms with a private bathroom.
All rooms come equipped with a television, desk, and tea/coffee making facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.
The hotel’s amenities also include non-smoking rooms, a bar, restaurant, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour front desk to ensure a comfortable stay.
Dining Experience
Calico Bar & Eatery, the on-site restaurant, offers all-day dining with freshly prepared breakfast and a diverse menu of global cuisines, including modern Asian dishes.
The comfortable seating and grand Victorian Library atmosphere make it an ideal spot for remote work or casual meals. Theres some good an extensive cocktail menu while taking in the charming floral circular booths.
The dining experience at Hotel 1843 Reading caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, providing a relaxed and welcoming ambiance for both hotel guests and local patrons.
Environment and Ambience
The grand Victorian library setting of Calico Bar & Eatery sets the tone for a refined and inviting ambiance. Comfortable seating in circular floral booths and a cozy, wood-paneled atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for remote work or leisurely meals. Guests can enjoy the historic charm of the space while indulging in a delectable array of global cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails.
| Environment | Seating | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Victorian library | Circular floral booths | Wood-paneled |
| Cozy | Comfortable | Refined |
Guest Services
At Hotel 1843 Reading, guests can take advantage of a range of convenient services and policies tailored to their needs.
The hotel operates a 24-hour front desk, allowing for flexible check-in and check-out times. Guests can check in between 15:00 and 22:00, with advance notice required for late arrivals. Upon departure, guests must check out by 11:00.
The hotel welcomes children, though cots and extra beds aren’t available. Plus, Hotel 1843 Reading is a cashless hotel, accepting only card payments.
The hotel provides the following guest services:
- Flexible check-in and check-out times.
- Cashless payment options.
- Child-friendly policies.
Policies and Restrictions
Along With the guest services offered, Hotel 1843 Reading has several policies and restrictions in place to ensure a comfortable and secure stay.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 22:00, and guests must check out by 11:00. The hotel welcomes children, but cots and extra beds aren’t available. Guests must be at least 18 years old to check in.
Pets aren’t permitted, and the hotel only accepts card payments – cash isn’t accepted. Nearby parking is available at the Queens Road car park, with coupons for 24-hour parking provided by the hotel.
Guests are advised to inform the hotel of their expected arrival time.
Health and Safety Measures
Hotel 1843 Reading has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation measures to ensure guest wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The hotel has reduced reception and service hours to minimize contact.
Plus, the property utilizes CCTV in common areas and outside for security purposes.
Guests are advised to inform the hotel of their expected arrival time in advance to facilitate a smooth check-in process.
- Enhanced safety and sanitation protocols
- Reduced reception and service hours
- CCTV monitoring in common areas and outside the property
Questions About Staying Here
Is There a Gym or Fitness Center On-Site?
There is no on-site gym or fitness center at this hotel. The amenities focus on comfortable accommodations, dining, and meeting facilities, without specific exercise or wellness facilities available for guests.
Do You Offer Any Special Packages or Deals?
Hotel 1843 Reading doesn’t offer any special packages or deals at the moment. However, they may have seasonal promotions or discounts available, so it’s best to check their website or contact the hotel directly for the latest offers.
Can I Arrange for Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Early check-in or late check-out at Hotel 1843 Reading can be arranged, although it’s subject to availability and may incur additional fees. Guests should inquire with the hotel in advance to ensure their preferred arrangements can be accommodated.
What Is the Nearest Airport and How Do I Get to the Hotel?
The nearest airport is London Heathrow, about 45 minutes away by taxi. Guests can also take a train from Heathrow Airport to Reading Station, a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Do You Have a Concierge Service to Help With Local Recommendations?
Yes, the hotel has a 24-hour front desk that can provide local recommendations and assistance. Guests are welcome to inquire about the concierge services available to make the most of their stay.
Worth The Stay
Hotel 1843 Reading offers a historic and charming accommodation experience in the heart of Reading, UK. Boasting a prime location, a blend of traditional elegance and modern amenities, and strong popularity among couples, this hotel caters to the needs of both business and leisure travelers. Whether exploring local sights or seeking a convenient base, Hotel 1843 Reading provides a comfortable and memorable stay in the vibrant city.