The Roseate Reading Hotel Review: A Boutique Luxury Stay in Reading’s Only Five Star Hotel

Blue skies, 33 degrees and a trip to Paris the following day. The perfect setting and mindset for a hotel stay if I do say so myself. I last visited Reading almost nine years ago now and while I can’t quite remember the reason, I’ve always had fond memories of my lunch in Cerise at The Roseate Reading. With that in mind, it was only time that I finally experienced the full package of what this property and its town has to offer.

When it comes to those little luxuries and a wealth of fine dining choices, Reading doesn’t quite have so much to offer in that aspect – but that’s where The Roseate comes in. Slap bang in the centre of town, this 5 star hotel feels like a home from home and from the moment you step through the doors – something about the whole operation just feels so warm and cosy. The red carpet up to the front door, complimentary chocolates to nibble on in reception as you check-in and a perfumed scent in the air which really relaxes you.

As you enter the hotel, the first thing you’ll discover is a lovely lounge which is perfect for passing time over a newspaper and a coffee. In fact it got me thinking that the odd drink or cocktail menu here wouldn’t have gone a miss and if it was present (which I didn’t notice), I’d have loved to sit here and watch all the new hotel guests arrive whilst sipping on a Negroni or two.

On top of the lovely lobby, there are so many other areas to this property to explore. The gorgeous Eden room was my favourite and the perfect place for private functions or meetings. What’s not to love about its floor-to-ceiling Georgian windows and hand painted flowers across the wall! The glamorous looking cellar and library rooms were more lovely spaces and if that wasn’t enough, the hotel even has its own private cinema with a calendar of events which combines blockbuster movies with a glass of Champagne and three-course meal.

To no surprise, the most excitement part of this hotel was our room. I really didn’t know what we would be walking into decor or size wise, but I was so surprised and for the good because this superior rooms packs alot of punch and alot of size. The gorgeous mustard yellow wallpaper, plump bed draped with faux fur and modern colourful artworks. The best thing about our room? The incredible mini bar! It truly was spectacular and something you have to see (and enjoy) for yourself. Pop the TV on, open the Champagne and simply do nothing. It’s a great room do all of that in.

I absolutely loved the bathroom and it was a great surprise. A gargantuan sized bath, big enough for two. A huge shower to the other side and some luxurious Molton Brown spa products. I loved the full-sized versions of he bottles meaning you didn’t have to worry about saving the last drop from the usual tiny travel versions.

With the sun still shining we got out and explored some of the sites Reading had to offer. We had a lovely walk along the canal banks, stopping for a pub lunch. Took a leisurely walk around the ruins of Reading Abbey which were founded in 1121 and spent a couple of hours doing nothing but people watching in The Forbury Gardens which are just a stones throw from the hotel.

One of my favourite spots (amongst many) of the hotel was its restaurant, Cerise. Full of glitzy interiors, sumptuous surroundings and a delicious fine-dining menu which has put Reading on the map when it comes to food. The desserts in particular were very exciting. Read my full review of this hotel restaurant.

If you don’t have time for dinner or lunch then head to the garden terrace which on a warm day or as the sun starts to set is the perfect place for a cheeky cocktail or glass of wine. All of the cocktails were tried here were excellent, especially the delicious negroni’s.

Spending a little too much time out the following evening in Reading and enjoying the nightlife it has to offer. We indulged in one of the DVD’s in our room the next morning and ordered room service in the form a rather delicious breakfast in bed. Our DVD of choice was Breakfast at Tiffany’s which was rather fitting too. I’ve had so many hotel breakfasts this year and when in the UK, a full English is always a must and this was up their with the best. The bacon and sausages were of excellent quality, the scrambled eggs nice & creamy and the coffee had a good kick.

We had a really lovely time at The Roseate and if in Reading again we wouldn’t hesitate to book a return stay. Whilst we visited in the Summer, something tells me this hotel really comes into its own during the Winter months because it’s so cosy and has a somewhat festive feel about it all. The rooms, the food and the surprising history which Reading has to offer means there are many reasons to return and we’ll most certainly be back again one day.