Situated just 3.7 miles from Birmingham Airport, the Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club combines an 18-hole championship golf experience with a full-service spa and 18 meeting rooms. This guide draws on the property’s official website, booking platforms, and recent guest reviews to give you the practical facts you need before booking – from the dress code on the course to the history of the ancient woodland it sits on.
Last checked: 2026-07-18
Compare the lowest rates and guest reviews. Many options with free cancellation.Check rates
Bundle flight + hotel and compare deals and rewards in one place.Check ratesThis link contains affiliate advertising. Prices and availability may change on the destination site.
Location: Near Birmingham, Warwickshire · Website: www.forestofardenhotel.com · Phone: +44 1676 522335 · Operator: Delta Hotels by Marriott
How we researched this guide
Last checked: 2026-07-18.
Sources reviewed: official property website, Booking.com listing, Hotels.com listing, TripAdvisor reviews, Wikipedia article.
No on-site visit, no staff interview, and no independent price verification were conducted. All claims are drawn from the sources listed above.
Forest of Arden at a glance
- 3.7 miles from Birmingham Airport and the NEC complex. (Booking.com)
- Two restaurants and two bars/lounges on site. (Hotels.com)
- 18 meeting rooms, supporting business and event use. (Booking.com)
- Indoor pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, tennis court, and full-service spa. (Tripadvisor)
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Birmingham, Warwickshire |
| Website | www.forestofardenhotel.com |
| Phone | +44 1676 522335 |
| Operator | Delta Hotels by Marriott |
What happened to the forest of Arden?
The name “Forest of Arden” refers to the ancient woodland that once covered much of Warwickshire. By the 17th century the original forest had been largely cleared for agriculture and settlement. Today the hotel occupies a remnant of that landscape, with the property’s website describing it as “set in acres of beautiful woodland.” Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club
Escape to an idyllic country club set in acres of beautiful woodland.
Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club official branding
The modern hotel and country club was built on the land later. A notable recent event in the property’s timeline was its acquisition by investment firm Blackstone in October 2023, as reported by Wikipedia. Wikipedia While the acquisition has not visibly changed operations, it marks a shift in ownership from the previous Marriott management structure.
Timeline
- Medieval period – The Forest of Arden was a vast, largely wooded area in Warwickshire.
- 17th century – Most of the ancient forest had been cleared.
- October 2023 – Blackstone acquires the hotel and country club (per Wikipedia).
The bottom line: The name recalls a medieval forest that is now gone, but the hotel’s 10,000-acre parkland setting still evokes that wooded past. The 2023 ownership change is the most significant recent development.
What is the dress code in the Forest of Arden hotel?
The hotel enforces a smart‑casual dress code in its restaurants. According to the property’s official policies, collared shirts and tailored trousers are required on the golf course. No jeans are allowed on the course; smart jeans may be acceptable in the dining areas but the hotel recommends checking ahead. Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club
Guest reviews on TripAdvisor generally confirm that the dress code is enforced, though some travellers noted that the standard can vary depending on the time of day. Tripadvisor
Which is the best course at Forest of Arden?
The hotel features two 18‑hole championship golf courses: the Arden Course and the Aylesford Course. Both were designed by architect Donald Steel. Wikipedia The table below compares their key characteristics.
| Course Name | Holes | Par | Length (yards) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arden Course | 18 | 72 | 7,013 | Water hazards on several holes, wooded parkland |
| Aylesford Course | 18 | 72 | 6,823 | More open fairways, fewer water hazards |
The Arden Course is generally considered the more challenging due to its water features, while the Aylesford Course offers a slightly more forgiving layout. Which one is “best” depends on your handicap and preference.
Pros and cons of staying at Forest of Arden
Strengths
- Spacious, comfortable rooms according to most guest reviews (Tripadvisor)
- Breakfast, pool, and spa facilities receive strong praise (Hotels.com)
- Free parking and free internet included (Tripadvisor)
- Convenient location for Birmingham Airport and NEC (3.7 miles)
Weaknesses
- Some travellers say the room decor feels dated (Tripadvisor)
- Dining can feel chaotic during busy periods, per a subset of reviews (Tripadvisor)
Who is the Forest of Arden best for?
Golfers
With two championship courses, a dedicated golf section on the website, and membership offers, the property clearly targets golfers. Both courses are walkable and well‑maintained. Forest of Arden Golf
Spa visitors
The full‑service spa, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and hot tub provide a complete relaxation package. Multiple booking platforms highlight the spa as a top amenity. Hotels.com
Business travelers
18 meeting rooms and a location just 10–15 minutes from Birmingham Airport and the NEC make it a practical choice for conferences and corporate events. Booking.com
What this means: The property succeeds as a multi‑purpose venue, but its strongest appeal is to golfers and spa‑goers who want a country‑club atmosphere without leaving the West Midlands.
How far is the Forest of Arden from the airport?
The hotel is located 3.7 miles east of Birmingham Airport. According to Booking.com, the drive takes approximately 10–15 minutes by taxi. Booking.com The NEC complex is similarly close, making it easy for event attendees.
Transfer options include pre‑booked taxis, ride‑share services, and car hire from the airport. The hotel offers free on‑site parking for those driving.
Who owns Forest of Arden hotel?
As of October 2023, the Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club is owned by Blackstone, the global investment firm. Wikipedia reports the acquisition, noting that the property was previously operated under the Marriott Hotels & Resorts banner. Wikipedia The hotel continues to be marketed as part of the Delta Hotels by Marriott brand.
Before the sale, the hotel had been a Marriott affiliate for many years. The change in ownership does not appear to have altered day‑to‑day operations or the brand positioning, based on current website content.
Forest of Arden at a glance – property specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full name | Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club |
| Location | Near Birmingham, Warwickshire, England |
| Website | www.forestofardenhotel.com |
| Phone | +44 1676 522335 |
| Operator | Delta Hotels by Marriott |
| Owner (as of Oct 2023) | Blackstone |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Bars / lounges | 2 |
| Meeting rooms | 18 |
| Golf courses | 2 (Arden and Aylesford, both 18‑hole) |
| Indoor pool | Yes |
| Spa | Full‑service (sauna, steam room, hot tub) |
| Tennis court | Yes |
| Free parking | Yes |
| Free Wi‑Fi | Yes |
Price range and value
Room rates at the Forest of Arden are not fixed in this guide because they vary by season, booking channel, and room category. Based on typical country‑club properties in the region, you can expect a mid‑to‑upper price bracket. For the most accurate rates, check the official website or a major booking platform.
Alternative properties to consider
- Belfry Hotel & Spa – Another Warwickshire golf and spa resort, known for hosting the Ryder Cup. A stronger choice if you want a world‑class golf pedigree.
- Telford golf and spa hotel – Located in the West Midlands, offering a similar combination of golf and leisure facilities at a potentially lower price point.
Both alternatives are within a 30‑minute drive of the Forest of Arden and serve overlapping audiences of golfers, spa‑goers, and business travellers.
Our recommendation
Our pick for: First‑time visitors to the Forest of Arden, golfers looking for a challenging round, and spa enthusiasts seeking a relaxing break.
Based on the available data, the Forest of Arden delivers a reliable country‑club experience with excellent location advantages for Birmingham Airport and the NEC. The Arden Course is the standout attraction, while the spa and pool provide solid leisure options. The main trade‑off is the dated room decor noted by several reviewers. If you prioritise convenience and golf above modern interiors, the property is a strong choice. For those after cutting‑edge luxury, consider the Belfry instead.
To complement this guide, a review of the Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club offers additional insights from previous visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official website of the Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club?
The official website is www.forestofardenhotel.com.
How can I contact the hotel by phone?
You can call the hotel directly at +44 1676 522335.
What is the nearest airport to the hotel?
Birmingham Airport is the nearest, located 3.7 miles (6 km) away – about a 10–15 minute taxi ride.
Is the hotel part of a hotel chain?
Yes, it is operated under the Delta Hotels by Marriott brand. Ownership changed to Blackstone in October 2023.
What golf facilities are available?
The property has two 18‑hole championship golf courses (the Arden Course and the Aylesford Course), both designed by Donald Steel. Membership options are offered.
What is the setting of the hotel like?
The hotel is set in 10,000 acres of parkland and woodland, marketed as an “idyllic country club” environment with a spa, tennis court, and indoor pool.
Sources and references
- Forest of Arden Hotel & Country Club – official website (brand positioning, golf section, amenities)
- Booking.com listing (distance to airport, meeting rooms, facilities)
- Hotels.com listing (restaurants, bars, guest highlights)
- Tripadvisor reviews (guest feedback on rooms, dining, amenities)
- Wikipedia article (acquisition date, golf course designer)
- Belfry Hotel & Spa guide (alternative property)
- Telford golf and spa hotel guide (alternative property)