Best 5 Historic Home Inns in New England
Favorite overnights with an aura of lived-in elegance.
By Aimee Tucker|Apr 03 2023|
Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanIn a region prized for its historic architecture, it’s no surprise that some of New England’s finest grand old homes now operate as dreamy destination inns. Spanning three centuries, these carefully restored and often luxurious retreats offer the perfect pairing of past and present. Here are some of the best historic home inns in New England:
William Jefferds House | Kennebunkport, ME
One of four properties that make up the Kennebunkport Captains Collection (all former sea captains’ homes), the sunny, 16-room 1804 William Jefferds House blends original Federal-era woodwork with modern furnishings, just steps from the shops and restaurants of bustling Dock Square. larkhotels.com
Silas W. Robbins House | Wethersfield, CT
With an exterior so charming it was the backdrop to a 2018 Hallmark Channel Christmas movie, this 1873 Second Empire Victorian B&B, complete with arched windows and a hexagon slate-shingled mansard roof, is right
at home in one of Connecticut’s most celebrated historic towns. Inside, the five guest rooms pay equal homage to the era with ornate period furnishings. silaswrobbins.com
Inn at Burklyn | East Burke, VT
Built on a hilltop with 360-degree views of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, this 1904 estate recently under- went an extensive custom renovation to restore its neoclassical origins without sacrificing luxury. Relax in one of 14 comfortable rooms and suites, enjoy in- season fare Thursday through Saturday at the inn’s on-site restaurant, or simply settle in to admire the views from the wraparound porch. theinnatburklyn.com
The Inn at Kenmore Hall | Richmond, MA
While the exterior of this intimate Berkshires B&B features the classical details of its 1792 Georgian origins, inside is a restored modern retreat influenced by the region’s long-standing connection to art, culture, and nature. The inn’s five rooms and adjacent carriage house are surrounded by 20 acres of pastoral wood- lands, making it a truly restful escape. theinnatkenmorehall.com
Balance Rock Inn | Bar Harbor, ME
Originally built as a Scottish rail- road tycoon’s “summer cottage,” this 1903 shingle-style Bar Harbor man- sion is now a AAA Four Diamond three-season destination, boasting 27 unique rooms and suites, elegant din- ing with ocean views of Frenchman Bay (yes, breakfast is included), and a short drive to Acadia National Park. balancerockinn.com
Love this article. As a former Hospital CEO, I can tell you that owning an Inn is similar with 24 hours a day responsibility. 27 years ago we rescued the Orleans Inn which was originally built in 1875 as a sea captain home. Our eight children all worked to restore the Inn to it’s former glory. Now the 12 grandchildren are entrusted to keep the Inn in the family for generations to come. We are now a Historic Hotel offering full dining and lodging. Our mission is to provide food, lodging and comfort for a lifetime of memories. Orleans Waterfront Inn welcomes you.