We loved our stay at the Marblehead Summer House! We chose it based on a friends recommendation and…read morewe are glad we did. The location is at the heart of the historic district and easily walkable. The owner and staff are warm, welcoming, and accommodating. This feels more like a bed and breakfast with charming rooms and homestyle touches but fast Wi-Fi, easy access, and large TV. We enjoyed it so much, we've already booked our stay for next year.

Stumbled upon the Marblehead Summer House while my friends and I were scrambling to find last…read moreminute accommodations for our "Halloween in Salem" weekend. Although everything in Salem was booked we discovered the town of Marblehead and within it an old house available for the weekend. The location is truly amazing, the roads are small and windy and every home dates back to the 1700-1800's. Our room in the house came equipped with 3 beds, a full kitchen, and a bathroom with a stand alone tub. John, the manager/owner was amazing - so pleasant and helpful and extremely knowledgeable about the house as well as the town's history. The home is walking distance to the water and great restaurants. I highly recommend!

My bf and I stayed here in March. I found the website online and was convinced it would be…read morewonderful because of the gorgeous pictures of the place and the stellar reviews I found all over the internet. When we got there, we found the owner and his girlfriend cooking dinner. They were very nice and welcoming. I knew to expect the owners living quarters to be really close to the guest rooms because of some of the reviews I read but since the room we were in had a private entrance we weren't worried, we figured we could come and go and have the privacy we were looking for with no problem. We told Ted that we were late sleepers and not to worry about providing breakfast for us (the website says breakfast is served between 8:30-9:30). We would much rather sleep in and then grab brunch somewhere and we didn't want to hold him up from whatever he may have had planned for the day. He seemed somewhat resistant to the idea of not providing sustenance for us so after a little discussion, J and I told him "okay, how about 10:30?" He said he would leave certain items out for us. The house and our room really were gorgeous! Ted is an architect and he has done a really great job on the house and grounds. We stayed in the pond room which had cathedral ceilings, a two person jacuzzi, a gas fireplace, double glass doors, lighted double sinks that automatically turned on when you walked into the room, a whole wall of windows, decks, and heated floors. We were really happy with the room. It was very clean and decorated with a subtle nautical theme. From the moment we got there, we kind of felt like we had to whisper in our room. Probably because there wasn't any other guests there that weekend and the owner was having dinner 20 ft from our door. I know they probably couldn't have heard us but it did make me feel more uncomfortable than I thought it would. In the morning, we were woken up bright and early by the sun coming through the large, high windows in our room. No wonder breakfast is so early, how can anyone sleep through that? However, I do have to say that if I wasn't a cranky morning person, this would be a really enjoyable way to wake up, sun and beautiful blue sky and trees to look at while lying in bed. We pulled ourselves together and quietly went to the kitchen for breakfast. Ted said he would leave things out for us so we assumed we'd be alone. He immediately came around the corner when we got to the kitchen so it felt like he may have been waiting for us. He served us cantaloupe slices with yogurt, granola and berries and a tomato and basil quiche, which was all very good. What wasn't good was that he talked to us from the kitchen the whole time we were eating, so we had to keep turning around in our chairs to respond to him. It was uncomfortable and awkward (if he had sat down with us, it wouldn't have been as bad). During our weird breakfast conversation, it comes up that J is a software engineer and next thing you know, Ted is asking for help with a website he is working on. I have no problem with J helping someone out, but DUDE we're on vacation and we are paying you good money, don't ask for business help while we are trying to relax. It just wasn't appropriate. I said "Maybe when we are on our way out on Sunday he can help you for a bit". After that, we pretty much chose to use our private entrance to the room when we came and went from the house. We didn't feel like discussing in great detail every time we came back from somewhere, what we had done and where we had gone. I think Ted meant well, he had a lot of advice and suggestions for things to do and he was a really nice guy but it just didn't mesh with our style. For the most part, we like to be left alone when we go away and Ted didn't seem to pick up on the signals we gave him. I think this B&B would be really great for an older couple, for some reason I feel like older people are more open to this type of attention. On Sunday when we packed up, J was heading out to take some things to the car and Ted followed him outside for help on his website. He spent more than an hour working on something with him, while I sat in our room waiting. We probably won't go back. Gorgeous place, beautiful backyard and pond, and nice trails that lead to a running path and the harbor. I really liked the physical surroundings but didn't really feel relaxed because Ted was overly available and obviously in closer earshot than we would have liked. A week later, Ted called and asked BF to go on trip advisor and write a positive review of our stay!! No wonder I found so many good reviews online. 5 stars for aesthetics and 1 star for invasiveness! It wasn't horrible but it was not our style. **Updating this review in March '09: Ted called J a month or so ago and said he found this review and apologized and offered us a free night at the B&B. Not sure if we'll take him up on it but nice that he tried to make amends.**

Two weekends ago my friend and I spent a lovely weekend in Marblehead at the Fox Pond Bed and…read moreBreakfast. This gem is nestled in a quiet neighborhood bordering a 37 acre sanctuary with trails that lead down to Salem Harbor. I looked at a number of B & Bs before finding this obvious and rare jewel of a home. Ted and Sophie, our hosts, were flexible as we arrived early and left a bit late since the off season is easier on everyone. This home has been meticulously redone, as have the beautiful grounds. Indeed, this property is featured in a number of architectural, gardening, and home magazines. The obvious care and attention to detail is very very unique. Our host, Ted, and his lovely dog, Sophie, made us feel right at home. Ted has an easy way about him that makes one feel like family the second you walk through the door. As is common with Bed and Breakfasts, you are a part of the family while in residence - that's the charm. The breakfasts were lovely and we invited Ted to join us as we learned about the house, its history, and received numerous tips about local attractions, restaurants, shops, and some of the local North Shore news. All in all our stay was wonderful. Ted opened his home to us and helped make our stay a memorable and relaxing time. I most enthusiastically recommend the Fox Pond B&B; we'll be back!

The name says it all. Take it literally. I can deal with the fact that this place is old and…read moredecorated like the film set of a bad 60's horror movie but nothing in this place has ever been changed, renovated or upgraded. It's amazing they have AC. We had to move to 2 different rooms during our 3 night stay due to them reserving our first room for someone else. No biggie. I now have the perspective as if I'd stayed twice. The bed- clearly bought from a discount mattress store for ~ $79 20 years ago. Hard but saggy, my neck and back are killing me. The bathroom- hope you're not overweight because you won't fit in it. I'm not kidding (see pics). Just don't do this to yourself. The bed was the worst part. I'm so sleep deprived now.

We arrived around noon with some friends who are also staying at the OCI, and meet the innkeeper…read more He explains that one room is ready, but the other one won't be ready for another hour..."because people are still in the room...one of those by-the-hour-deals...a local doctor and his lady friend...he's a regular...they should be done soon." Luckily that wasn't MY room, but my friends were less than thrilled to know about the shagging happening in their bed. Why was it necessary to fill us in??? The place was also pretty grimey. Granted, it was cheap and in a good location, but it could definitely use some detailing. But, I don't think there was anywhere else to stay in Manchester by the Sea. Oh, the kicker was when we came down for *breakfast* (bag o' english muffins, oj, coffee) and the inkeeper says, "you bastards are finally up!" I guess they call that Massachusetts Charm. So, if you're driving up the MA coast and need to pull over for a quickie, this will do. Otherwise, check out the town of Rockport, just north of MBTS. There seem to be several cute places there.

My boyfriend and I spent a night at the Samuel Fitch House this past weekend, and it was fantastic…read more The website does not do it justice! The house itself is a 300-year-old farmhouse that has been owned by only 5 families throughout its history. Most of the original structure remains today, giving the place an authentic rustic feel -- not kitchy, like so many other bed & breakfasts. The hostess is cheerful and charming, and more than happy to give you a tour of the grounds (including a tunnel in the basement that was part of the underground railroad!). For us, she made oatmeal chocolate chip cookies fresh upon arrival. We stayed in the Carriage House, which really is a bargain for the space. The two-story suite includes a fireplace, kitchenette, television, desk, couch, armchair, and small table with two chairs. This is in addition to an outdoor porch attached to the unit, and the beautiful upstairs bedroom (with air conditioning). Breakfast was delectable, made exactly to our preferences, and served on a screened-in porch overlooking the gardens. We couldn't have asked for a better experience! I'd definitely stay here again, and would absolutely recommend this to any couple looking for a quick getaway from Boston.

My husband and I have stayed here two years in a row on our anniversary/his birthday weekend. Lynne…read moreis a fantastic innkeeper/hostess/chef! She really took the time to get in touch with us before our visit to be sure everything was going to be to our liking. She will make your visit what you wish... if you want the historic tour, you'll get it! If you want privacy and peace and quiet, she'll just be there when you need her. The house has wonderful character and charm and so much history. The fire was roaring when we arrived and the entire visit felt like a special getaway for us from work and the kids, even if it was only a few towns away. I would go just for breakfast if I could, homemade and delicious.

Archer hotel is the only hotel we will stay when visiting our family in the Boston area. It is…read moregorgeous, immaculate and in the best area all while being close enough to Boston. The staff are always very pleasant and go out of their way to make sure you have everything you need. The bar area is beautiful and the bartenders make the best drinks. Plenty of restaurants all within walking distance and several more to choose from in the mall located 2 minutes down the street. The rooms are huge with 2 king sized beds that are sooo comfortable to sleep on. I booked our room this time using the Mother's Day promo and received a bottle of champagne at check in that was presented to me in a cute gift bag. Small things like that leave lasting memories.

Where do I start? The location was perfect -- close to so many great food spots! The restaurant and…read morebar décor was beautiful, and the food was just as impressive. Every staff member we met was kind, helpful, and welcoming. Our room had so many thoughtful touches -- a Nespresso maker, complimentary slippers, and other small details that made our stay feel special. It was our first time staying at an Archer property, and I absolutely loved it. Unfortunately, there aren't any Archer hotels down south, but I can't wait for the next opportunity to stay at another one!

I was excited to stay here for a wedding this summer but the reservation was canceled, I couldnt…read moreget answers as to what was going on. I ended up having to book a place that was much more expensive. This experience ended up costing me four times as much as I originally thought and the hotel room I booked at another site was twice as much as when I originally booked with Sheas. I really liked quite a bit about this hotel but I would never book a room here again and I advise anyone looking to book a room to spend the extra money with a more professionally run place. I don't need amenities , I need my bed and a pillow as a bare minimum and they did not deliver on that.

My husband and I stayed here for our mini honeymoon. The receptionist was very friendly and our…read moreroom was very nice and big.

What a cute place this is and such a great location! Gene is such a fabulous host!! He gives…read moregreat advice on where to go. We really enjoyed our 2 nights here. We stayed in a room with a shared bathroom and as hesitant as we were, it ended up being not a big deal at all. Parking is easy as well. He gives you a parking pass, so don't worry about that. Oh, UberX goes here from Boston and it's only around $30...although that was at night with only a little traffic. Definitely give this gem a try...it's so cozy and the hospitality is terrific :-)

This is my third time staying with Gene at the Brimblecomb. Such a delightful gentleman. He's…read morealways accommodating and personable. This B&B is located in the perfect spot to walk all over Marblehead. The pricing is very fair and reasonable for the area. Everything is always clean and again, great location spot.

I cannot even begin to describe how effortlessly wonderful our stay here was. The Seagull Inn is…read moreeverything a bed and breakfast should be! Ruth and Skip, the super awesome hosts, made us feel like we were at home the second we pulled up. We stayed in the Library Suite and as you can picture, the walls were lined with endless rows of books. The quaint, vintage furniture (all hand made by Skip) throughout the house added so much character and gave the house a welcoming feel. Seagull Inn is literally a backyard away from the water where you can kayak or just hang out. My favorite place in Marblehead, Castle Rock, was only a two minute bike ride from the house. The Inn has kayaks and bikes to use during the day and always has yummy goodies out in the kitchen. I wish I could say more about our stay at Seagull Inn, but then I'd go on forever. We really cannot WAIT to make a second trip back and you can count on it that we will be visiting regularly. Lovelovelove it.

A beautiful place to stay and the owner is the nicest sweetest lady, I have ever had the pleasure…read moreto meet!!