Clarendon Square Bed and Breakfast

We made reservations for a 3 day stay to visit our son in Boston. Unfortunately, this was the weekend of winter storm Nemo that caused record-level snowfall on the Eastern seaboard, and the disruption in travel prevented us from making it to Boston as scheduled. When we called Clarendon Square to discuss our options once the weather situation became clear, we were told that their 10:00 am 48-hour cancellation policy is strictly enforced (despite the fact that we called approximately 2-3 hours after this deadline had passed, but still >48 hours from our scheduled arrival time). We corresponded with Stephen Gross, one of the owners, who told us that he was sorry but that we should have purchased travel insurance (which they offer and you must decline). We offered to forego our deposit or perhaps a night's lodging, but subsequent emails to discuss this were not answered. Our credit card was then charged for $631.68 - the entire amount for our scheduled stay that never occurred despite the fact that travel to Boston was impossible. In our opinion, the insensitivity and inflexibility demonstrated by Clarendon Square violates the Bed & Breakfast 'spirit' that makes them special because of their informality and focus on the personal circumstances of the guests. Enforcing strict and unreasonable (under the circumstances) contractual requirements reflects behavior that might be expected at a hotel or motel, but certainly not at a botique inn. This interaction with Clarendon Square was both disappointing and disheartening, and we are therefore unable to recommend Clarendon Square to anyone, and suggest that the buyer beware if you are considering staying there.

Linda and I had a delightful time at the Clarendon Square Inn. The location was perfect for people who want to do a walking tour of the city. The Inn is conveniently located only a few minutes from Copley Square and is a great central location from which to venture into the downtown area, North End, Haymarket, Fenway and the museums. Our room was very tastefully decorated, and the amenities were thoroughly prepared from the espresso machine that we could use any time of day or night to the hot tub on the roof. Steven and Bobby were both gracious and friendly hosts and we enjoyed talking with them each morning before we headed out to explore the city. We couldn't recommend their facility more enthusiastically.

Clarendon Square is, indeed, the perfect place to settle in Boston. It is a wonderful alternative to the large impersonal hotel and the cat-friendly typical B&B. It is exquisite and charming in every way, and the details of the amenities leave literally no room for improvement. Stephen and Bobby have thought of everything and execute it in the most professional yet friendly manner. Everyone is treated like family, and this is accomplished without intrusion into the privacy of guests. It is the perfect balance. Located in the South End of Boston, amid trendy new boutiques and restaurants, the Clarendon Inn takes advantage of the artsy venue and carries it off with aplomb. If you are interested in arts and interiors, you will not want to leave this lovely inn, even to explore Boston. The antiques furnishings are paired with contemporary fabrics in a way that is both comfortable and engaging. The result is a setting that is reminiscent of the past and hopeful for the future. It is the perfect balance. I could spend an afternoon relaxing in the parlor with a cup of tea and a good book. It is that special. But explore we must when in Boston, and the inn is ideally located close to the center of Boston and the North End. Breakfast is also a special experience at Clarendon Square. I was reminded of my travels to Europe with the presentation of excellent meats and cheeses in addition to the more traditional cereals, pastries, juice, tea and coffee There is also the occasional egg added to the offerings. It is an assortment completely ample and assures that you will easily make it to lunch. All of this at an affordable price that was such a special surprise. I am accustomed to wading through web site after web site to find an inn or hotel that combines excellent service, lovely and upscale amenities and a price that gives me the opportunity to return again soon. I have found it in Clarendon Square. Clarendon Square is our perfect place to settle in Boston, and we hope it will become yours.

Recently stayed for only one night and wished it could have been longer! The room was tastefully decorated and very comfortable. The bed was pure heaven! Great location!

Returning from a day of sight seeing and opening the door to the inn to hear bossa nova music playing softly and snacks on the dining room table is what the Clarendon Square Inn is all about. It's stylish, comfortable and immaculate. We've stayed twice and look forward to our next visit.

How Romantic! The room was beautifully decorated and had everything from bath salts to champagne. The roof top deck was so sweet with an incredible view of Boston. It was such a pleasant getaway to the city but yet the location was a peaceful one and just steps away from the bustling streets of Boston. We have been to many romantic 5 star inns and hotels,throughout the country, and this one fits right in that catagory. Thanks for a wonderful stay Steve, we will be back! J&D

After we finished a conference at a local hotel that was loud, poorly run, informatively unhelpful, and on and on, we took the T to this lovely B and B. As soon as we saw the quiet tree lined street we breathed a sigh of relief. The staff took care of us at every level: providing a lovely, quiet room, directions on sight seeing, how to get places, recommendations and reservations at restaurants, hot tub on the roof, wine from the wine cabinet...it was wonderful. It cost less than our hotel, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay, and we wonder why we didn't book it for the entire conference.

After staying Downtown in a bigger hotel before heading off to the White Mountains for a week, we decided a change was required to somewhere that was friendlier, and in a better location, upon returning to Boston. Whilst it was a stroke of luck finding it, we found the Clarendon Square Inn to be perfect. It's an immaculate, small, friendly hotel with superb rooms and a cleanliness and attention to detail hard to find anywhere else. The Victorian building has been beautifully remodelled and is in a great, vibrant and safe area convenient for cafes and restaurants, as well as South Bay and the big malls. We had a wonderful stay. If you get a chance to stay in the luxury suite, I can thoroughly recommend it. The garden room is lovely too. The proprietors could not have been more friendly and helpful, and the added value customer care made all the difference in what was a romantic few days for my fiancée and me. Little touches, such as a well organised local restaurant review and map with a recommendation appropriate for what we were looking for are a good example. Breakfast was always excellent, friendly and informal too. And for UK/European visitors with an evening flight home, you are made welcome beyond check-out and can really make the most of your final day in the city. Many thanks to Stephen and Bobby for a fantastic visit! Mike and Debbie, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England