The Francis Malbone House – Newport, RI
The Francis Malbone House / 392 Thames Street / Newport, RI 02840 / 1-800-846-0392
My partner & I recently had the distinct pleasure of staying at Newport, Rhode Island’s most luxurious B&B, The Francis Malbone House.
The Francis Malbone House is a colonial mansion built circa 1760. Located on Newport’s harborfront, the inn is reminiscent of an itimate European hotel.
There are many things to love about this property. It’s waterfront location on thriving Thames Street. The fact that it is Newport’s only Five Star Diamond award-winning B&B. The smell of fresh baked goods that greet you upon arrival.
The fact that the property offers free, convenient parking and a delicious breakfast that not only offers a buffet of standard fare but also cooked to order food. Then there are the gorgeous rooms, common areas and, of course, the history of the place.
One of my personal highlights was meeting the owner, Will as well as Innkeeper Elizabeth and breakfast server, Sue.
Will is one of those people that light up a room and makes you feel instantly welcome and comfortable. He has a genuine, warm smile and laugh that makes you want to jump up and give him a hug as if he is a long lost friend. I am not exaggerating here. He is THAT likeable.
Equally likeable were Elizabeth, the innkeeper, who greeted Jennifer and I upon our arrival and gave us a very informative tour of the property and Sue, the breakfast server who was extremely pleasant and made our hungry stomachs happy with her Belgian waffles made with almonds and Melba sauce.
Service is an important part of what makes a property successful. It is clear to see why The Francis Melbone House is a Five Star Award Winning property!
We were placed in courtyard room # 5, which is in the newer part of the property, part of an expansion that was completed in 1996.
The room was absolutely delightful. The room, painted in soft yellow, featured a queen size bed that was beyond comfortable and provided a (much needed) full nights sleep.
There is also a gas fireplace and French doors that open out to the beautiful main courtyard.
The private bathroom offers a double jacuzzi with a shower.
The room also has a flat screen TV, DVD, Ipod docking station, A/C and Wi-Fi.
Common Areas:
Queen Anne Style furnishings are featured in each room along with beautiful oriental rugs and custom window coverings, rare paintings and antique prints. You will find other conveniences such as local area restaurants and attractions brochures as well. There is an honor system mini bar with drinks and complimentary afternoon tea and freshly baked homemade snacks (yum!)
SPECIALS/PACKAGES:
Francis Malbone House is one of the best values in Newport. At time of writing, they are offering an incredible midweek rates of $119 per night for their gardenside or harborside rooms; $159 per night for their Newport & Courtyard rooms and $199 per night for their suites. These rates include gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea and parking.
You can find a list of all their packages HERE.
Gay & Lesbian Factor: Owner, Will, was more than eager to be reviewed for Gay Travel Information’s blog and talked openly with Jen and I about his partner. I found the staff to be very gracious and was pleased by the nice mix of guests I came in contact with during breakfast. This would be the perfect place for a romantic getaway or homebase for a stay in Newport. It’s is absolutely, 100% gay & lesbian friendly and worthy of our business.
From the second I arrived I love, love, loved the Francis Malbone House! The smells, the ambiance, the friendliness, the history, the gorgeous rooms and, as if it couldn’t be any more perfect, there was a light snow falling outside witch just added to the magical ambiance.
I can’t wait to return.
Desiree Sousa
Gay Travel Information | Gay Travel Blog, Gay Travel Reviews, Gay Travel Blogger 
This is one of very pleasant places to stay. Having an opportunity to be there and spending time during the winter will be a good opportunity. In addition, the layout in the inn is very nice and beautiful. The meal served was very tasty and seems very delicious. I must go to this place.