Inn by the Bandstand

A Boutique Hotel de Charme in Historic Exeter, New Hampshire. Featuring onsite restaurant, Ambrose.

4.8

A Boutique Hotel de Charme in Historic Exeter, New Hampshire. Featuring onsite restaurant, Ambrose.

4.8
yellow house
staircase
blue room
Inn by the Bandstand Exterior
Inn by the Bandstand Exterior
Inn by the Bandstand Exterior
outside porch

BOOK NOW

BOOK NOW

Adults

- +

Children

- +

The Basics

SELECT REGISTRY MEMBER SINCE 2006

Built as a Federal-style home in 1809, the Inn sits at the heart of downtown Exeter. As one of the premium lodging establishments in New England, we are located two blocks from the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy, ten minutes from the beach, and one hour from Boston and Portland. Our English-inspired hotel offers exquisite décor and modern amenities for ultimate comfort. Experience international cuisine and libations at our onsite restaurant, Ambrose.

At a Glance

  • Free WiFi
  • Smoke-Free
  • Fireplaces
  • Fireplace or Fire Pit
  • Full House Rental
  • Weddings/Events
  • Tesla Charger
  • Standard EV Charger

In the Know

  • Hike or snowshoe the many trails of Exeter
  • Picnic at Odiorne Point State Park
  • Stop into Whirlygigs Toy Shop and pick out something whimsical
  • Take a walk or jog along Swasey Parkway with peaceful river views

Stay for the Story

Delve into history as you experience this 1809 Federal-style home and Grande Dame of Exeter. Experience brass bands playing at the Bandstand or indulge in our meticulously maintained property with period antiques and fine art, and restaurant.

Sip & Savor

Here are a few things to sip & savor when you visit…

Enjoy fresh, seasonal cuisine at Ambrose Restaurant
Try Otis Restaurant for modern American fare
Vino e Vivo is a great spot for a multi-coursed meal with wine pairings

See & Do

Here are a few things to see & do when you visit…

Meander the grounds of Fuller Gardens, a public botanical garden
Visit Cape Neddick Light & Nubble Lighthouse for or excellent views, painting, photographing, scuba diving, fishing and relaxing
Visit Applecrest Farm for 40 varieties of apples, peaches, berries, sweet corn, pumpkins, and an array of summer vegetables

Guest Reviews

This was one of the most pleasant stays we've had anywhere. Historic inn that has been beautifully refurbished. Cozy, comfy, a 2min walk from the Exeter campus. Service was exceptional and their restaurant (The Ambrose) was wonderful. Although described as Tapas-Style, each dish is a sizeable portion and we were thoroughly impressed with the cocktails. Thank you!

- Hannah Ha

My husband and I enjoyed staying in the Adams Suite. The room was a bit over decorated for my taste with bits of vintage pieces spanning American Victorian to Asian. The room was immaculately cleaned each day, which we appreciated. Our biggest disappointment was that the restaurant was closed during our stay. When I booked, I specifically asked if breakfast was included. I was told no, but the in...See More

- Charlee Geisler

I really appreciated the kindness of the owners, with clear communication. The room was beautiful, and I had everything I needed. When I had a question about the fireplace and the bathtub, Jamie was quick to answer and help. I'd love to stay here again!

- abby mohaupt

We had our boutique micro wedding at Inn By the Bandstand and it couldn't have been more perfect! The setting is the epitome of old New England elegance with immaculate upkeep and beautiful attention to detail: fresh flowers adorn the inn and guestrooms (arranged onsite), and each room features breath-taking interior design with gorgeous oil paintings and antiques, as well as all the modern amenities you could ever need,...See More

- Anna Wilkinson

I've stayed at B&Bs and Inns all over the country. This is hands-down my all-time favorite! The owners/chef/staff are so genuinely caring and want nothing more than to provide comfort and luxury. The Inn itself is a masterpiece of modern luxury blended with the aesthetic of the architecture and era it was built. And they even have a Nespresso machine in the butler's pantry for guest enjoyment! We have...See More

- Betsy G

Rooms & Suites

# of Rooms: 8

Room Amenities: Air Conditioning, Bathrobes, Hair Dryer, Rollaway Available, Alarm Clocks, Antique Furnishings

For information on ADA accessibility for the facility or its rooms, please contact the property directly.

Policies

Smoking Policy: Smoke free

Family Friendly: Yes

Learn more

Food & Wine

Meals Offered: Breakfast, Dinner

Special Diets Accommodated: Yes

Restaurant on Premises: Open to the Public

Dining Amenities: Complimentary Afternoon Tea/Refreshments, Complimentary Beverages, Complimentary Early Coffee Tea, Complimentary Snacks, Room Service, Special Diets Accommodated

Guest Services

Internet Service: Wireless

Front Desk/Security: Onsite

Corporate Rates: Yes

Inn Amenities: Hot Breakfast, Concierge Services, Free Onsite Parking, Full House Rental Available, Gardens on Property, Green Environmentally Friendly, LGBTQI+ Friendly, Meeting Space Available, National Historic Registry, Restaurant On Site, Spa Service, Weddings & Events Available, Wine/Spirits Available

Weddings & Celebrations

Wedding/Reception/Event Facilities: Indoor, Outdoor

Events Supported: Private Parties, Ceremonies, Receptions, Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Luncheons, Elopements

Business Travel & Meetings

Meeting Types: Business Meetings, Retreats

Meeting Facilities: Yes

The Journal

Boats docked on the water in Portsmouth, New Hampshire at sunset.

Enjoy a Summer Getaway on the Seacoast of New Hampshire

A Charming Coastal Retreat Incredible Atlantic beaches, charming historic towns...

READ ON

Location Type: Small Town/Village