Carnarvon House

This place is more than just a hotel, it really feels like an experience. As a city boy from KL, I’ve only ever read about Nyonya culture in textbooks, so staying here gave me a real taste of it. The building is about 180 years old and really well preserved. You get that old-time vibe but at the same time it’s comfy and practical. The decor everywhere is beautiful, and the location is super convenient—just a short 5–15 min walk to most of the attractions. The hosts, Nicole and Kelvin, were amazing. Super friendly and always ready to help, they even gave us tips on places the locals actually go. There are a couple of things to be aware of, the bathrooms are shared, but there are six of them and even with the place fully booked, we never had to wait. Rooms facing the road can get noisy, and you’ll definitely hear the nearby mosque in the morning. But honestly, it felt like part of the local experience, and they even provide earplugs if you need them. All in all, it was a unique and memorable stay. If you’re into culture, history, or just want something different from a standard hotel, I’d definitely recommend this place.

Such a charming and cozy place to stay! Carnarvon House has the perfect blend of heritage charm and modern comfort. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and tastefully decorated. The location is super convenient — walking distance to many local attractions and food spots. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making us feel right at home. Definitely a hidden gem in Penang! 🏡💛

Spend 2 nights here and we really enjoyed this place. Upon arrival we were greeted very kindly. The house is beautiful and the room as well. There is a fridge you can use and free water. I really liked the friendliness of the people here. We also did our laundry and it was perfectly clean and done. Thank you so much :)

Clean, comfortable and lovely! Perfect location, everything is walkable distance. Our host Nicole is very helpful & friendly. Note: toilet & bathrooms are all sharing. It’s very clean so no worries.

Vintage styled homestay. I stayed in Campbell room. It's a pretty small room with no windows. The stay is OK overall. The room is clean. Aircond is kinda noisy and I am a light sleeper. Luckily they provide complimentary ear plugs. The shared bathrooms are spacious and clean. Only drawback is the water pressure. The location is superb. It's located at the heart of Penang island. You can access to many tourist spots in walking distance. Parking: easily can get one. Roadside parking only. Miscellaneous: Toothbrush and toothpaste provided Towels provided Shampoo gel provided Water fountain with cups Complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits The room rate is affordable. Recommended.

Stayed at this shophouse with friends fora few days. Due to its design, you'll be able to hear the ground creaking when people walk pass on the second floor which may affect Those who are light sleepers. The location however was close to First Avenue shopping center and other food stalls and attractions

This is my 3rd time returning stay. Love the space, deco and the top niche cleanniness of this guest house. Friendly owner and helpful staff. Location near most of the famous tourist spots another plus point!

Staying here for the fourth time. Highly recommended. Beautiful and authentic representation of a Penang heritage family home. July 2025 If you’re staying here for the historical novelty, please check first if you can access the old house. On my first stay, I had no access to the beautiful original guesthouse because it’d been bought out by a family for the 2 nights I was staying here. Had I known, I would have arranged alternative dates. Managed to steal a few hours in the old house when the other guests were out. Enjoyed it very much although I felt a bit like an intruding burglar. Instead of a paying guest who had been promised a unique experience. Everything else was well appointed. Nicole and her team were very welcoming and accommodating. And the location is perfect.