The Francis Malbone House

My girlfriend and I recently spent five unforgettable days at the Francis Malbone House in Newport, RI, and it’s safe to say we loved absolutely everything about our stay. From the moment we arrived, the warmth and hospitality of the staff made us feel instantly at home. Their service was impeccable: they received a package for us with no fuss, helped us navigate restaurant reservations, and even offered fantastic advice on things to do and see around Newport. We stayed in the Courtyard Suite and could not have been happier with our choice. The suite was beautifully appointed, quiet, and felt like a true getaway—a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Having breakfast in the sun-filled courtyard was a daily highlight. The selection and quality of the food were outstanding—delicious, beautifully presented, and different each morning. The afternoon tea service was another lovely touch. It felt like a little indulgence every day, with homemade treats and excellent tea in a cozy setting. One of our favorite features was the honor bar—a rarity these days and done so well at the Francis Malbone House. It was a wonderful way to unwind after a day of exploring Newport. The property itself is gorgeous, a historic gem set right in the heart of the city, close to all the best shops, restaurants, and sights, but blissfully quiet at night. Most of all, it was the welcoming and attentive staff who made this place so special. Their attention to detail and genuine helpfulness really set the tone for our whole trip. We’ve already recommended the Francis Malbone House to friends and can’t wait to return ourselves. If you’re looking for a romantic, memorable, and homey escape in Newport, this is the place to be!

Probably the best find in Newport! Adorably quaint hotel with beautiful individually decorated rooms that are exceptionally clean. The courtyard is a peaceful retreat and has all the charm of an old English garden. Every rooms attention to details and welcoming feeling makes for a relaxing getaway. The staff complete the Francis Malbone experience with their friendly relaxed hospitality who truly seem to love sharing this beautiful house with guests. Truly an oasis in the middle of the hustle in Newport. Can’t wait to come back! The Lairds 07.09.25

The hotel is staffed by delightful and attentive professionals, who went out of their way to accommodate our special needs and occasion. The historic building also has a warm atmosphere, with shared spaces to relax, both inside and outside. The courtyard is tranquil. Afternoon tea and breakfast were scrumptious. Coffee could be better, but there is place down the block. Location is central and parking is a breeze. We would return.

We stayed at the Francis Malbone House in May, 2025 to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Good friends joined us there for two nights. We have stayed at this lovely inn before and it is always exceptional. We had a garden room on the ground floor with a small courtyard. The room was quiet, clean, and had a wonderful new bathroom. Parking is difficult in Newport and they have their own small parking lot. Liz, Gretchen, and Iulia who work there could not have been more helpful. We will definitely be returning to the Francis Malbone House to celebrate our next anniversary or special event. Thanks for a great stay.

Firstly- what the inn gets right. The breakfast service and tea service is really wonderful. The staff is warm and helpful. The location is very convenient for walking around Newport and they have ample parking out back. Now why they wouldn’t get a 5 star review and possibly I would try other accommodations vs returning. (room 8)The bed was uncomfortable and needed to be replaced. There wasn’t a nightstand on my side of the bed which makes it inconvenient. The housekeeping staff also didn’t lock our bedroom door after cleaning which meant that our room was unlocked for 7 hours and accessible to whomever.

This Inn is extraordinary. The staff was phenomenal and very friendly. The rooms are lovely. Some bedrooms have bathtubs and others don’t so contact the Inn for availability . The breakfast and afternoon appetizer's were delicious. Contact the Inn in advance if you have special dietary restrictions as they are very accommodating. The location is downtown Newport and there is free parking behind the Inn which is very convenient. I fully endorse this Inn.

Our stay was fantastic. I was on a trip with my mom and we spent 3 nights. Beds are very comfortable, it's clean and quaint, the breakfast was delicious, afternoon tea was so appreciated after a day of touring but, more than anything, every single member of the staff were friendly, helpful, enthusiastic and genuine. Would definitely visit again!

Beautiful room with very comfortable bed.|The afternoon tea is delightful but don't have an early dinner. The on-site baked goods are delicious. Hope you like breakfast as they have an amazing breakfast. We have stayed many times over the years and always have a great experience.|Convient the Newport harbor and and other Newport sites.

Shocking!!! We arrived and was shown our room, which was small, but quaint. It was extremely dark and we were told lights bulbs will be replaced. Never happen. Bathroom was remodelled, but shower fixer is ready to fall off. Arriving 10:07am for breakfast they said the kitchen is closed. If anyone has stayed there, eating at the courtyard is/was a great experience. I may understand getting that type of service at a hotel that you spend $200.00. From the Francis Malbone paying $1500 for 2 nights,should never happen. I also emailed the Francis Malbone about this and no response. Also repeat customer and family members My question to you, would you spend that type of money for this lack of service?

The stay at The Francis Malbone House was perfect. I absolutely loved the breakfasts that were offered. Delicious and fresh ingredients, a great way to start your day. Rooms were well decorated and clean, and felt very luxurious considering the age of the property itself. Service was friendly and helpful every step of the way. The courtyard and fountain were a great place to sit and relax. We got takeout for dinner and brought it back and ate in the courtyard. Lovely experience from check in to check out! The location can't be beat. You can park and walk to a variety of entertainment and restaurants. If ambitious, you can even walk to The Elms mansion (a great tour is available there).

From checking in to checking out the service at this establishment was impeccable and wonderful. We were given a small tour of the entire house and all the things included. Staying at this bnb was the best. It has a perfect location right in downtown on the middle of some great restaurants and bars. The parking was easy as they have their own parking lot in the back. You will need to turn on brewers street. Breakfast was included and they also have afternoon tea out with snacks and desserts. The food was so goood, best eggs Benedict I've ever had. Everything is made to order so they are happy to accommodate requests. The room is a decent room with a big bed. Our room faced the parking lot but it's ok as it's more quiet at night. The tv is pretty small but you probably won't be spending much time watching it as there is lots to do in the neighborhood. I swear every other block had an ice cream shop. Looking forward to coming back in the future.

A perfect stay for a romantic pre-holiday get-away. The inn was thoroughly festooned. The evening manager was an absolute delight. The inn is within easy walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and the harbor. Convenient parking, but be sure to pay attention to the arrival email for directions to the lot. Both the afternoon tea and breakfast were yummy and thoughtfully prepared. We will certainly return.

The best little B&B. The staff is attentive and super helpful. Great breakfast! Delicious tea time with a different selection every day!! Book early, it's pretty busy!!

Spent a night at this B&B in celebration of my birthday and despite it being St. Patrick's Day Parade/weekend we had a great time! The hosts were wonderful and the cook went out of her way to provide a cheese biscuit sandwich at "tea time" to my husband who is vegetarian. Tea time was the most delicious gourmet selections of food. The hostess gave us a tour of the place when we arrived and the room we stayed in was a suite in the back cottage house which was an entire house (kitchen included) that was shared with rooms for us and one other suite. They left chocolate covered strawberries for "my special day" on a plate which was nice. I can't wait for breakfast!

Stayed here for two nights in August. In comparison to the exorbitant rates at the Marriott and Hyatt, this quaint bed and breakfast in the heart of downtown Newport was available for 2/3 the price. That included breakfast, of course, free parking right behind the building, delicious daily complimentary hors d'ouevres, and free wi-fi. You don't get that at the major hotel chains in this town. Upon arrival, Suzanne was working reception and gave an unprompted tour of the first floor and was kind enough to arrange my sightsailing tour. A nice touch. She's been there for 15 years as of this review so she knows her stuff. Will, the owner, was very friendly and professional. He was there for both nights during my stay, which tells me he obviously cares. He also took an interest in where I was from and what my itinerary in Newport entailed. The bed was very comfortable and the housekeeping very efficient. The only bad thing I can say is they didn't replace the water bottles on day 2/2, but at least the staff keeps ice water in the courtyard all day long. Despite my loyalty to Marriott and my thirst for rewards points, I'll be choosing this place on my next visit.

My second time staying here and I look forward to coming back! The service is top notch, staff is extremely pleasant and helpful. Everyone goes above and beyond to guarantee a wonderful stay. Rooms are quaint and very comfortable, breakfast each morning is the best I've ever had anywhere and afternoon tea is served each day with the most delicious snacks and small plates. Location is near all. Will and the staff are so accommodating they make you feel like family.

I can't even wait until we actually check out to write this review. William and the rest of the staff are so friendly and accommodating. Everyone makes you feel so welcome. The grounds are beautiful and the rooms spotless. The food is phenomenal. I cannot say enough about this B&B! We will definitely be returning!

We arrived for a late check in, and the staff was very friendly. We chose a courtyard room with the gas fireplace and a Double Jacuzzi, very relaxing and nicely done up. The breakfast the next morning was great, we got a small tour of the place and then we were off to explore the frozen Newport area. We returned for tea time, which consisted of a multitude of different teas, coffee and a plethora of little snacks. We sat in one of the public sitting rooms and they were nice enough to light the fire for us while we browsed through the box of menus of the nearby restaurants. The next morning Breakfast was once again wonderful, and the staff was very helpful with getting us stamps and mailing our postcards. Checkout was a breeze. If we return to Newport, this B&B will definitely be our first choice.

A secret spot - a true getaway - a romantic place for my wife and I to just retreat. We are local which makes this house a true blessing. It's located in a perfect place, as there are many things to do here in Newport. What we love the most is as soon as you enter the home, you've retreated into a very quiet and peaceful place.

Staff was great if you like a bed and breakfast this ones for you .Sue thanks for all your help

My daughters and I spent last weekend at the beautiful Francis Malbone House. The accommodations, the breakfasts and teas, the service were beyond our wildest expectations. Classy and comfortable in every way possible. The meals were delicious and well planned...choice of eggs Benedict, banana foster pancakes, and homemade baked goods. A surprise for us, there was an Italian wine tasting on Saturday afternoon with yummy wines and a cheese/meat platter. And, the bed and breakfast is in the center of Thames, close to everything but yet no street noise noticeable. We are going to be regulars for sure!!!

Pretty B&B with friendly, professional staff. Breakfast and afternoon tea are plentiful and tasty and can be eaten in the serene outdoor garden. The complimentary "refill your water bottle" station offers fruit- flavored water and it's so nice to always have cool fresh water available. Definitely a great place to stay in Newport.

We love the courtyard here and also they have a very nice breakfast. From the buffet and the ala carte menu. The staff very friendly, Mary Allan is very personable n very nice also William ( i think he's the innkepper) is also very nice. Everyone here is very nice. We love it here. The afternoon snack is also nice here, they have a very good variation of sweet n savory afternoon snacks. Our room is cozy and warm. I also like Sue, she's very attentive and sweet. She remember what i like and want. That sign of a very good attentive person. Everything is good and we love it here. We will be coming back here for our next trip to Newport.

It's a true gem!!!! Never ever have I seen such quality of service! The only place I've seen better is my mother's:) daily breakfast is included and it's made from good quality food. There is even tea time where they serve different types of home made, daily desserts and few salads. Super clean rooms and we even had steps to climb into bed! Awesome jacuzzi with sky view. Every detail is well thought through! Everyone are super friendly. Will definitely come back here!!

I very nice hotel inn. The rooms are nicely appointed. It's clean and very comfortable .

I should call the police on them. I have a service dog who is state, county, and federally certified and they told me we couldn't stay there because of her. BY LAW you cannot discriminate against someone because of their disability INCLUDING a service dog. If you are disabled DO NOT STAY HERE. I have never been so offended in my life. They are so lucky I do not call the cops on them. I would give them no stars if I could. You cannot discriminate against the disabled. IT'S THE LAW. You shouldn't be in business if you can't be fair to all citizens. http://blog.inncaring.com/2012/03/service-animals-and-your-b-what-you-can.html

Fantastic service and food. Beautiful rooms. Perfect location. The breakfast and afternoon tea offered options that helped with dietary concerns. Recommend you bring a bottle of champagne and sit in the courtyard. Glasses and other needs are met by the Inn.

I haven't even checked out yet but didn't want to get busy and forget to give this place a review. I have stayed in Newport countless times and at different places (usually in hotels vs B&Bs) but this is my first time staying here and now I won't want to stay anywhere else. Amazing location right on Thames where all of the action is and yet it's perfectly quiet inside. Friendly staff, great parking, beautifully appointed rooms and common areas and the afternoon tea was wonderful.

My wife and I stayed here last June and loved the place. The food was amazing and the service was fantastic. We loved the courtyard for relaxing in the nice weather. We definitely are looking forward to going back. Dave

My now husband and I booked at the Francis Malbone for our wedding weekend. We couldn't have chosen a better place. While we typically stay in modern high-rises in the city, for a Newport wedding we wanted a place that felt more like a home away from home, with rustic charm and at the center of it all near the water. There are always fresh treats in the hallway and even an honor system mini-bar for late night cravings. The Inn is very quiet with many historic rooms to relax in. As with any older building the upstairs room ac units can be a little loud, but you can always turn them off as well. The staff is the heart of this inn. They are incredibly wonderful and sweet. They even shared a breakfast with us as we talked about our recent nuptials. We shared long conversations with the owner who was personable and proud of the home. The breakfast menus rivaled that of restaurants with something unique for everyone. Highly recommend eating outside in the courtyard where you can watch birds bathing and tree flowers fall on your hair. On our wedding night we even came back to the bed covered in rose pedals and chocolate dipped strawberries which was very sweet. Being centrally located, we were able to walk to local bars at night and walk back to our rooms at anytime. We will certainly be coming back here on special anniversary's and highly recommend the Inn to our friends and family.

The best bed and breakfast my wife and I have yet to stay in. Perfect centralized location, amazing historic charm and character, amazing food, and excellent service. A bit pricey during the summer (we stayed in July) but totally worth it. Would love to come back.

Absolutely amazing! We were just here for a work offsite and it was one of the best stays I've ever had. The rooms were adorable and the service was impeccable! We were also served homemade breakfast and lunch every day for our meetings. Absolutely delicious. I can't wait to bring my family here one day. :)

We just stayed at Malbone Inn and had a wonderful time. The staff and other guests were so friendly and the food was delicious. A beautiful inn made even better by the gorgeous Christmas decorations.

A gem in Newport. The rooms are lovely, the breakfast and tea was delicious, everything is made in house. The staff friendly and attentive to any questions or advice on the area. We can't wait to come back!!!

Absolutely fantastic stay. Immaculate, fantastic service, exceptionally friendly staff, beautiful period decor. Will absolutely come again. Highly recommend. Only pain was, and this is nothing but me being picky and being "that guy", the WiFi sucked. Connection in the central commons rooms was great, but couldn't stay connected in the rooms. I know, petty.

This inn is everything that it advertises and much more. My girlfriend and I stayed here for a weekend. It is beautifully decorated. Especially at Christmas. The rooms are elegant and spacious. The beds are comfortable, and large. The breakfast and the afternoon tea are gourmet quality but hands down; it is the staff that makes this such a wonderful place. Attentive, friendly and warm. We just got home and are already planning our Summer trip to Newport and it will definitely be at the Malbone. Fantastic place to stay!

Loved our stay at the Francis Malbone! Impeccable service, immaculately clean and fabulous food. Will and his staff are so warm and welcoming. Couldn't have asked for more. Highly recommend!!

This place is first class all the way. It is the perfect getaway if you want privacy but still be located in the middle of the downtown action. The breakfast was great and so was the large afternoon buffet. We will definately be back on our next trip to Newport.

An historic inn with old world charm! One of the greatest benefits at the onset of your stay is the ease of free parking & entrance through the beautiful breezeway & courtyard. Located in the heart of Newport, you can hit all the local sites & great restaurants without the hassle of the Newport street parking issues. The hotel itself is beautiful, owners & staff courteous, warm & professional and the room was meticulously clean. BEST mattress (Serta Perfect Sleeper Paascal Plush) I've ever slept on...EVER! & I'm 51!) this is not a negative, but will note that the common areas during a 95* Newport heatwave were exceedingly warm. The room with its AC & beautiful open air courtyard were exceptionally comfortable! I won't go on & on, just know a stay booked at this B&B will surpass your expectations. FYI...they also allow early check in at 2p with a checkout of 11a!

My husband and I stayed here for a weekend getaway for our 2 year wedding anniversary. It was amazing!! The staff is fantastic, the rooms are so quaint with a fireplace in each one and there is practically always something sweet and delicious either baking or out in the lobby. Homemade macaroons, pumpkin bread pudding, strawberry shortcake French toast! Unreal. We will definitely be back it was a gem!

Hands down best stay I've ever had. Wife and I came here for our honeymoon a few years back and have been here several times since. The rooms are quaint, each one is unique, and they are in immaculate condition. The breakfast and tea included with the room are just incredible. Every day you get something new for breakfast, and typically my wife and I get one of each and share because they both are great. The tea is always wonderful with great homecooked treats. Management and staff are extremely friendly and helpful. Can't say enough about how wonderful this place is. Highly recommended.

My husband took me here for my birthday from Nov. 8 to Nov. 10. I cannot tell you how wonderful the experience was. It was my first time in Newport and the staff at the Francis Malbone House went out of their way to make it a fantastic experience. They made our dinner reservations, took care of my husband's requests for my birthday (including cake, flowers, and candy), and even gave us chocolate dipped strawberries as a way to say Happy Birthday. The breakfast was fantastic as well and the Inn itself is absolutely beautiful. We stayed in Room #2 and loved listening to the wind howl with the gas fireplace going. I cannot wait to go back and was planning a trip for our anniversary in May 2014 on our second day there! Thank you so much and we can't wait to see you again.

We arrived to the bed and breakfast a bit before check in time. The location is ideal and you can walk to local shops and restaurants. They have a parking lot exclusively for Malbone guests. We were were warmly welcomed even while getting in an hour before check-in time (2pm is check-in) and they even gave us an upgrade! She gave us a tour of the house, she showed us where they keep local restaurant dinner menus and their honor system wine bar. She also showed us their wine and beer glasses that we could use if we had brought any drinks. Each room that she showed us down stairs has a fire place and told us if we wanted to come sit, that she will make a fire for us. The bedroom was spacious, clean, the bed was firm and comfortable, and they provided warm long robes and other basic toilet trees. Tea time was incredibly delicious! It's from 3-6. They had an amazing dip paired with black corn chips, tomato basil soup, and other DELICIOUS goodies (substantial things to hold you over for dinner). 5 star tea time hands down, they have quality chefs! You have access to tea around the clock. The staff is incredibly friendly and professional. They make you feel welcomed and important. They will even offer to make dinner reservations for you. The breakfast the following morning was also pretty great (It's from 8-10am). They have oatmeal, pastries, cereals and juices. You also get to order a sit down breakfast. We had an egg sandwich with blueberry pancakes. They only have bacon, no turkey bacon :-( but that's okay. We had a 5 star experience and we definitely cannot wait to stay here again!

For turn-of-the-century charm, The Francis Malbone far surpasses any expectation. The ultimate in tranquil luxury in the heart of downtown historic Newport. Owners, Don and Will have concierge service down to a science. If you can dream it, they can bring it. Yasmina's cusine at breakfast and high tea will leave you breathless, dreaming of more later. She now has her recipes published, be sure to pick up a copy if in town. You will never find a better place to get away for a romantic weekend.

Stayed here around the New Year weekend and was very pleased with the entire experience. The room had a large King, double jacuzzi and fireplace - everything was tastefully decorated w/out being over the top. The staff, especially Sue(?) at breakfast was extremely friendly and helpful. Breakfast was amazing and the afternoon tea is something all guests should take advantage off! The location of the Inn is perfect. You're close enough to the main street but tucked away so it's quiet. I would definitely go back again!

Very charming, comfortable and hospitable place. The appointments are perfect. Nice breakfast. The people are a highlight - very accommodating with good recommendations of what to do and where to dine. We'd definitely return - and hope to do so!

Francis Malbone House welcomed us as if we were a part of this magnificent home...filled with so much character and warmth. We entered this elegant inn as quest and left as friends...Can not wait to return! xo

Wonderful experience! The service and accommodations were first class. Very nice breakfast and tea time is a must. Great location in the heart of it all.

We have stayed many times over the last 10 years. This time was the first in the Counting House Suite. It was incredible. I felt like I was staying in a mansion. It was exquisitely decorated. The linens were top quality. Everything was the best of the best, including an English garden in the courtyard. Afternoon tea is included which could have substituted for our lunch it was so plentiful. Also included is a breakfast to die for with a variety for all. Upon checking in and throughout our stay, we felt as if we staying with friends or family. The best place to stay in Newport!

Just came back from a stay in Newport at the Francis Malbone House. We had an amazing time, the rooms are very clean and cozy - be sure to book one with a fireplace and jacuzzi! The staff is very friendly and helped us with recommendations around Newport. The only "negative" point I have is for the soft beds. If you're like me and you sleep on a hard mattress you will not like the beds there. However, because I really liked everything else I would definitely stay there again. The location is perfect too.

I totally agree with the previous review. Came to Newport for one night from NYC for relaxing B&B and definitely got it. The staff is so helpful and friendly, Will the proprietor checked us into our room, gave us a wonderful tour of this amazing historic colonial house and suggested some places for dinner that night. Location is perfect because it is right in the mecca of the wharf with restaurants, bars, shopping, all right there. Super warm and welcoming. This is a wonderful B&B for adults wanting some quiet, colonial charm, and great service: they do not accept childen under 12. Afternoon tea is a MUST. The yummy cakes, cookies, quiche, caramel apples were delightful and so great after taking in the mansion tour in town. in 1996 they added on to the original house, we stayed in a king room in the addition. Gas fireplace and jacuzzi tub made the room wonderful, I didn't want to crawl out of the cushy king bed the next morning. Breakfast was incredible: fruit, juices, great coffee, two choices of hot entree. All the service was impeccable and with a smile. This place is so worth the price. I will be back.