The Horse & Hound

We stayed at The Horse and Hound Inn for our wedding weekend in early September, and it easily exceeded all of our expectations. We live in PA and couldn't make it to NH before our wedding day, so we booked the inn without ever having seen it, which made me super nervous since us and all of our guests would be staying there. However, we fell in love with the inn as soon as we arrived to check in. The Horse and Hound is so cozy and rustic and just has so much charm to it. There is plenty of space inside and out, so both of our families had room to relax and enjoy themselves all weekend without feeling crowded. I wish we could have spent even longer there! We didn’t have our ceremony here (we got married on top of nearby Cannon) but we did take pictures in the backyard after and they turned out great. The full commercial kitchen and the wonderful bar were highlights as well—we made great use of both throughout the weekend. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about how unique and inviting the space was, and months later, we’re all still talking about it. The Horse and Hound truly made our wedding weekend unforgettable, and will always hold a special place in our hearts! ❤️

We photographed our first wedding at this lovely, rustic wedding venue in late September of 2021. We loved how much space there was at the Inn for both the wedding party and guests to get ready / stay overnight. This place feels like an old ski lodge with lots of warmth and old wood. With a backyard ceremony space behind the venue, this was an easy location for guests to get around. The new owners have string twinkle lights around the border of the property and have plenty of lovely backdrops for bride and groom portraits. We are looking forward to documenting many more weddings at this rustic outdoor venue in the White Mountains of New Hampshire!

If you're vacationing in the White Mountains, New Hampshire and need a place to stay then look no further. This is by the far the best Bed and Breakfasts I've been in. The ambiance is fantastic and the owner and staff provide stellar customer service. The food is also amazing, you can tell the Chef is fantastic.

Very pretty and clean interior. Backyard was good too. Room is good size and clean. Their bar and breakfast was amazing. Want to come again definitely

This was my first trip to New Hampshire and the Horse and Hound inn was just beautiful. We had a wedding party staying at the Inn and it was wonderful to be able to spend time with everybody under the same roof. The kitchen is a commercial size kitchen And there is also a bar with tables. There is so much room in the house to mingle. The backyard was lovely for the children to play. And if you choose to have your wedding ceremony there the yard is also beautiful for that. I have one suggestion though if you have small children the cars fly by the front of the inn. There is not a lot of traffic but when they come by they fly. So keep them close to you. And you be careful as well.

We stayed at the Horse and Hound the first week of July. The inside is very clean and spacious- My large family could spread out easily. The backyard is so gorgeous we had several activities going on at the same time: soccer game on the greens and a card game on the patio while two parents were grilling. The house is very close to area attractions (hiking trails, parks and lakes). In short it’s my new favorite place in the White Mountains area. We plan to go back there next year.

Lovely place! So clean!!! Very cozy and relaxing! Katie the dog greets you right away and is so sweet. We were a group of 8 and enjoyed hanging out all together in the library There’s a great tavern with a warm fireplace. I would defiantly recommend this place!

Incredibly cool old county inn with excellent restaurant! Could not be in any prettier area. The picture is of the stream that runs by the inn.

Horse & Hound is a wonderful and quaint bed and breakfast in Franconia. The white mountains are incredibly spread out and we struggled figuring out what area to stay in. This spot was perfect for everything that we wanted to do! The Inn is fairly small- probably around 9 or 10 rooms. The hotel was pretty empty during our stay so we were upgraded to a room overlooking the lawn which was great. I can't say enough about the property. It's nestled in the hills and is just so serene. There's a small stream nearby and if we didn't have so much to explore I could have spent hours laying on the hammock on the back lawn. The inside is equally impressive - it's got a very preppy feel and I felt like I was in a Polo ad. There are lots of cozy sitting areas, fireplaces and shelves filled with books and games. The actual guest room is spacious and the bed is comfy. It's an older hotel but you can tell there were updates. The AC works well and the shower has good pressure. Because of covid there is no daily room cleaning. There is also normally a bar and restaurant onsite but it's not open because of covid. But there is still a daily breakfast for guests included in the stay. Breakfast is sit down service every day from 8-9 and comes with eggs, fruit salad, an English muffin and a meat plus coffee and juice. Always delicious and filling! Staff is also friendly. We had the same server for breakfast every morning and she was very sweet. We also saw the innkeeper Doug around periodically and he was always super friendly and helpful. The rate is reasonable and the location is great. Your about a ten minute drive from Franconia notch / echo lake / cannon mt and around a half hour from mt Washington. You can find lots of food and breweries ten minutes north in Littleton or twenty minutes south in Lincoln. We will stay here again without hesitation and I truly think it would be a beautiful and enjoyable visit during all seasons.

During ski season, Horse and Hounds is always a special spot for a group dinner. It is wonderful. A real New England "Holiday Inn". Fireplaces blazing, coats hung on hooks, drinks poured in the bar room, and a fine menu. The dining room is noisy, but that's due the the fun everyone is having. It wouldn't be winter in the White Mountains without a night time drive through the Notch and an evening here. Even the full length, original urinal in the men's room is a treat. Separate hot and cold water of course in the sink. 1968 or 2018, you are never quite sure, but never need to care.

The Horse and Hound (just down rt 18 toward Franconia from Cannon Mt) was one of the best places to eat in Franconia. This year (2009-2010 ski season), the Horse and Hound is under new management and it is again one of the best apres ski and dining establishments near Cannon Mt. Don't be misinformed by the old website which is soon to be updated. The Hunt Room menu is comprehensive American Cuisine. The daily specials are a must. The portions are good. The lounge has great atmosphere, music, a well stocked bar, friendly service, free wifi (a big plus for the area) and big screen television. The area also has some of the best Alpine and Nordic skiing around. My wife and I have been there twice in as many weeks and we expect to make it a regular venue for the ski season.

This review is for the inn as well as the restaurant. We have been visiting this part of the White Mountains for many years, and have stayed at the Horse & Hound during our last several visits. I have to say, this has become almost a pilgrimage for us.. drive up from NYC, go hiking, snowshoeing, or snowboarding... head back to the inn for great cocktails and amazing dinners. What a great escape. We have now visited each season, and there are always beautiful things to see and do close by. The rooms are immaculate and beautifully restored with everything down to period light fixtures and materials. The breakfasts are always delicious with locally sourced ingredients. The garden provides the kitchen with fresh herbs and veggies. I usually have lamb or beef for the dinner which is always good. Also, there is a massive collection of outdoors and travel magazines for reading and preparedness for the next travel adventure. (I love magazines) Lastly, the innkeeper is awesome, always hospitable... especially Katie (the hound!)! She is always greeting us with a tail wag and ready for a belly rub!

Great food, nice staff and lovely atmosphere. Charming in the winter with the fireplace crackling.

Just had a family event at the Horse & Hound last weekend and I honestly cannot say enough about the wonderful service we received. From the cocktails through dinner to the birthday cake at the end, Stacey did a fantastic job taking care of us. Go and enjoy!! You will love it.

While spending time in Sugar Hill, NH - I was to the Horse & Hound was a place I could not miss. I began with the Frisée salad, complete with bacon lardoons, the most deliciously ripe heirloom tomato wedges, a warm dressing, homemade croutons all topped with a poached egg. Bliss? Yes. Also for a starter we ordered Pâte for the table which was served with its traditional accoutrements. It was also equally tasty. For my entree I selected the Chicken Divan. Hormone-free chicken breast stuffed with brocolli, roasted red pepper and Swiss cheese. It was a bit dry but delicious nonetheless. I almost never finish my entree but always secretly wish to order dessert. Lucky for me, my dining companions decided we would order three and each have an equal taste. The Pumpkin Bread Pudding (with caramel sauce and fresh whipped cream) Apple Galette: a puff pastry with sauteed apples, cranberries, nutmeg, cinnamon and butter (also with fresh w.c.) Deep Chocolate Cake: need I explain? My favorite was definitely the Pumpkin Bread Pudding but honestly all three were a delight!

My fiancé and I hopped up to NH for a quick ski weekend getaway at Loon Mountain. After sampling the "okay" dinner scene in Lincoln one night, we decided to extend our search for fine dining and found Horse & Hound through Yelp. The Inn was unassuming from the outside, but once we stepped inside, we were met with a warm and lively scene of people enjoying cocktails and their meals. The attention to detail that the owners have is much appreciated. Some of my favorite details include the following: the wrought iron horse decorations on the coat racks, the hand-made leather menus, the adorable horse and hound logo, and the penny tile in the bathroom. The renovations are extremely tasteful and accentuate the Inn's history. Our meal was spectacular, the courses came out at just the right times, and the 1/2 carafe of house wine was perfect for us to share. To top off the great night, the innkeeper gave us a gracious thank you for dining there, but it was us who should have been graciously thanking him and the rest of the staff. The next time we visit we'll not only dine again but lodge there.

If you want to unplug, this is the right outlet. My husband and I needed a getaway and the Horse and Hound Inn was the perfect fit. From the four legged doorbell Katy (very cute beagle) that greets all the guests to Doug, our innkeeper that made the right dinning recommendations for us to enjoy the weekend. The Tuckerman Tavern within the Inn has a fireplace that warms both guests and locals. We shall return.

Absolutely fantastic. Waitstaff, food, drinks, prices and atmosphere were all perfect. Definitely coming back.

Felt like we took a step back in time. Close to Cannon mountain. Relaxed comfy sitting; to have a game of chess before dinning (other games available as well). Atmosphere was beautiful with antiques galore and herb garden. Food was fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared . I got the shrimp and salmon risotto and my husband and mother-in-law got the pork schnitzel. We shared the caprese salad. We were initially worried because the menu was so limited, but what we ordered was great and good portions. Great wine selection too. Not the best vegan spot, if this is your restriction. Overall amazing time!

Laura was the nicest person I have ever meet , the foods here was ok I guess. My food took a little too long but overall great experienced

The Horse and Hound was amazing all around. We stayed there for two nights and ate there for both as well. The inn itself is cozy and beautiful and the rooms are impeccably clean and well designed. The owners are very nice and are always available. The dinners were delicious, with friendly servers and a chef that personally came out to ask how our dinner was. We will definitely be back here! Oh and they serve a pretty great breakfast too!

Beautifully preserved historic building with many inviting nooks in the house, restaurant and on the grounds. Pristine cleanliness and elegance. Warm welcome. You will not regret treating yourself to dinner and a stay at this charming b&b after a hike! It's a short (15 minute or less) drive from the Lafayette Place/Franconia Ridge trails. Dinner and breakfast were fresh and satisfying. Kudos to Doug!

Absolutely awesome dining experience! We were seated in the pub and we liked it better than the dining room....quiet. Started with the crab cakes....phenomenal. Ordered the cod special. I have never had fish that was cooked better. Moist and tender! My husband had the lobster ravioli. Truly spectacular. Service was outstanding. Prices are fair; servings enormous. Don't miss it!

Stayed here this past weekend rather hastily after the place we reserved proved to be uninhabitable. The owner could not have been more charming or gracious. This inn has been meticulously restored to its original 1949 splendor. The attention to details was abundantly clear in the spot on choices that were made in furnishings, hardware, woodwork and even the linens and shades in the bedroom. Rooms are small compared to a hotel but are more akin to a guest room and in keeping with the period of the establishment. They are fastidiously clean and perfectly appointed. We had the pleasure of dining there for dinner the night we arrived and breakfast the following morning. Dinner options are limited but varied. We ordered the schnitzel which was fabulous. Those with dietary restrictions may struggle with the menu offerings. But, could perhaps ask for suggested options. Breakfast was wondrous. Choice of made to order eggs and breakfast meat accompanied by O'Brien potatoes, a fruit cup, coffee cake, juice and tea or coffee. This in was an oasis in a desert of restaurants and inns. I would highly recommend it.

Just down the road from Cannon Mountain, this is a great place to go after a day of snowboarding. Really great atmosphere with a bar and comfortable couches in the waiting area. The hours are odd and the restaurant isn't open all season so make sure you call ahead before you show up. The food was great (we had the salmon and lamb) and the service was friendly, if perhaps a bit slow.

I have lived in the area off and on since college and I have always loved dropping in. I actually worked as a waiter during winter break in college. It was VERY fine dining 32 years ago and it is just as fine now. They treat you special, make you feel special and serve great food and drinks. The outside dining they have now is especially wonderful in the summer. Dave

We spent there a long weekend and are still living from the energy we gained in the Inn and at the hikes. This Inn is a real jewel and after having stayed there now for the second time, we are sure to come back. The rooms are bright, clean and very cozy, Towels are very soft and smell nice, the bed is extremely comfortable. WiFi works well all over the house and a lot of magazines and papers are displayed in the lounge, as well as games that you won't get bored on a rainy day. We arrived in threes and thought one has to sleep on a cot. The owners told us they'd have a spare room with just one single bed and no bathroom if we would like to sleep separate. They didn't charge us anything extra, what we thought was very kind. The food is really good, we loved the rich breakfast and would recommend this Inn without any restrictions, the owners just make it very special with their hospitality.

WOW!!! My wife and I were invited back by Doug (read old review) and we were treated to one of the most amazing dining experiences- definitely the best in Northern NH! When we arrived the Maitre'd took us on a tour of the Inn. It is amazing and the attention to detail was awesome on the renovation. The Inn would definitely be a "bucket list" place to overnight. After the tour we were seated just to the left of a cozy fire (real wood). The ambiance could not have been better for a Valentine's Dinner!!! Doug came by and visited with us which was a nice touch. We were introduced to Shannon, our waitress. She could not have provided better service. She was very warm and inviting and helped us with our choices with wine and fare. We had the scallops and mushroom soup for appetizers. Worth noting, the scallops could not have been cooked more perfectly. My wife and I remarked to Shannon how hard it is to cook scallops- she agreed and had great things to say about Dave- the Chef. I had the cod and it was also cooked perfectly. My wife had the filet medium rare and it was also perfect-trifecta. Of course we had to report to Shannon about the exceptional food and she let us in on a secret. The chef uses sous-vide. A google search later and I am a believer. The wine and dessert were delightful. There are not enough superlatives in Webster's to describe our visit. We are already planning our next dinner, this time with the kiddos.

My husband surprised me with an overnight stay at the Horse & Hound Inn after two days of hiking nearby. I fell in love with it immediately. Doug, the manager/part owner (I believe), was so down-to-earth and welcoming, and cooks a mean breakfast! The Inn is charming and well-kept as is the beautiful property. The restaurant was very nice, and the lava cake was fantastic! Sometimes lava cakes can be too sweet, but this one was just right. We told our server this and it turned out that she was the baker! Doug's sweet little hound, Katie, made the stay complete. Hope to return again to this lovely gem.

I am not going into detail about this dish or that. What impresses is that an inn almost inside the Franconia Notch State Park, and which has been around for 65 years, actually doesn't show up on GPS. It's almost like the locals want to keep it their secret. The kitchen closes at 8pm on a Friday night in the height of ski season. But you don't need it to be open longer. Go sit and eat and enjoy from six to eight, and then take an after dinner drink into the library and relax. The chef apparently asked to come here from another successful venue to help the inn's owners of the past two put the place back on the map. The owners are evidently a little worried about the effect of global warming on their business, which is ski-driven, and I was happy to be able to help out as much as one man can. You'll see a picture of a rather remote celebrity in the guest brochure in your room, and wonder how the place ever fell into obscurity. It was apparently built as an inn in the 1940s and has yet remained under the radar for much of recent memory. So, in short, it has a lot of people putting a lot of heart into it, and it shows up in how carefully they balance the rustic and the modern. How clean and organized on the one hand and how old steam heating may leak from time to time, on the other. Real charm, in this reviewer's opinion. The food is the same way: a steamed turbot special sounds initially like something off A-list haunts in NYC, but here they serve it on a bed of navy beans, apparently rehydrated in lemon juice, and surrounded by brussels sprouts, and topped with an herbed vinaigrette and butter. Something like you might even make at home, but taken up several notches. All good. So if you want to find the place, the ladies at the guest services desk at very nearby Cannon Mountain will direct you two miles downhill from the ski area's entrance. You'll see the signs for the Horse & Hound. Just follow them and not your GPS, which probably does not include a 205 Wells Rd. in lovely but windy Franconia, NH.

This may be the best value accommodation in the area. With an Immaculately clean and beautiful property, cozy and well-appointed rooms, and breakfast is included, it is tough to beat. Less than 5 minutes from Franconia Notch, a wonderful restaurant on-site, and a classic New England lodge atmosphere. We will be back for sure.

My husband and I arrived for a weekend of hiking in the White Mountains. We couldn't have been happier with our stay at the Horse and Hound. The ambiance at the Inn matches perfectly their stock photo of Jane Fontaine standing outside the front sign in all her casual 1940's elegance. The service was prompt (I think it was about 90 seconds after I sat down in the lounge before someone came over to ask me if I'd like a drink from the bar brought over). The room was absolutely spotless and the food both at breakfast and for dinner was at least as good as any Boston-area mid-range fare. The location is very central to many of the hiking trails, and even boasts its own little creek and a few trails perfect for a stroll after dinner. Despite the rain, it was all around a perfect weekend getaway.

we had high hopes but the food was just so so. the lamb and polenta were excellent. but the salad and mussels were very disappointing. the foiled fish tasted like airplane food and they skimp on rice. also we ordered medium rare for steak but instead it was more like a beef jerky. too much seasoning an dried up. sad.