The Bow Hotel

We were staying in another hotel at the far edge of Portsmouth (without a vehicle) and changed our lodging for our final night in town. We changed it, chiefly because we wanted to be closer to the center of town, for sight-seeing, dining, etc.. This was a good move. Because of the central location of the Bow Hotel, on the last night in town, we got to walk across the bridge to Maine for dinner and had a more relaxed breakfast on the morning of our departure than we otherwise would have.

Geez, this place was expensive. I'm wondering why there seems to be so little middle-ground in places like Portsmouth, between the Travelodge and the Days Inn (or equivalent) up by Rte 95, on one hand, and the boutique-y Bow Hotel in the center of town, on the other. We enjoyed the Bow Hotel's amenities--beautifully appointed, fastidiously maintained room--and so on. But the location convenience really prompted our choice to switch hotels, and we would likely have chosen a hostel or whatnot if readily available. Also, it would have been nicer to interact with a human at the desk than it was to deal with staff remotely on the phone throughout our stay.

I liked the refurbished rooms, the cleanliness, the fancy bathrobes, and the pantry. The location is just about perfect and within walking distance of all that downtown Portsmouth has to offer. The off-street parking availability is a bonus. I also appreciated that help was both responsive and only a phone call away.

The rooms could use a real blanket to be used on chilly nights. I think parking should be included in the room price. Two of my companions are not particularly techno-savvy and had they been alone would have struggled with instructions for keyless entry.

The room was cozy and clean and the location was prime. Centrally located and walking distance from everything Portsmouth and even the Kittery side since you are right next to the bridge to Maine and walking distance to several eating locations on that side.

Location, efficient and easy to check in, park and get settled. No need for a car to get around the city and experience Portsmouth's charm.

Location.

The church bells started before 7am. VERY drafty windows with roller shades, had to put stuff in front of the shades when drawn to keep them from blowing into the room. The roller shades did not block out the light, so if you have a room with an east facing window next to the bed like I did, you get a beam of sunlight straight into your eyes at sunrise. Uncomfortable feather pillows. My allergies did not like them. The bathroom sink felt like it would come off the wall if any pressure was put on it. ONE super tiny trashcan with an inner diameter akin to a solo cup, it was annoying to put trash in it. Parking is a required accessory, yet an additional $35 fee, and isn't guaranteed when renting a room. The lot is shared so it is a tight fit to park even with the hotel's 7 reserved spots.