I loved this place because it has a long history. Since 1783 Fairlawn is standing on the junction of Madge Lane and Sudder Street. During the Second World War it was requisitioned for Canadian airforce personnel and for two years was known as "Canada House".
This is quite a charming place, nice people. The garden is a wonderful place to relax, read, enjoy a nice Indian beer.
The food is rather bland but o.k. I would suggest to explore other indian restaurants. There are plenty nearby. Breakfast is fine, included in the price of room rental,

Would recommend for a short stay.

I would say good for one trip-- the first manager we met at the desk was unfriendly but later desk staff were kind and helpful. Food was not so exciting and everything was a bit worn. Children loved all the knick-knacks though and is in a convenient location. Not for the business traveller.

this place was recommended by lonely planet?!? The staff was rude and unfriendly. the food was not fresh and bland. the rooms were filthy. we found feces in our bed. the management gave us their 'sincerest apology'. all in all worst stay in all of India!!! $60 a night??? not worth 60 rupees!

We stayed at the Fairlawn for 3 nights in September 07 and found it to be perfectly adequate. Staff were courteous and tried to be helpful, the room was clean although very spartan and basic (reminded me of a student flat), there were no hot water problems, & TV worked just fine. The only thing with the room is that all the windows were shuttered and curtained and we didn't attempt to open them. You might not like this if you are prone to claustrophobia. Also bring your own soap, shampoo etc as no toileteries supplied. We chose the B&B option which includes breakfast and afternoon tea, as others have commented the full board menu did indeed look bland and strangely eclectic. Be aware that you can only buy beer at the beer garden so you have to go elsewhere for other alcoholic drinks.Also be prepared for hawkers and beggars as soon as you step onto Sudder Street but this is the norm in any tourist location in India.