I stayed in room #6 at the Melville for 2 nights in July. This was my first B&B experience. We usually stay at "unique" properties instead of chain hotels, but I was travelling alone and wanted to do something different as a treat.
I loved every minute of my stay with Bob, Pricilla, and the dogs Emma and Hannah! The inn is very comfortably furnished; my room was a dream with period furniture, sloped ceilings, crisp linens, soft quilts, and well-placed lighting. I was surprised at how quiet the house and neighborhood was; room six is just at the top of the main stairway but I never heard any noise at all. I'm a tall, plus-sized gal, and thought the bathroom was lovely with a large vanity, shower stall with a nice height on the shower head, and room to move around. The wifi was a great feature as I unfortunately had to tote my laptop and work.
I can't say enough about the full breakfast Pricilla so graciously puts out! Fresh fruit cups, juices, coffee, a great selection of teas, daily homemade breads; the two days I stayed we had pancakes with Vermont maple syrup, and then Eggs Melville which was a puff pastry loaded with scrambled eggs, cheeses and fresh tri-colored peppers. And the granola is really worth talking about, especially mixed with the vanilla yogurt each day.
The afternoon tea and fresh-baked cookies were a treat, as well as the fully-stocked frig for guests with a variety of sodas, juices, and waters. I enjoyed my tea in the guest living room, where a wide variety of local reading material is available. The side garden was also a happy spot to take an afternoon break after touring the mansions.
Note on vehicles - take the smallest vehicle possible! The streets of Newport weren't built for today's land yachts, and you will appreciate the ability to park easier all over town with a smaller ride.
I thought the rate I paid was well within line for the value. Think about what that parking space behind the inn is worth, as well as that can't-be-matched breakfast! Melville is a perfect location for you to get out and walk everywhere. I drove to the mansions, Ocean Drive, and to Gooseberry Beach, but walked everywhere else. Oh, I also drove to Narragansett, which was a fun little half-day trip, even on a rainy day. Stop at the Psychic Kitty in North Kingston for all things "pets!"
I am recommending The Melville House to family and friends headed to Newport, and would happily stay here again.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
Would I recommend this hotel to my best friend?
Absolutely!
I recommend this hotel for:
A romantic getaway, Girlfriend getaway, Older Travellers, tourists
I do not recommend this hotel for:
Young Singles, Great pool scene, Families with Small Children, Families with Teenagers
I selected this hotel as a top choice for:
Beach / Sun, Museums / Cultural / Historical sites