New Hampshire has plenty of tourists, and therefore plenty of places to stay. Sometimes it seems that they all fall into two categories though - huge mass market chains, or bed and breakfasts in old Victorian houses crowded with antiques and floral wallpaper. This Portsmouth hotel, however, breaks that mold.
The Ale House Inn, perfectly situated in downtown Portsmouth, has a fascinating history. The building, starting in 1871, was a warehouse named (after several changes) the Portsmouth Brewing Company. For years it held kegs of beer as they fermented - but all that came to an end in 1917 with Prohibition.
A century has passed since the building housed a brewery, but the hotel has a quirky character that embraces elements of that heritage. For one, guests are greeted with complimentary local beers. It's got a bit of antique charm too - notice that the room keys are real keys! However, those touches are blended with modern design and furnishing - nothing reminiscent of your grandma's house here.
There's plenty of beer-themed decor to be found throughout the hotel as well.
With only 10 rooms, the inn is cozy and quiet. It doesn't serve food, other than the big of snacks in the common area - all the better for you to get out and explore Portsmouth.
To further encourage that exploration, the inn has a fleet of bikes for its guests to use. They also offer discounts on local activities from golfing to cooking classes.
The rooms are all bright and cheerful, with modern furnishings and historic charm.
They come equipped with iPads for your use, as well as neat books about beer, music, and more.
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The common area is also a great place to hang out and enjoy a local beer, with its comfortable furniture and more books to peruse.
When you've come in from a filling meal, put your feet up by the fire for a while before you call it a night. Ahhh, perfect relaxation.
Celebrating an anniversary? We think this is the perfect spot for a romantic weekend in Portsmouth. Just trying to get away for a night with your friends? It's great for that too!
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