Sadly we had but one night with the Jameses on a short trip around the lovely Central Otago/Waitaki region on the occasion of our 30th wedding anniversary. Prior to booking we had read the glowing reviews on this site and can happily confirm that our experience was also 'exceptional' in all regards. We stayed in the Elizabeth Room which was... More

If you like the laidback elegance, the attention to detail and the personal touches everywhere, in addition to a gorgeous garden and an exceptional cooking then Pen-y-bryn Lodge will delight you as well as it has been for us. James and James seem to have a talent to be attentive without bothering, entertaining without overdoing :simply two adorable persons. Thank... More

My wife and I spent three marvellous nights in Pen-y-bryn Lodge. The hospitality and culinary skills of our hosts, 'The Jameses', are exceptional. They have created a beautiful home, which is very much in keeping with the Victorian style of the Lodge (constructed in 1889). There is plenty of space for rest and relaxation and there is even a Billiards... More

Pen-y-Bryn's James and James are the quintessential embodiment of hospitality and conversationalists not to be excelled. The gardens and the roses are beautiful and reminiscent of the English style (despite the drought). Culinary skills are truly amazing; seemingly no small matter is to be ignored so home-made jams and pastries - even home-made soy milk are presented as if routine.... More

Pen-y-bryn is a beautiful, historic house perched high in Oamaru with views of the Pacific. James and James' love and respect for their home and its history is clear to see. The rooms have been furnished to complement the era of the building yet provide all the modern traveller may require. We arrived on a very wet afternoon to be... More

Pen-y-Bryn is a beautiful house surrounded by wonderful gardens. It is located in a very quiet part of the town but is close to the main N1. The public rooms are really stunning with ceilings that must be 15ft high. The bedrooms enjoy the same high ceilings and are very traditional and stylish with all the little touches that you... More

Pen-y-bryn Lodge is an amazing place, full of history. James and James (the two host's) are very welcoming and we were looked after so well. The 6pm drinks & canapes were outstanding and the breakfast in the morning (everything homemade) blew me away. Unfortunately it was a flying visit - I would love to come back and spend some time... More

My partner and I stayed one night in October 2012 and dined with 10 invited guests for a special birthday celebration. We chose Pen y Bryn because I grew up in Oamaru and had always wanted to visit this property and because of the very complimentary reviews received on Trip Advisor. Unfortunately Pen y Bryn did not merit 5 stars... More

We stayed one night 17 January. The lovely old house is in excellent condition with much of its original furnishings and decoration. The two James' were incredibly good hosts, socialising with and making welcome all guests, serving canapés and drinks in the evening and a wonderful breakfast - all produce from the property and region. Garden amazing, overall friendliness and... More