We stayed at Barclay House at the end of a 3 week trip across Canada by train, stopping off enroute several times, so in need of some relaxation before flying home to the UK. - and this is what we had.
J-J and his team were wonderful - they know how to make their guests feel at home. Thay knew exactly when to expect us (early arrivals); they ordered taxis ( arrived on time); when we said we would be catching an early ferry to Vancouver Island,they said they would provide a continental breakfast in our room(and it included yogourt and bilberries). Our room was peaceful with a very comfortable bed and a TV that worked. Breakfasts were delightful and filling - enough to carry you through to the afternoon.
We had visited Vancouver twice before so were not planning to do a lot of sightseeing. However the location of Barclay House meant that we walked everywhere and saw places with fresh eyes; Stanley Park,Chinatown and the classical Chinese garden,English Bay at sunset,Granville Island, Water St (but don't stay too long on Hastings St!!)

I have stayed at B&Bs in the US & Europe, this was my first time staying in an urban B&B in North America (I have stayed in urban B&Bs in Italy). From vermont to naples, from $150-$600, I have had the opportunity to stay at a wide range of B&Bs and I choose to stay at B&Bs for the local flavor, gourmet breakfasts and comfortable/attention-to-detail accommodations in a smaller venue.

Based on the reviews, press & price I had high expectations of the Barclay House but it turned out to be just average and in my opinion not worth the price, perhaps if it was a 1/3 cheaper the amenities would be in line with the cost.

In relation to my previous experiences I would list the follows pros & cons for the Barclay House.

Pros:
- pretty facade to the house, tasteful decoration of common spaces & rooms
- enthusiastic and available manager & staff
- central location
- complimentary bottled water, refilled daily
- on-site parking
- mini-fridge

Cons:
- breakfast: hot entree was average (something a home cook could easily prepare), fruit & baked goods were below average, the food was also somewhat repetitive
- rooms: a little cramped, a little dusty, some dirty smudges on furniture, no aircon, windows do not open/stay open, surrounding buildings can see into rooms if curtains are left open
- beds/mattresses: somewhat uncomfortable, slight sagging in the middle
- noisy & rowdy building across the street, especially at night
- thought it was odd that we were required to pay up front, even before we had seen the rooms

Because I stay at B&Bs primarily for comfort & the breakfasts, even understanding that the Barclay House is situated in an urban environment it did not meet my highest expectations. Many of the amenities that people are raving about and that I have listed here are standard at all quality B&Bs and therefore should not be considered above average. And in fact many B&Bs do a better job at these amenities and include many more at a lower cost. Therefore I can only give the Barclay House an average recommendation.

My husband and I enjoy staying in B&B's because we have found the intimate atmosphere suits us. Upon our "late" arrival we were greeted by Dennis, who made us feel right at home, offering suggestions for dinner and giving us an orientation of Vancouver. We stayed in the Haideaway room, with it's own private entrance. We had the cozy backyard to ourselves each afternoon. The location was truly fantastic, close to all the shops, restaurants, and seawall. Each morning at breakfast, Dennis would give us suggestions about what to see, where to go and where not to go! After six days and perfect weather(!) we were going home. We asked Dennis if he would take us to the airport instead of having to take a taxi and he jumped at the opportunity! (Of course we payed him like we would have payed the taxi) He really made our vacation special! If you want to feel "taken care of", this is the place!

Ok so this place is a little pricey for a B&B, but if u're tired of staying at large 'brand' hotels and want to try something a little different the this is a great option. my family and i took 3 rooms over a few nights. I think the forest room is the best of the 3 we stayed in. The service is very personal, which may, or may not be a plus depending on personal preference. Its an easy 5 minute walk to downtown. Located in a leafy suburb you do occasionally get noise from the local houses nearby but nothing too major. Breakfast was very different but good. I'm picky with foodand they were happy to try and find and alternative for me on a few occasios. Overall an excellent stay and definately worth it if you want to escape those big hotel chains you always end up staying at becasue you dont know any better! 5 stars!