I have to share a great experience with you- definitely the best weekend trip we’ve ever had! My husband and I, along with some family, took a fabulous trip to a hidden treasure of an inn located in Dover, DE.
At a comfortable hour a half’s drive from our home, Little Creek Inn Bed & Breakfast run by pseudo-retirees Bob & Carol Thomas is a place we’re sure to return, as soon as we can. Although this was a first for most of us, my parents have visited 3 times. The refurbished 1800’s house is situated on a lovely open field. It is accompanied by an old time garage-turned-gym, and a separate building for a large, state of the art industrial kitchen in which Bobby hosts cooking lessons for interested house guests. He owned and ran several restaurants in their native New York, and Maryland’s eastern shore.
Carol’s tastefully eclectic antique décor in the main house is delightful- there is a brightness and character to every room. From art to photographs to flowers to linens and china, it’s worth it to take a stroll throughout the whole house- maybe a couple times! The front entryway directs you to a sunroom off the cozy kitchen, a classy yet comfortable great room, and a dining room of several wooden café tables for 4. You’ll be greeted at the door by a furry, golden father and son pair named Hank and Jake- the best-behaved and sweetest dogs you’ll find. Pet them, play with them, or just say hello as you pass in the hall- they’ll accommodate your comfort level. You can even bring your own pets.
The wooden staircases take you to the 2nd and 3rd floors where you will find 5 guest rooms with anywhere from double to king size beds, carefully made with fine linens and quilts. Most rooms contain private baths adjacent to the bedroom, some with Jacuzzi tubs. Back on the first floor, a pantry of china, glasses, and dinnerware also has a filtered water dispenser- you’ll need it while munching on the snacks Bobby and Carol provide upon arrival. There’s also a pool for summertime.
For one couple, one night, cooking lessons, snacks, the best dinner, dessert and breakfast ever, and the run of their liquor cabinet and CD collection, it could run approximately 250.00-300.00 (please don’t quote me on prices, as with anything, I’m sure it could be subject to change depending on seasons, availability, etc.) It also includes the warm, down-to-earth, comedic, interesting, genuine host couple worth a million dollars each. Ask them anything about their background, experiences, travels, and the inn. Pick up a few cooking tips, and don’t forget the menu and recipe sheets they thoughtfully compile for you- you’ll be sure to want to attempt them yourselves.
No wonder Bobby and Carol have repeat business, thank you notes stashed all over the house, and glowing write-ups in respected sources such as Southern Living Magazine. Their generous and nurturing hearts are well-complemented by their playful banter amongst one another, and with their guests. You can use their home as a quiet or romantic refuge, enjoying the peace and the views, or as a friend/family gathering.
Bobby and Carol can be hands-on or respectful of your space. But I’ll say, we prefer their hands-on approach! We sat around the kitchen and watched Bobby “perform” at the stove as Carol prepared everything else, including a dimly lit, fine-dining experience. We listened to their stories, asked questions, shared things about ourselves, snapped pictures, and drank wine. It’s very much like a relaxing trip to your favorite relative’s house. Wear slippers, swap stories, snack, play games, read a book, nap.
There is much more information on their website, this is just a snapshot of our weekend. Please visit them online at littlecreekinn, then visit them in Delaware! They’re the only place like it in their area- a welcome change from large, impersonal, repetitious hotels. For us, they’re the only choice- we’ll never look at bed & breakfasts the same again. Book all the rooms and bring your own friends and family, or book one room and meet new people. If you like good company, food, drinks, and a nice drive, you need to visit just once. I know it will become your favorite spot. Thanks Bobby and Carol for your hospitality, generosity, and friendship!