We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Inn at Glencairn: Traveler Reviews

3.5 of 5
3301 Lawrenceville Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Hotel website
Hotel amenities
Inn at Glencairn
Ranked #1 of 3 Princeton B&B and Inns
Enter dates & see best prices*
Show Prices
*from our partners
Write a Review

78 reviews from our community

    Trip type
Traveler rating
    64
    8
    5
    1
    0
Date Rating
NJ
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
4 hotel reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
“Very good service, but in a 3-star interior (kind of?)”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed October 5, 2012

I had a really tough time accurately ranking the Inn at Glencairn. I was looking for a nice, quiet, comfortable spot convenient to Princeton for a weekend getaway for my spouse's birthday. We did get that. We were also treated to very friendly and accommodating service by the Innkeepers (Jon and Suzanne). The location is quiet, the Inn is a very old colonial era stone house that has been converted to a B&B. For the price (~$200/night) the Inn is nice and reasonably priced for what it is. And I suppose the most important aspect of the B&B (for me anyway) is the first "B" -- and the Bed was quite comfortable. Before I sound overly critical below, I want to be clear that I would recommend this place, but want to give an accurate description of what it is -- which I think, in a way, can be lost in the numerous 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor. This may well be a 5-star place w/ respect to the friendly innkeepers, but it is by no means a 5-star location w/ respect to its facilities, or its food. In those respects, it is 3-stars at best. But I gave it a 4-star review, because it is a nice location with nice owners who will treat you in a friendly and respectful manner.

The house itself, is very old, and parts of it date back to the 1600s. While it certainly has a quaint and authentic feel, it is not exactly fully renovated to the point that it could be. So expect creaky stairs, seeing through some floor-boards to the level below, etc., etc. Some might like this, some might not. The room we stayed in was fairly spartan (perhaps in keeping with the early colonial feel), but the bathroom was very barebones. (E.g., trash can from Target, uncovered box of tissues sitting on the back of the toilet, etc.) The bathrooms look circa 1980s renovated. Certainly not inviting or luxurious - but perfectly clean and functional.
I wanted the darkest and quietest room we could get, because my spouse is a sensitive sleeper. Jon was very accommodating on the phone, and said he'd put us in the back of the house, away from the (low-traveled) road, and in a dark room. It was fine -- but one of my big pet peeves was present: basically, no functional blinds. There were translucent curtains. We had to hang a blanket over the curtain rod. There appeared to be actual functioning wooden shutters outside the windows, but they were covered with spider webs, leaves, etc., and looked like they hadn't been moved in years -- and the window didn't look like it had been opened in years. So we left well-enough alone.

We have stayed in other very old houses that have been converted into B&Bs, but I guess the conversions were more recent and more significant overhauls Of course, in those cases (where the bathrooms, for example, were spa-like and high-end, with things like new clawfoot tubs, inviting shower spaces, candles, etc., etc.), the cost per night was higher (say $3-350/night). So again, for the price, this place is worth it -- but understand that this is not a luxurious house, it is a functional one (with a comfy bed!)

Likewise, breakfast was tasty and adequate, but no-frills: we got a waffle with one sliced strawberry on top. And coffee. Presentation, at a minimum, could be much-improved. No eggs, no bacon, no ham, etc. There may have been muffins, but I don't recall. We *were* treated to a very tasty home-made yogurt smoothie upon coming into breakfast, which was nice and appreciated. So well-meaning constructive criticism to the Innkeepers if they read this: dress up the breakfast a little - you can do it on the cheap. A small glass bowl of fruit with the waffle, for example, with a dollop of whipped cream. Some artisanal breads, cheeses, etc., at the table, maybe a big bowl of mixed fruit. Easy, right? And it adds a more high-end touch. (Also one of the Innkeepers came into the breakfast room at one point, and poured a cup of coffee for himself from the pot on the table - tacky? homey? You decide).

The Innkeepers also made a little cake for my spouse's birthday and sang happy birthday, which was quite nice, and truly appreciated.

I hope the above it helpful to anyone looking for a spot to rest their head near Princeton! I'd recommend this place, for the money, and given its quiet and slightly out of the way (but convenient) location, I think it beats out others that are either more expensive or louder.

Room Tip: Ask the Innkeepers, tell them what you want, and they'll help you out. Probably better to ask f...
See more room tips
  • Stayed September 2012, traveled as a couple
    • 4 of 5 stars Value
    • 4 of 5 stars Location
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 3 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 4 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 6
Ask LawDogg about Inn at Glencairn
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Marlton, New Jersey
Contributor
12 reviews 12 reviews
8 hotel reviews
Reviews in 8 cities Reviews in 8 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
“College Tour”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed August 19, 2012

We went to visit two schools in the Princeton area this weekend and we stayed at the Inn at Glencairn. What a wonderful B&B. We were in the Baldwin suite which has 2 rooms and a bathroom. There was plenty of room for my husband, daughter and I. It is very close to the Princeton shops and restaurants. It was very quiet at night and we had a wonderful breakfast on Sunday. I would recommend the Inn to anyone visiting that area.

Room Tip: The Baldwin suite is the only room that a family can stay in.....the other 4 rooms are for couples.
See more room tips
  • Stayed August 2012, traveled with family
    • 4 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 2
Ask Leaner65 about Inn at Glencairn
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Kingwood, TX
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
7 hotel reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
5 helpful votes 5 helpful votes
“Great stay”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed August 14, 2012

Our second stay and could not be more pleased. Jon and Suzanne very welcoming. Will be returning this fall visiting Princeton. Breakfast was good, homemade cookies always available and delicious. Wouldn't stay anywhere else in Princeton.

  • Stayed June 2012, traveled with family
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Ask RichardKingwood_TX about Inn at Glencairn
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
NJ
Senior Contributor
24 reviews 24 reviews
6 hotel reviews
Reviews in 15 cities Reviews in 15 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
“One night in Princeton”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed August 13, 2012

My husband had a work function in Princeton and we stayed one night at the Inn. We had a lovely experience. There was a minor issue with a room and they quickly switch to another room. Provided glasses and ice for our champagne and got a cake for my birthday. Suzanne and John were wonderful I would recommend this B&B to anyone.

  • Stayed August 2012, traveled on business
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 4 of 5 stars Location
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 4 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Ask genine810 about Inn at Glencairn
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ithaca, New York
2 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
“Wonderful Experience!”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed July 21, 2012

As background, I'm a student interning in Princeton for the summer. The past week was so hot here (100+!) that my mother surprised me with a few nights at the Inn at Glencairn, and I could not have been happier-- and not just because of the air conditioning!

Upon arrival, I was worried, because I hadn't printed out the email confirmation my mother forwarded to me, but my fear was quickly assuaged as I was met in the driveway by Jon, the manager, who addressed me by name. Check-in was easy, and Jon gave me a quick tour of the house, which is marvelous-- both old and stunning. I stayed in the Hunt Room, which is well-appointed with a fantastically high poster bed and cute seating area. The bathroom is truly lovely, with a sparkling shower and pedestal sink.

Breakfast was more than fine, consisting of a starter (strawberries and cream, fruit plate) and a warm entree, as well as a selection of bread, muffins, coffee, and tea. The company of the other guests was most welcome, and I never felt rushed or hurried. Jon and his fellow manager, Susie, were very accommodating, which I really appreciated. No one made a fuss about my coming in late after a night out with a friend, or when I was a bit late to breakfast.

For me, it's the personal touches that really count-- Jon offered me an umbrella on a rainy morning, and I was given a power strip when it was realized that I had too many electronics for the number of accessible outlets in my room.

As I told Jon this morning at breakfast, I felt like a princess while at the Inn at Glencairn. I will absolutely recommend the Inn to any Princeton visitors, and I hope to have an opportunity to stay here again. Thank you so much, Jon and Susie!

  • Stayed July 2012, traveled solo
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 4 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 3
Ask afoodienewbie about Inn at Glencairn
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Hampton Inn Princeton
Great value on a similar hotel
Princeton, NJ
4.5 of 5 stars 212 Reviews
Show Prices
Still looking for a hotel?
Travelers also viewed these Princeton hotels
Hampton Inn Princeton 4.5 of 5 stars 212 reviews The Peacock Inn 3.5 of 5 stars 49 reviews The Westin Princeton at Forresta... 3.5 of 5 stars 273 reviews Nassau Inn 3.0 of 5 stars 257 reviews
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d506465?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d114483?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d92563?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
Show Prices ABS:HotelCheckRates-d92560?&src=ShowUserReviewsHotels&fromServlet=ShowUserReviews&Action=QC_AlsoViewed_Hero
View all 14 hotels in Princeton, ranked by popularity

Been to Inn at Glencairn? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Additional Information about Inn at Glencairn

Also Known As:
Inn At Glencairn Hotel
Inn At Glencairn Hotel Princeton
Address: 3301 Lawrenceville Road, Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone Number:
Region: United States > New Jersey > Princeton
Amenities:
Free Breakfast Free High-Speed Internet Free Parking Suites
Hotel Style:
Ranked #1 of 3 B&Bs / Inns in Princeton
Price Range: $$
Hotel Class:3.5 star (3.5*)
Official Description (provided by the hotel):
Inn at Glencairn is a bed and breakfast in a fully renovated 1736 Georgian manor on nearly three acres of park-like setting. Guests will enjoy the unique historic setting while being pampered with many modern amenities including updated en-suite baths, comfortable new mattresses, individual heat controls, flat screen televisions, and wireless high-speed Internet access throughout the manor. Many guest rooms feature four poster beds, antique dressers and armoires, and 18th century woodwork. ... more   less 
Reservation Options:
TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Hotels.com, Priceline, Expedia, Travelocity, Venere, Tingo and Hotwire so you can book your Inn at Glencairn reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Inn at Glencairn, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

  • Manage your listing
Inn at Glencairn
Enter dates & see best prices* (from our partners)
Show Prices