Franklin Manor

This historic manor offers a unique and memorable stay, distinguished by its old-world charm and beautifully preserved character, allowing guests to step back in time. Its signature feature is the elegant atmosphere found throughout the property, from the inviting lounge areas with fireplaces to the well-appointed rooms. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a romantic getaway and history enthusiasts who appreciate its rich heritage. Foodies will also find it appealing due to the exceptional in-house dining experience. Guests consistently praise the attentive and friendly staff who contribute significantly to a welcoming ambiance. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room with a firmer mattress if preferred, as some beds have received mixed feedback, and be aware that the historic nature of the building means some noise transfer between rooms is possible.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the hotel's inviting shared spaces, which include cozy lounge areas with crackling fireplaces, a well-equipped billiard room featuring a pool table, and a charming library. These common areas provide ample opportunities for relaxation and socializing. The hotel also offers convenient parking on-site, though some guests noted it can be limited or tight during busy periods. A well-stocked bar is available, serving a variety of drinks and cocktails. While the property maintains its historic integrity, some guests mentioned the absence of air conditioning, which could be a consideration during warmer weather. Most guests found the Wi-Fi generally available, though a few experienced slow speeds in their rooms.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is somewhat mixed. Most guests found the rooms to be comfortable and generally clean, appreciating the quaint and classy decor that aligns with the manor's historic character. Many praised the comfortable beds and quality linens, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, some guests reported issues such as uncomfortable mattresses that felt worn or uneven, and a few noted minor cleanliness concerns like dust or dead flies on window sills. A recurring theme is the presence of thin walls and squeaky floorboards, leading to noticeable noise levels from adjacent rooms or upstairs, including sounds of showers and conversations. While some bathrooms were described as spacious, others were noted for needing updates, with mentions of mouldy grout or cracked fixtures. In-room amenities typically include toiletries and heating, though some rooms lack a TV or have limited channels.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience, particularly the dinner at the in-house restaurant, Charlotte's, receives overwhelmingly positive reviews. Guests describe it as an "amazing treat" and "superb," highlighting the gastronomic menu featuring French cuisine and an exceptional eight-course tasting menu. The food is consistently praised for being delicious, beautifully presented, and offering excellent value. Breakfast also garners significant positive feedback, described as "generous and delicious." Most guests enjoyed the continental breakfast selection, which typically includes fresh fruit, pastries, toast, yogurt, and good coffee. While some found the breakfast to be basic or noted the absence of hot options, the overall sentiment is that it provides a satisfying start to the day.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it highly convenient for exploring the area. Guests consistently highlight its walking distance to the main street and various attractions. It is just an easy 10 to 15-minute stroll to the waterfront, where guests can access river cruises and the train station. The proximity to natural attractions like Hogarth Falls is also frequently mentioned as a significant advantage. Despite being close to town, the property is situated in a quiet location, ensuring a peaceful stay with very little traffic noise. Parking is available on-site, which many guests found convenient, though some noted that spaces could be limited or challenging to navigate during peak times.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel consistently receive exceptional praise from guests. Reviewers frequently describe the team as friendly staff, attentive service, and incredibly helpful staff, contributing significantly to a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Many guests highlighted the welcoming hosts and their excellent customer service, noting their willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests. The check-in process is often described as smooth and efficient, with staff providing valuable local information and historical insights about the manor. Guests appreciated specific gestures such as bag assistance to rooms, the staff's responsiveness to needs, and their efforts to ensure a pleasant stay, making guests feel truly at home.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel, being a historic property, features stairs to upper rooms and does not have a lift, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues. While the property maintains its classic charm, it lacks air conditioning, a point noted by some during warmer periods. A specific policy mentioned by guests is that Nespresso coffee pods provided in the rooms incur an additional charge. On a unique note, the hotel uses distinctive "privacy Tassie devil" signs instead of standard "do not disturb" signs, adding a quirky touch. The property is currently undergoing renovations under new ownership, with plans to further enhance its facilities. For guests with dietary needs, the hotel offers thoughtful gluten-free breakfast options, including a dedicated toaster to prevent cross-contamination.