The Duke Of Marlborough
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Summary of reviewsThe Duke Of Marlborough, located in the heart of Russell, offers a spectacular waterfront location that guests consistently praise. The hotel's prime position on the esplanade provides sweeping ocean and bay views, easy access to the beach and proximity to various restaurants and attractions. The historic charm of the building, adorned with picturesque decor and sunset views, further enhances the overall guest experience.
While the breakfast offerings evoke mixed feelings, many guests find the meals, particularly on the veranda, lovely and hearty. Despite some critiques regarding the variety and portion sizes, the breakfast service is generally efficient and friendly. On the other hand, the dinner service garners considerable acclaim. Guests highlight exceptional dishes like the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, enjoying their meals in a fine dining atmosphere with excellent service and live music.
The rooms are another standout feature, described as clean, well-maintained and beautifully decorated. Spacious balconies and stunning waterfront views are commonly praised and the extremely comfortable beds and modern facilities contribute to a luxurious feeling. Although there are occasional comments about room sizes and ventilation, the overall feedback emphasizes comfort and style.
Guests frequently commend the staff for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism with particular praise for the reception team. The warm and accommodating service contributes significantly to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere.
Some minor issues are noted with the wifi connectivity, which could benefit from improvements, particularly in the rooms. However, the hotel's overall ambiance and historical charm often outweigh these limitations for most guests.
The beachside location is highly appreciated, offering immediate access to the bay for a tranquil coastal experience, despite some rocky areas. Parking is convenient and satisfactory with options for both free and secure parking, enhancing the sense of ease for guests.
Beds are another highlight, praised for their comfort and superb bed linens, though preferences on firmness vary among guests. The hotel also caters well to accessibility needs, offering ramps and large beds in accessible rooms, though some challenges with navigation and parking for handicapped guests are noted.
Embodying rich history, The Duke Of Marlborough captivates guests with its old-world charm and vintage feel, seamlessly blending historical significance with modern amenities. The unique, boutique style adds to the intimate and charming atmosphere, making it a favored spot for romantic getaways and special celebrations.
In summary, The Duke Of Marlborough offers a memorable experience characterized by a picturesque location, exceptional dining, comfortable accommodations and warm hospitality, wrapped in historical allure and boutique charm.
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While the breakfast offerings evoke mixed feelings, many guests find the meals, particularly on the veranda, lovely and hearty. Despite some critiques regarding the variety and portion sizes, the breakfast service is generally efficient and friendly. On the other hand, the dinner service garners considerable acclaim. Guests highlight exceptional dishes like the slow-cooked lamb shoulder, enjoying their meals in a fine dining atmosphere with excellent service and live music.
The rooms are another standout feature, described as clean, well-maintained and beautifully decorated. Spacious balconies and stunning waterfront views are commonly praised and the extremely comfortable beds and modern facilities contribute to a luxurious feeling. Although there are occasional comments about room sizes and ventilation, the overall feedback emphasizes comfort and style.
Guests frequently commend the staff for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism with particular praise for the reception team. The warm and accommodating service contributes significantly to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere.
Some minor issues are noted with the wifi connectivity, which could benefit from improvements, particularly in the rooms. However, the hotel's overall ambiance and historical charm often outweigh these limitations for most guests.
The beachside location is highly appreciated, offering immediate access to the bay for a tranquil coastal experience, despite some rocky areas. Parking is convenient and satisfactory with options for both free and secure parking, enhancing the sense of ease for guests.
Beds are another highlight, praised for their comfort and superb bed linens, though preferences on firmness vary among guests. The hotel also caters well to accessibility needs, offering ramps and large beds in accessible rooms, though some challenges with navigation and parking for handicapped guests are noted.
Embodying rich history, The Duke Of Marlborough captivates guests with its old-world charm and vintage feel, seamlessly blending historical significance with modern amenities. The unique, boutique style adds to the intimate and charming atmosphere, making it a favored spot for romantic getaways and special celebrations.
In summary, The Duke Of Marlborough offers a memorable experience characterized by a picturesque location, exceptional dining, comfortable accommodations and warm hospitality, wrapped in historical allure and boutique charm.
Boutique-style Hotel
Located in Russell, Bay of Islands, this historic hotel offers a charming and picturesque waterfront setting. Known for its classic accommodations, friendly service, and delicious cuisine. Guests can enjoy exploring the town's historic sites, taking boat trips, and relaxing on the beach.
Historic Hotel
The building was initially known as the "Johnny Johnstons Grog Shop" in 1827. In the 1830s, the port was a popular destination among exhausted whalers and traders after staying a year in the seas. Without law enforcement agencies and an abundance of cheap liquor, prostitution was a lucrative and popular job at the port. Stricken by the everything but ideal scene, Johnny sought to change not just the hotel but also its environment. He changed the hotel's name to "The Duke of Marlborough", the world's richest man to reintroduce elegance and respect on the place. Throughout the years, the building suffered fire and wars but the owners consistently rebuilt its walls.
Beachfront Hotel
Located in Russell, this historic hotel offers a prime waterfront location. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the bay and easy access to the beach. The hotel provides a range of amenities and a charming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing coastal escape.
Hotel near The Beach
Located in Russell, this hotel is positioned right on the waterfront. It offers guests immediate access to the beach and stunning sea views, blending historical charm with modern amenities.
Family Friendly Hotel
Located in Russell, this hotel offers a historical experience with modern comforts. It is popular with families and provides a unique stay in a scenic location.
Romantic Hotel
This historic hotel in Paihia offers a charming waterfront location. Its combination of history and excellent service makes it a popular choice for a romantic stay.
Hotel with Parking
This hotel provides parking for guests. Situated in a prime location, it allows guests to easily explore the surrounding area without worrying about parking. The hotel blends historic charm with modern convenience.
EV charging stations
Accessible Hotel
The Duke Of Marlborough provides one accessible parking space and an elevator with a 35-inch wide door. It features a front entrance ramp, visual alarms in hallways, a well-lit path to the entrance, and a stair-free path to the entrance. Wheelchair accessible rooms and facilities for disabled guests are available.
Hotel with Gym
Hotel guests have complimentary access to a modern, air-conditioned gym facility nearby. It includes a running machine, spin bike, rower, and a range of resistance and free weights.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Hotel Casa Fauna offers EV charging stations, making it easier for guests to charge their electric vehicles. The hotel’s amenities and charging facilities cater to eco-conscious travelers.
Cheap Hotel
Guest Reviews
Nestled in the heart of Russell, 'The Duke Of Marlborough' boasts a prime waterfront location that guests consistently rave about. The hotel is beautifully positioned right on the esplanade, offering sweeping views of the ocean and bay. Visitors love the easy access to the beach, wharf and an array of nearby restaurants and attractions. The historic charm of the building, adorned with art and picturesque decor, enhances the overall experience. The venue's impeccable placement makes it not only the central point of activity but also a serene retreat with stunning sunsets and tranquil sea sounds. Whether exploring the Bay of Islands or simply unwinding by the water, the hotel's location is unmatched, providing a perfect blend of convenience, beauty and historical significance.
The breakfast experience at The Duke Of Marlborough elicited mixed feelings from guests. Many praised the breakfast, describing it as lovely, delicious and hearty with some guests highlighting the well-cooked muesli and a Duke’s big breakfast as particular standouts. The breakfast service was frequently praised for its efficiency and the friendliness of the staff. Multiple guests enjoyed a fantastic breakfast on the hotel's beautiful veranda, enhancing the overall dining experience.
However, some guests were less impressed. Issues such as limited selection, overcooked eggs and dry omelettes were noted. There were also comments about the lack of more straightforward, affordable breakfast options and the absence of fresh fruit and juices on the menu. A few reviews mentioned slow service and found the portion sizes insufficient considering the price, while some felt the breakfast buffet lacked variety and became monotonous for extended stays.
Overall, while The Duke Of Marlborough excelled in delivering a satisfying breakfast to many, there is room for improvement in variety, portion sizes and consistency in service.
The Duke of Marlborough consistently impresses guests with its dining offerings, earning much praise for its exceptional dinners and breakfasts. Visitors rave about the fantastic, delicious and beautifully prepared food, often highlighting the standout slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Many describe their meals as incredible with some noting a memorable experience dining on the veranda during sunset accompanied by live guitar music.
The restaurant is commended not just for the quality of its meals, but also for the excellent service and atmosphere. Guests appreciate the fine dining experience with several mentioning the outstanding service and beautiful decor. Weekend dinner services seem particularly well-received with guests noting the brilliance of their Saturday night meals.
Despite the high praise, there are a few critiques regarding the menu. Some guests found it limited and uninspiring with specific mentions of the lack of vegetarian options. Occasional comments about greasy fish and overall disappointing meals are rare but noted.
Overall, the Duke of Marlborough offers a stellar dining experience that most guests find exceptional, making it a highlight of their stay. The combination of great food, service and ambiance ensures a memorable meal, even if the menu could use some expansion to cater to all dietary preferences.
The Duke of Marlborough has garnered positive acclaim for its rooms, highlighted by lovely decor and high levels of comfort. Guests repeatedly praise the cleanliness and tidiness with many emphasizing how well-appointed and stylish the rooms are. Spaciousness is another frequently mentioned attribute with various remarks noting large balconies and stunning views, particularly of the waterfront.
The rooms are described as comfortable, featuring extremely comfortable beds and modern facilities, contributing to an overall sense of luxury. The building itself is charming with décor that adds to the ambiance and character of the accommodations. The value for money is frequently mentioned, suggesting that the quality of the rooms meets or exceeds expectations.
Occasionally, guests do note smaller room sizes and issues with ventilation, but these are seen as minor compared to the stronger, positive feedback. Overall, rooms at The Duke of Marlborough are beautifully decorated, fulfill guests' needs comprehensively and enhance the overall stay with their comfort and style.
Nestled in a picturesque location, The Duke Of Marlborough is frequently praised for its comfortable accommodations, particularly the beds. Many guests have found the beds to be extremely comfortable with terms like "super comfortable," "comfy," and "very comfortable" frequently appearing in reviews. The luxurious feel of the bedding has also not gone unnoticed with some describing the bed linen as superb.
However, opinions on the firmness of the beds are varied. While some guests appreciated the softer beds, others felt they were a bit too soft for their liking and a few even found them bouncy or flat. Despite these mixed reviews, most agree that the rooms themselves are very clean and comfortable, providing a pleasant stay overall.
A standout highlight for many is the large, comfortable beds found in the spacious rooms, often paired with positive remarks about the excellent views. Although there are some mentions of tired or less comfortable mattresses, particularly in superior rooms, the general consensus leans towards a restful and enjoyable sleep experience.
The Duke Of Marlborough impresses guests with its high standards of cleanliness and comfort, making it an appealing option for travelers. Reviews consistently highlight the very clean and well-maintained rooms with many guests appreciating the spotless and immaculate condition of their accommodations. The rooms are described as nice, comfortable and tidy, contributing to a pleasant stay.
While the majority of experiences are overwhelmingly positive, a handful of reviews mention minor lapses in housekeeping, such as an occasional unclean bathroom or non-serviced room. However, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Overall, The Duke Of Marlborough stands out as a super clean and comfortable venue with well-appointed rooms and a friendly staff, ensuring a pleasant experience for most guests.
Nestled in a charming location with an old-world feel, 'The Duke of Marlborough' stands out for its exceptional hospitality. Guests frequently commend the staff, describing them as friendly, helpful and accommodating. Many highlight the exceptional service delivered by attentive and professional employees, making interactions pleasant and efficient. Particular praise is given to the front desk and reception staff, who are noted for their accommodating and chatty demeanor.
Though a few isolated comments mention some less friendly interactions, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Waitstaff receive accolades for their excellent service, while the names Max, Nigel and Tracey from reception are specifically noted for being top-notch in their roles. Whether dealing with a smooth check-in process or attentive room service, guests find the staff consistently welcoming and accommodating.
In summary, 'The Duke of Marlborough' offers a blend of historical charm and exceptional service, largely thanks to a dedicated and friendly team that ensures a welcoming experience for every guest.
The Duke Of Marlborough offers a charming stay with a few quirks when it comes to internet connectivity. While some guests reported slow and intermittent wifi, others found the speed to be decent, though not exceptional. Improvements in the wifi signal could enhance the experience, particularly in the rooms where the connection was noted to be unreliable. Despite these challenges, the overall ambiance and appeal of the hotel likely outweigh the wifi limitations for many guests.
The Duke Of Marlborough boasts an enviable location, nestled right next to a beautiful beach. Guests consistently highlight its position directly on the waterfront, offering immediate access to the bay and the ability to take a dip in the sea right outside the front door. The charming hotel features lovely rooms facing the sea, allowing visitors to enjoy the soothing sound of the waves and spectacular views over the wharf and beyond. While the beach is described as somewhat rocky in parts, the stunning seaside surroundings and ease of access to the beach make it an amazing spot for those looking to enjoy a tranquil coastal experience.
The Duke Of Marlborough offers ample parking options that guests find satisfactory and convenient. The availability of both free and secure parking is frequently highlighted, making it a preferred choice for many who prioritize ease of access and peace of mind. Motorcycle enthusiasts particularly appreciate the dedicated parking facilities. While some mention that parking can be a bit of a walk or tight, the overall sentiment remains positive as most find parking to be straightforward and hassle-free. Additionally, the presence of long-term parking at the back is noted as a great feature. The helpful reception staff also contribute to a smooth parking experience. Overall, the parking facilities at The Duke Of Marlborough are considered reliable and accommodating by most visitors.
The Duke Of Marlborough offers a beautifully decorated and well-accessible venue for visitors, particularly noted for its proximity to Russell's historic sites, wharf, restaurants and attractions. The hotel features accessible rooms with ramps and large, comfortable beds, making it a convenient option for many travelers with disabilities. However, some challenges were noted, such as long distances, difficult stair navigation and the absence of handrails in certain areas. Despite the beautiful old building's charm, there were no visible wheelchair access points and parking posed difficulties for handicapped guests. Nonetheless, the excellent reception staff contributed significantly to a positive overall experience.
Nestled in the heart of Russell, 'The Duke Of Marlborough' offers a unique and captivating experience steeped in rich history. This beautiful heritage hotel mesmerizes guests with its old-world charm and vintage feel, creating a sense of nostalgia that's hard to find elsewhere. The historical significance of the building is thoughtfully incorporated into its aesthetic, blending seamlessly with modern amenities to offer both comfort and a touch of the past.
Guests are enchanted by the hotel's charming colonial comfort, which is accentuated by an impressive art collection and elaborate historic decor. The quirky art pieces and old photos in the restaurant area are particularly appreciated, adding to the hotel's distinctive character and storytelling. A stay at this hotel is described as magical, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in a place loaded with history.
The location of 'The Duke Of Marlborough' is also highly praised, providing easy access to the best of Russell while being surrounded by stunning historical elements. The hotel’s cozy yet grand ambiance makes it a perfect getaway for those who cherish history and elegance. Visitors love the sense of history that permeates through every corner of the property, wrapped up in a beautifully renovated and well-kept building that maintains its historical charm.
In summary, 'The Duke Of Marlborough' is more than just a place to stay—it's a historical gem that offers a unique hotel experience. Its classic appeal, coupled with a warm and hospitable atmosphere, ensures that every guest leaves with fond memories and a deeper appreciation for its storied past.
The Duke Of Marlborough impresses with its charming boutique style, providing a unique blend of historical character and modern design. Situated beautifully by the water, it offers well-appointed rooms, some with delightful courtyard terraces. The hotel's small size enhances its intimate and charming atmosphere, making it a true gem. The beautiful decor and thoughtful designs in the rooms elevate the overall experience. Guests repeatedly appreciate the general boutique feel and the lovely staff who contribute to the colonial comfort of this special place.
Nestled in a location that resonates with a romantic ambiance, the Duke of Marlborough stands out as an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Guests appreciate its romantic spot, perfect for birthday or anniversary celebrations. The hotel has a distinct romantic vibe, further enhanced by the nostalgia of a dreamy sunset. It's also a favored venue for special occasions, such as a special Valentine dinner, ensuring a memorable experience. Overall, the Duke of Marlborough delivers a decent romantic escape with no significant complaints from guests.
The Duke Of Marlborough is undeniably lauded for its prime beachfront location, drawing guests with its idyllic setting right on the waterfront. This charming hotel offers spectacular views directly overlooking the bay and harbour, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop. Its proximity to the beach ensures guests can easily enjoy the sand and sea with many reviews highlighting its perfect positioning by the water. The hotel is centrally located in the heart of Russell, making it convenient for exploring historical sites and enjoying nearby shops. Despite a few comments about gloomy beachfront rooms, the overall sentiment emphasizes a fabulous shoreside experience with an enviable beachfront location that's hard to beat.
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Location
Breakfast
However, some guests were less impressed. Issues such as limited selection, overcooked eggs and dry omelettes were noted. There were also comments about the lack of more straightforward, affordable breakfast options and the absence of fresh fruit and juices on the menu. A few reviews mentioned slow service and found the portion sizes insufficient considering the price, while some felt the breakfast buffet lacked variety and became monotonous for extended stays.
Overall, while The Duke Of Marlborough excelled in delivering a satisfying breakfast to many, there is room for improvement in variety, portion sizes and consistency in service.
Dinner
The restaurant is commended not just for the quality of its meals, but also for the excellent service and atmosphere. Guests appreciate the fine dining experience with several mentioning the outstanding service and beautiful decor. Weekend dinner services seem particularly well-received with guests noting the brilliance of their Saturday night meals.
Despite the high praise, there are a few critiques regarding the menu. Some guests found it limited and uninspiring with specific mentions of the lack of vegetarian options. Occasional comments about greasy fish and overall disappointing meals are rare but noted.
Overall, the Duke of Marlborough offers a stellar dining experience that most guests find exceptional, making it a highlight of their stay. The combination of great food, service and ambiance ensures a memorable meal, even if the menu could use some expansion to cater to all dietary preferences.
Rooms
The rooms are described as comfortable, featuring extremely comfortable beds and modern facilities, contributing to an overall sense of luxury. The building itself is charming with décor that adds to the ambiance and character of the accommodations. The value for money is frequently mentioned, suggesting that the quality of the rooms meets or exceeds expectations.
Occasionally, guests do note smaller room sizes and issues with ventilation, but these are seen as minor compared to the stronger, positive feedback. Overall, rooms at The Duke of Marlborough are beautifully decorated, fulfill guests' needs comprehensively and enhance the overall stay with their comfort and style.
Beds
However, opinions on the firmness of the beds are varied. While some guests appreciated the softer beds, others felt they were a bit too soft for their liking and a few even found them bouncy or flat. Despite these mixed reviews, most agree that the rooms themselves are very clean and comfortable, providing a pleasant stay overall.
A standout highlight for many is the large, comfortable beds found in the spacious rooms, often paired with positive remarks about the excellent views. Although there are some mentions of tired or less comfortable mattresses, particularly in superior rooms, the general consensus leans towards a restful and enjoyable sleep experience.
Cleanliness
While the majority of experiences are overwhelmingly positive, a handful of reviews mention minor lapses in housekeeping, such as an occasional unclean bathroom or non-serviced room. However, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Overall, The Duke Of Marlborough stands out as a super clean and comfortable venue with well-appointed rooms and a friendly staff, ensuring a pleasant experience for most guests.
Staff
Though a few isolated comments mention some less friendly interactions, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Waitstaff receive accolades for their excellent service, while the names Max, Nigel and Tracey from reception are specifically noted for being top-notch in their roles. Whether dealing with a smooth check-in process or attentive room service, guests find the staff consistently welcoming and accommodating.
In summary, 'The Duke of Marlborough' offers a blend of historical charm and exceptional service, largely thanks to a dedicated and friendly team that ensures a welcoming experience for every guest.
Wi-Fi
Beach
Parking
Accessible
Historic
Guests are enchanted by the hotel's charming colonial comfort, which is accentuated by an impressive art collection and elaborate historic decor. The quirky art pieces and old photos in the restaurant area are particularly appreciated, adding to the hotel's distinctive character and storytelling. A stay at this hotel is described as magical, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in a place loaded with history.
The location of 'The Duke Of Marlborough' is also highly praised, providing easy access to the best of Russell while being surrounded by stunning historical elements. The hotel’s cozy yet grand ambiance makes it a perfect getaway for those who cherish history and elegance. Visitors love the sense of history that permeates through every corner of the property, wrapped up in a beautifully renovated and well-kept building that maintains its historical charm.
In summary, 'The Duke Of Marlborough' is more than just a place to stay—it's a historical gem that offers a unique hotel experience. Its classic appeal, coupled with a warm and hospitable atmosphere, ensures that every guest leaves with fond memories and a deeper appreciation for its storied past.
Boutique-Style
Romantic
Beachfront
No, The Duke Of Marlborough doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Duke Of Marlborough.
No, The Duke Of Marlborough doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Duke Of Marlborough.
Yes, The Duke Of Marlborough has a gym.
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