10 Favorite Bucks Area B&Bs

By Beth D’Addono

If you love bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), then you get why it’s so relaxing, restoring and rejuvenating to slumber under somebody else’s down comforter and breakfast around another family’s table.  If you’re new to the genre, consider getting acquainted. B&Bs— and there are more than 100 in the region—offer a personal tuck in, a more intimate experience than you could ever find at the local chain hotel. While not for the person in search of an anonymous experience, B&Bs fill the sleepover niche between high-end hotels and cookie cutter corporate retreats.

In the Bucks County area, where B&Bs have been popular since George Washington first trekked to Valley Forge, B&Bs offer an overnight experience that satisfies quaint, modern and historic tastes. Here is a subjective list of 10 of our favorites, most in Bucks, with a few in Montgomery County. Each one is special; each one has its own personality and quirks. Which is exactly what we love about them.

Doylestown Inn
Just steps from quaint downtown Doylestown, this elegant 11-room inn has welcomed a host of luminaries since it opened in 1902, including Henry Ford, Pearl S. Buck and Oscar Hammerstein. Complimentary continental breakfast, high-speed Internet and concierge service are among the amenities. Posh ground floor bar, complete with an HD flat screen, beer, wine and coffee, was added in 2008. Ask about the fireplace suites.18 W. State Street, Doylestown, (215) 345-6610, www.doylestowninn.com.

The Inn at Bowman’s Hill
Just two-and-a-half miles from artsy New Hope, this romantic inn sits on five acres of bucolic Bucks countryside. Less is more here, where two suites and four rooms offer intimacy in a natural setting. The emphasis is on pampering for two with extras like whirlpool tubs, featherbeds and fireplaces. The breakfast is divine, a multi-course a la carte affair that is positively addictive. Retreat with your coffee or a glass of wine to the orchid conservatory, where time seems to slow down. You won’t want to leave. 518 Lurgan Road, New Hope, (215) 862-8090, www.innatbowmanshill.com.

John Kindig House Bed and Breakfast
Located in Hatfield, Montgomery County but close to all things Bucks, this restored 1864 farmhouse offers a full breakfast, outdoor pool and landscaped gardens. Hosts Ed and Barbara Frazer are warm and welcoming, adding a personal touch to your guest experience. 244 W. Orvilla Road, Hatfield, (215) 361-3200, www.johnkindighouse.com.

The Inn at Phillip’s Mill
Located just one-and-a-half miles north of downtown New Hope, this inn occupies an ivy-covered 18th century stone barn. Depending on the season, guests can dine on French specialties (Coquilles Saint Jacques, anyone?) in the flower-filled patio or next to a crackling fire. Art lovers take note: the Bucks County Impressionists started at Phillips Mill, and there is a Juried Art Show every fall. 2590 River Road, New Hope, (215) 862-2984, www.theinnatphillipsmill.com.

Joseph Ambler Inn
Situated on an expanse of land originally owned by William Penn, this establishment has grown from a 12-room B&B to a 52-room luxury inn, complete with a romantic gourmet dining experience. Executive chef Pedro Lugo and sommelier Tegwen Ostroff create memorable food and wine pairings. The 12 acres of rolling hillside make it a popular spot for weddings and events. Ask for a room with a fireplace and a spa tub if you’re more interested in staying in than dining out. 1005 Horsham Road, North Wales, (215) 362-7500, www.josephamblerinn.com.

Highland Farm Bed & Breakfast
Next time you hum along to “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” you can thank Highland Farm B&B. That’s because Oscar Hammerstein was inspired to write this standard, among others, while sitting on the wrap around porch of his then estate.  Now an inviting B&B, Highland Farm offers elegant guest rooms and gourmet breakfast fare. Musically inclined visitors can tickle the ivories on the Pranberry grand piano, or channel Mr. Hammerstein while relaxing in the grand living room where he entertained the likes of James Michener, Richard Rodgers and Stephen Sondheim. 70 East Road, Doylestown, (215) 345-6767, www.highlandfarmbb.com.

Plumsteadville Inn
Owners John and Lisa DiStefano are the gracious hosts at this historic circa 1751 inn filled with French provincial antiques along with modern comforts. While the setting is colonial, the comforts are modern, including a full-service restaurant and bar, along with live entertainment. Route 611 & Stump Road, Plumsteadville, (215) 766-7500, www.theplumsteadvilleinn.com.

1870 Wedgwood Inn of New Hope
This striking Wedgwood-blue-colored Victorian “Painted Lady” sits just steps from New Hope and the walking bridge to Lambertville. Named after the Englishman Josiah Wedgwood who invented the famous Wedgwood blue bone china, the Inn is a comfy getaway where guests can enjoy home-baked goodies, daily tea, breakfast in bed or on the porch and free Wi-Fi. The 60-mile Canal Towpath, ideal for biking and walking, is just a quarter mile from the inn. Innkeepers Carl, Nadine and Jessica Glassman have been getting it right for almost 27 years! 111 W. Bridge Street, New Hope, (215) 862-2570, www.wedgwoodinn.com.

Golden Plough Inn
Ok, so this well-appointed retreat is more a hotel than a B&B. But the 70 rooms and suites are cozy and filled with local crafts, the staff hospitable and we love being in the middle of Peddler’s Village—a destination offering 70 specialty shops and six restaurants, including the newest spot, Sweet Lorraine’s. Room amenities include gas fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Routes 202 & Street Road, Lahaska, (215) 794-4004, www.peddlersvillage.com.

Twin Turrets Inn
If you’re looking to explore attractions points due west, including Valley Forge, King of Prussia (there’s a big mall there in case you didn’t know) and West Chester, consider booking a room at this charming 10-room inn, originally the 1860 estate of Horace K. Boyer, for whom the town is named. Restored to its full Victorian charm, Twin Turrets includes daily breakfast, thick robes for snuggling and a lovely garden patio area perfect for reading and relaxing. 11 E. Philadelphia Avenue, Boyertown, (610) 367-4513, www.twinturrets.com.

Bucks Living’s Travel Editor Beth D’Addono lives in Belmont Hills.