Melville House

The location is great, and the building has history, but that’s about all we liked. Sean? was a very friendly young man who explained things when we arrived. The woman in the office was extremely unfriendly to both him and us, to the point that it felt like workplace bullying. Completely unprofessional. Our room didn’t match the pictures at all. It was a different room, without the cozy feel the photos suggested. The bathroom felt grimy, and the room was so cold we slept in beanies and long-sleeved sweatshirts over our pajamas. The house’s front door was always open, and our room had only a regular key and lock for security. The common areas were grim. We were glad to leave.

The location of the Melville Inn, Newport made a good first impression, and the young woman who checked us in was very personable. I’ll call her Ostella, though I’m sure I’m getting her name wrong. The building dates to the 1700s and needs repairs and updating. Our room was tiny, with the bed taking up most of the floor, and the bathroom felt dated, with a sink about the size of a candy dish. There was only a mirror in the bathroom. Its outlet didn’t work, though that kind of thing can happen anywhere. Before we even saw the room, we were offered an upgrade to a larger one, which felt like a hint. Breakfast was supposed to be continental, but the coffee dispenser was empty and nobody came to refill it, so I went without. The selection was very limited compared with the varied, delicious spreads at other Newport inns. I’d give this place two stars.

We got in late for breakfast because we had to leave early, but it smelled great. The bed was comfortable, and the bathroom was nice. We booked at short notice during the annual boat show, when hardly any rooms were left. Rick, the manager, said we were his first guests from Oklahoma and upgraded our room. When our new car had a battery problem the next morning, he helped us out. He really does everything.

Rick and his team were helpful throughout our Fourth of July weekend at the Melville house. Parking is a little tight, but you’re right in the heart of Newport, in an unbelievable location. I’d highly recommend it to anyone wanting to stay in town.