Briar Barn Inn

We loved spending time in the library and silo, and the hallway art was fun to look at. Breakfast before checkout was phenomenal, and the coffee maker is really cool. The restaurant was closed for a wedding during our stay, so we missed out on trying it. Our bedroom and bathroom were very clean, and the fireplace was excellent. The room itself was just okay, though. There was a brown splatter stain on the shower walls that wouldn’t wash off, and the pulls that open the TV were only partly secured, with one screw missing and the others loose. I mentioned a broken towel holder at the front desk, but it didn’t bother us since we’re used to fixing little things at home. The main thing to watch is the mini fridge: the beverages had 2024 born-on dates. We’d still definitely stay at the inn again.

The location is quiet and handy for trips to Newburyport, Plum Island, and the beaches, and there’s a restaurant, pool, and spa right on site. We visit Select Registry B&Bs a few times a year, and Briar Barn Inn is our most comfortable place to stay. We’ve been here in every season and the rooms have always been clean, with unique art, a fireplace, sitting chairs, and a desk for getting work done. I especially enjoy the many windows that bring in natural light while still keeping things private, often with views toward the scenic woods. Every staff member has been incredibly friendly and helpful. Thoughtful extras like cappuccino machines, fresh fruit, and snacks in the morning and evening make the stay even better.

Dinner at Grove was a highlight: the seasonal, creative food was beautifully presented but still felt warm and approachable. The spa added a calm, relaxing touch that made the overnight feel like a proper reset. Briar Barn Inn made for a wonderful New England getaway. The rooms are beautiful, cozy, and thoughtfully designed, with spotless, well cared for details and a bed I didn’t want to leave. Welcoming common spaces and a peaceful atmosphere made it easy to unplug. For an easy escape with lovely rooms, great food, and a little pampering, it was a five star experience all around.

Our guests kept telling us how beautiful the venue was, how good the food was, and how smoothly the day flowed. One even called it “the best wedding I’ve ever been to!” We got married at The Grove in October 2025, and it was the wedding we’d dreamed of. Alyssa, our day-of coordinator, was a gem. I was anxious in the lead-up, and she was so kind and helped ease my worries. On the day, everything ran smoothly. My husband and I didn’t have to lift a finger or think about anything; she made sure we ate and had some time to ourselves, which we really needed. The team handled our decor gently and coordinated things well. The venue and inn were thoughtful too, leaving champagne and cookies in our room. When we toured venues, they worked with us to find a time and answered our questions quickly. The planning portal was handy for keeping the guest list, food choices, and floor plan together, though the website felt a little outdated and was sometimes annoying. If we got married again, we’d easily choose The Grove.