White Swan Inn

The staff were very pleasant, and we loved being able to open the window for fresh air. Our room and the breakfast room were lovely, and there was a good selection at breakfast, though I wish there had been more gluten-free options. We still found plenty to eat. We walked to Grace Cathedral and had lunch at the gorgeous Fairmont Hotel afterward. The location near Union Square was ideal, though the area is only slowly recovering. I stayed here decades ago and was pleasantly surprised that the two neighboring bed and breakfasts are still so well maintained and reasonably priced for a big city.

The room, linens, fireplace, and little details felt far more luxurious than I expected at this price. The breakfast was filling even for someone who doesn't like sweet food, and the evening wine and other treats felt generous and thoughtful. I have no complaints and would go back in a heartbeat. It's also the least expensive lovely option I've found in San Francisco. A couple of practical notes: this is an old building, so accessibility isn't perfect. The genuine early Otis elevator was a little difficult to manage with my crutches, and I wouldn't use it with a wheelchair. The British theme is mostly the name and flag outside, plus the missing bathroom shelf. There are tea bags and half-and-half pods, except at breakfast. Street parking can be impossible, and overnight valet costs almost as much as the room.

It's a nice hotel, just not really my thing. I like a dark room, and there weren't curtains to keep out the sunlight. I also get hot easily, and there was no A/C, though the staff brought me a fan, which I appreciated. The TV seemed old, not ancient, but mine barely worked. Good thing I usually bring my own HDMI cable. I had doubts after seeing the online photos, but the strong reviews convinced me to try it. I'd recommend it to someone who enjoys old or vintage places.

We stayed in January and were comfortable, especially with the fireplace, though I can't say how the room would feel on a hot autumn day. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, and the location was great. Staff were lovely, and the continental breakfast and evening wine and nibbles were nice touches. Great value for San Francisco.