Simsbury 1820 House

It’s handy for the walking paths, restaurants, banks, and other spots in the center of Simsbury. The Simsbury 1820 house sits a little back from the main town road, and the rooms follow the 1820 style, with marble tile floors. The building does have its downsides: the walls are thin, so sounds carry from upstairs and downstairs, and the beds squeak when you move. There aren’t many outlets, and the TVs use old cable technology. Breakfast goes beyond a basic continental spread, with bagels, wrapped sausage, egg and cheese sandwiches, cereal, pastries, apples, oranges, juices, and a high-tech coffee and tea machine. Toiletries are basic, so bring your own lotion and soap, especially if you don’t want to use the ones provided. Service was fine, kind, and friendly, though they quickly encourage guests to skip housekeeping. They were also managing a large wedding party the weekend I stayed.

Our queen room was comfortable, and the place was quiet and well located. We had drinks at the bar, where the selection was small, but what we ordered was good. The only snag came on our last morning: we went out for breakfast after packing, and housekeeping thought we’d checked out and started cleaning and emptying the room. That was annoying since we had a later flight and wanted to rest before checkout. Still, it was our only issue, and we’d stay again.

Our wedding group had a fantastic time at 1820 Simsbury House. Everyone we dealt with was courteous, helpful, and professional, and they were encouraging about our post-reception celebrating too. We kept the noise to a minimum as best we could ;) We’ll remember the place fondly. Thanks to 1820 and the Soma Grille staff for helping the event go so well. One suggestion about the rooms: some could be arranged differently while keeping 1820 Simsbury’s historic character. In room 305, a regal couch covered a small window. Since I love historic and boutique hotels, I wondered if a backless day bed or futon could work there instead, with the seating area doubling as a window seat and letting in more natural light.

We left without staying because the room looked neglected, and we were afraid of bringing something unseen home. The furniture and rugs were stained, the ceiling was peeling all over, and there was mold on the windows and in the bathroom. Dust bunnies were everywhere. I can’t speak for the other rooms, but I wouldn’t come back or send anyone here.