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One of the best bed and breakfasts in Stratford. Ontario Ontario,
as recommended by Janette Higgins.
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Buckingham House Bed and Breakfast
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Ted Hales
67 Douro Street
Stratford, Ontario
Canada, N5A 3R2
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| Phone: 519-273-1920 |
| Toll Free:877-773-1920 |
| Art and book lovers will feel right at home here. |
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Stratford. Ontario, Ontario map
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Review by Janette Higgins
author of The Best Places to B&B in Ontario: A Selective Guide
Six editions of the book were published to critical and popular acclaim. Janette now publishes her B&B
reviews and holiday reports online.
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Note 1 to reader: Every Ontario bed and breakfast receives my consideration. I travel incognito, pay where I stay and write reviews of the top 5%. Here is one I recommend. Janette Higgins
It you appreciate art, antiques, literature and, of course, theatre, you’ll find a kindred spirit at Stratford’s Buckingham House Bed and Breakfast. Host Ted Hales has collected antiques for years and his art collection ranges from the contemporary through early Canadian. Books are in much evidence and clearly a passion. Ted also helps with backstage theatre tours as a Festival volunteer and sees many of the plays on the Stratford roster.
As for Ted’s 1880s-built house, he has recently added a beautiful Italianate porch in keeping with the home's style, and the town of Stratford has seen fit to give it historical designation. You'll just have to imagine the porch because it was added after I had my artist do the above sketch. Upon entering you’ll see the antique-furnished guest parlour to your right. I was particularly taken with the wide wallpaper border – it struck me as closer to true Victorian than most modern interpretations. At the top of the stairs you'll find the cosy guest lounge and a tucked-away servery with bar fridge and all the makings for refreshments. From here you can access a small balcony and outside stairs leading directly to the garden with its seating area under a pergola which bed and breakfast guests are welcome to use.
The three bed and breakfast guestrooms have hardwood floors with area rugs and all are attractive. The largest is the dramatic crimson-red William Room which extends across the front of the house. It has a queen bed, seating area with chair and lounger, and three large windows. Ted has plans to change the en suite bathroom set-up but here’s how it works for now. The bathtub with shower is in the room but cleverly disguised by a heavy curtain which fits in seamlessly with the overall décor. The sink is in the room and well positioned so it doesn’t stand out. The toilet is in a tiny closet.
At the back of the house, The Edward Room twin beds, which can be converted to king on request. Again three windows and this time a neat 3-piece bathroom tucked around a corner in an alcove. The green walls and white trim lend a dramatic backdrop for some richly hued photographic art in black frames. Nearby, the queen-bedded Elizabeth Room is painted a pretty sage green. Its large window faces east and the 4-piece bathroom is directly across a small hall. When I stayed it featured a beautiful Chinese silk duvet though that may change by the time you stay since Ted tells me he is freshening things up with new bedspreads in all the rooms. br>
As for breakfast Ted does it right. First off, I loved the ambiance of the dining room; warm and friendly, yet elegant, with dark woods and a brass Williamsburg-style chandelier. Plus he served up some memorable dishes. I lapped up the fresh peaches complemented with a lime and honey sauce with just a touch of mace. Second helpings on that one. He provided a home-baked pumpkin bread (the way to my heart) and a delicious baked egg and cheese ramekin dish. Altogether satisfying and much appreciated.
Note 2 to reader: I appreciate your support of the continuation of my research by letting Ted know you read my consumer review of his bed and breakfast. Many thanks! Janette Higgins
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Reviews of Janette Higgins'
favourite places beyond Ontario
More of Janette Higgins' reviews
of Ontario's best bed and breakfasts
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Buckingham House Bed and Breakfast, Stratford. Ontario, Ontario
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| Tell your hosts Janette Higgins sent you! |
| E-mail: |
Click Here |
| Website: |
http://www.buckinghamhouse.ca |
| Best to call: |
late morning |
| Languages: |
English |
| Season: |
All Year |
| CDN $ Rates: |
S or D $125-135 plus 5% GST tax |
Currency converter
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| Cards: |
VISA/MC/AMEX |
| Restrictions: |
children 12 and older welcome; smoking outside only; no guests' pets |
| Facilities: |
3 guest bedrooms: 1 queen-size with en suite bath with shower/tub; 1 queen-size with private bath with shower/tub; 1 twin/king with en suite bath with shower stall; upstairs sitting room and downstairs parlour for guests; balcony and stairs to garden; central air; wireless internet access |
| Parking: |
for 4 cars in driveway; jockeying may be required |
| Breakfast: |
Full |
| In Residence: |
no pets in residence |
| Location: |
Stratford is 1 hour 45 minutes southwest of Toronto. Buckingham House Bed and Breakfast is 4 blocks south of the main street and 1 block to one of the theatres |
| Directions: |
From Stratford's main street (Hwy 7/8) turn south on any downtown street and go 4 blocks to Douro. |
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