North America • United States • South Carolina • Beaufort • Hotel Review
Cuthbert House: Southern Grandeur in Beaufort, South Carolina
Ten distinctive rooms, waterfront views, and a nightly happy hour bring a warm welcome to this historic Lowcountry inn.
By Lulu Chang
Why it works
Just 90 minutes outside of bustling Charleston, South Carolina, lies a small town by the name of Beaufort. Be warned, it’s pronounced Bew-fort; say “Bow-fort,” and folks will know immediately that you’re not from these parts (especially since “Bow-fort” is how the Beaufort in North Carolina is pronounced). But even if you commit this cardinal sin, the unfailing southern hospitality of this classic low country town won’t flinch—especially at the stunningly renovated Cuthbert House.
A Historic Waterfront Retreat
The very picture of southern grandeur, Cuthbert House’s waterfront address on Bay Street, embodies serenity. Originally built in 1790, the gleaming mansion was known for its social gatherings before it became a Union Army-occupied locale during the Civil War. In the 1880s, it was renovated in the Victorian style, and nearly a century later, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Arrival
This year, the mansion underwent its latest renovation and has recently reopened to great fanfare (and for good reason). A white picket fence encloses the large front yard, where a set of steps leads guests to the hotel’s charming entrance. Walking into Cuthbert feels like walking into your own home; a sitting area is the first room that guests see, while a reception desk is further down the hallway.
Rooms & Design
Once you’re checked in, head upstairs to one of 10 uniquely appointed guest rooms, where a digital key system grants access using the last four digits of your cell phone number. Rooms are at once homey and luxurious, with large, open layouts and soaring ceilings. Pastel colors reflect both the natural landscape and waterfront views of the low country, while comfortable easy chairs and soft mattresses welcome weary travelers.
Hardwood floors and exposed brick fireplaces have all been carefully restored so that you can enjoy the true splendor of the centuries-old building. On the other hand, large bathrooms have been recently upgraded, featuring spacious showers and classic finishes of marble and chrome.
The Cypress Bar
Once you’re properly refreshed, head downstairs to any one of the stunning common areas of the Cuthbert House, including a cozy library lounge. But our personal favorite is undoubtedly the newly added cypress bar, a semi-circular bar made of reclaimed cypress wood. It’s at this bar that you can enjoy a nightly happy hour featuring complimentary beer and wine, as well as gourmet bites from the chef’s kitchen.
Breakfast & Hospitality
If you’re impressed by happy hour bites, you’ll be even more thrilled by the complimentary daily bayside breakfast served in the dining room and truly sunny sunroom. In addition to an ever-changing main entree (from biscuits and gravy to blueberry bramble), the generous breakfast also includes yogurt, pastries, and fresh fruit. Beverages include gourmet French Press coffee from local Beaufort shop Beloved Coffee Roasters and locally sourced teas, as well as mimosas.
While the rooms, amenities, and food and beverage options are spectacular in and of themselves, Cuthbert House is made all the more special by a truly incredible staff. So whether you’re visiting Beaufort for a day, a week, or considering a full move down south, a stay at Cuthbert House is a must.
Fast Facts
Location: Beaufort, South Carolina
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: It’s Southern hospitality dialed up to the max.
Food + Drink: Our favorite thing about the food and drink? It’s largely free. We love the nightly happy hour and included breakfast
Amenities: 24/7 Concierge; Rental bikes; Daily happy hour; Breakfast
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The nightly happy hour—where you can mix and mingle with other guests and chat with fabulous staff like Robert and Karen—is a must.
5 Nearby Attractions: Robert Smalls House, Marshlands, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, The Parish Church of St Helena
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: Grab a coffee to go and wander through one of downtown Beaufort’s many art galleries. (P.S. — the entire downtown is a National Historic Landmark.)
Pricing (at original publication): Rooms start at $250/night
Closest Airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
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