Like many small towns along the Inner Banks, Edenton knows how to preserve and showcase its rich southern history, and the Parsonage Inn is an exceptional example of this policy in practice. Visitors on the hunt for cool historic accommodations with a relaxing and hospitable atmosphere will fall in love with this cozy and critically acclaimed bed and breakfast that has a unique little legacy all its own. Culturally relevant and a famous local landmark, the Parsonage Inn is a unique destination for Edenton weekenders who want to experience every aspect of this town's distinct history first hand.
The Parsonage Inn is located in the heart of the downtown region, just a couple short blocks away from the Barker House, Colonial Park, and a number of other famed waterfront attractions. Despite this proximity to sites, trolley tours, shops and restaurants, the locale of the Parsonage Inn has a quiet, residential feel, with surrounding blocks populated with historic homes and small residences, making it an easy destination for a peaceful, quiet sleep that's still close to the action.
The now Bed and Breakfast was originally built in 1889 as a new parsonage for the local Baptist congregation, and the Italianate-Victorian structure served as the Edenton Baptist's Parsonage for nearly 70 years, before finally closing its doors in 1958.
The historic structure was somewhat forgotten outside the confines of the small town until a new owner came along, Giuliano Giannone, who recognized the potential of both the ample space of the old building itself, as well as its fantastic location. Giannone already had significant knowledge about the Edenton B&B scene as a former co-owner of The Pack House B&B Inn in Edenton, and was a winner of the National 2011 Innkeeper of the Year award, but the old Parsonage House required a lot of work to bring it up to elite (and modern) B&B standards.
A lengthy renovation and restoration ensued, which included the addition of spas and Jacuzzis, screened porches, and a state-of-the-art kitchen, however the heart of the structure was well preserved. Gingerbread Victorian touches were refurbished or replaced, the floating staircase was restored, and the exterior and interior were updated with fresh coasts of paint, cozy furnishings, and a number of other "upgrades" to make the old structure truly shine.
The Inn subsequently opened in early 2013 to rave reviews, and quickly began to top local and regional lists of best places to stay in the Inner Banks.
The experience at the Parsonage Inn is truly relaxing and engaging, and visitors will find themselves completely at ease while being surrounded by well over a hundred years of history. The front porch and parlor are perfect hideaways for enjoying a good book or a glass of wine, while the backyard with a small koi pond and lush garden is a secretive oasis in its own right.
The breakfasts at the inn, overseen by Giuliano himself, (a professionally trained chef at The Culinary Institute of America), are simply out of this world. While selections vary daily, guests can expect an assortment of fresh fruit, muffins or toast, Eggs Benedict, Gourmet Soufflés,Stuffed French Toast, Belgian Waffles, Blueberry Pancakes, or even Frittatas, just to name a few of the menu staples. Big and undeniably filling, guests can expect to have a full belly to start their day exploring the sights and sounds of downtown Edenton.
There are just four rooms in the small inn, all well-appointed with TVs, a queen bed or more, and gorgeous décor that is both classic and completely inviting. Rates are surprisingly reasonable for a B&B of this caliber, and are generally in the $99 - $149 range, depending on both the season and the day, (i.e., weekend or mid-week.) Specials are also frequently offered, as well as unique "packages" that can easily turn a weekend getaway into a romantic adventure. For more information on upcoming specials or little "extras" that are available, potential patrons can visit the inn's website at http://www.theparsonageinn.com/edenton-nc-lodging-specials.html.
All rooms include a full, chef-prepared breakfast, an afternoon wine reception, and a 24-hour guest kitchen that is well stocked with a variety of snacks and munchies for any hour of the day or night. Best of all, because of the inn's fantastic locale, a historic downtown walking tour can easily begin the moment that guests step out the front door.
Reservations are generally required and can be made online at http://www.webervations.com/magic-scripts/resbook.asp?memberid=theparsonage1nn or by calling the inn directly at 252-482-8355. Because of the inn's stellar reviews and wide regional and state-wide reception after opening, it's best to make reservations as early as possible. The inn combines the novelty of staying in a restored Baptists parsonage with all the luxuries of a four star B&B, and as a result, the limited number of rooms do tend to fill up quickly.
A gorgeous retreat that's in the heart of history-rich Edenton, the Parsonage Inn is just one small example of how this quiet community honors its distinctively rich past. A new favorite in the already acclaimed local B&B scene, the Parsonage Inn is a great fit for anyone looking for a historic, elite, and altogether relaxing little getaway in this almost-coastal town.