Stay Where History Meets Hospitality: Welcome to The Sailmaker’s House, a Boutique Hotel in Portsmouth, NH
In the heart of Portsmouth’s vibrant downtown, nestled among the brick-lined streets and historic harbor views, stands a timeless retreat: The Sailmaker’s House. More than just a boutique hotel, it’s a window into Portsmouth’s storied maritime past—thoughtfully restored and beautifully reimagined for the modern traveler.
This charming inn takes its name and inspiration from one of the city’s early craftsmen, John R. Holbrook, a sailmaker whose 1830s gambrel-roofed shop once stood just across from the iconic Moffatt-Ladd House on Market Street. Holbrook crafted sails, awnings, tents, and canvas bags—supplying the needs of seafarers and merchants during the golden age of Portsmouth's shipping industry. His workshop was a cornerstone of local trade and seafaring culture, bustling with purpose and shaped by salt air and craftsmanship.
Over the decades, the property transformed with the city itself, serving as a boarding house and private home before becoming the cherished space it is today. Though the original structure is very much changed, its spirit lives on through the stories we share and the warm welcome we extend to every guest.
At The Sailmaker’s House, history is not just preserved—it’s celebrated. The rooms are uniquely styled to reflect the character of old Portsmouth, blending antique charm with modern comfort. Rooms are filled with gleaming original wide board pine floors, soft-hued walls, glossy white woodwork, and lots of natural light. Local artwork and contemporary furnishings add punch. Tall windows frame views of the historic district, and original architectural details serve as reminders of the building’s deep roots. Room 3 has an original copper medallion on the ceiling; Room 4 on the second floor features a mirror made from a ship’s gear mold—small touches that bring history to life in quiet, surprising ways.
The Sailmaker’s House sits in the Portsmouth’s oldest neighborhood in New Hampshire to be settled by Europeans. The history here reaches back to 1630. Within walking distance are roughly 37 restored historic homes—17 of which are open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into preserved interiors from centuries past. As you explore the narrow streets and timeworn facades of this historic district, you’ll feel the deep roots of a city shaped by the sea and the generations who called it home.
Step outside our door and you’re steps away from Portsmouth’s top attractions: waterfront strolls, local art galleries, buzzing cafes, and the bustling Prescott Park. Come morning, sip coffee in our peaceful garden courtyard or cozy up in a window seat with a good book. This is where stories linger and new ones begin. Whether you're here for a romantic getaway, a weekend of seaside exploration, or simply to slow down and soak in the coastal New England charm, The Sailmaker’s House offers a sense of place you won’t find anywhere else
Come stay where history sleeps. The Sailmaker’s House welcomes you.
