The Bow Hotel

Hotel in Portsmouth, steps from Market Square

Choose dates to view prices

Where to?

Dates

October 2025

November 2025

King Studio Suite | Premium bedding, memory foam beds, desk, iron/ironing board

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Excellent

Popular amenities

Air conditioning
Free WiFi

Explore the area

121 Bow Street, Portsmouth, NH, 03801

Place, Market Square
‪1 min walk‬
Place, Strawbery Banke Museum
‪3 min walk‬
Place, The Music Hall
‪5 min walk‬
Airport, Portsmouth, NH (PSM-Portsmouth Intl.)
‪8 min drive‬

Room options

Premium bedding, memory foam beds, desk, iron/ironing board

Petite Queen

Wonderful

Sleeps 2
1 Queen Bed

Gallery Queen

Excellent

Sleeps 2
1 Queen Bed

King Studio Suite

Very good

Sleeps 4
1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Gallery King

Excellent

Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Portsmouth

Located in Downtown, The Bow Hotel is next to popular attractions like Market Square and Warner House. This 10-room, 4-star hotel welcomes guests with conveniences like free in-room WiFi, concierge services, and express check-in.

What's nearby

Market Square - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
Prescott Park - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
Strawbery Banke Museum - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
The Music Hall - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
Water Country - 8 min drive - 3.8 miles

Getting around

Dover Transportation Center - 18 min drive
Portsmouth, NH (PSM-Portsmouth Intl.) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

‪Hearth Food Garden - ‬4 min walk
‪The River House Restaurant - ‬2 min walk
‪Surf Restaurant - ‬2 min walk
‪Gas Light Pizza Pub - ‬3 min walk
‪Daniel Street Tavern - ‬2 min walk

About this property

The Bow Hotel

Hotel in Portsmouth, steps from Market Square

The Bow Hotel features free WiFi in public areas and express check-in. Limited parking is available. Staff members are on hand to provide concierge services and luggage storage.

Guests can expect free WiFi and 32-inch flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and designer toiletries, and memory foam beds with premium bedding ensure a restful night. Ironing boards and desks are also standard. Housekeeping is available on request.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Breakfast included
Pet friendly
Parking included
Free WiFi

$188 nightly

Nov 3 - Nov 4

Total with taxes and fees

Property amenities

Internet

Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Offsite parking available (USD 35 per night)
Limited onsite parking (max 1 space per unit)

Things to do

Bicycle rentals

Conveniences

Luggage storage
Virtual front desk

Guest services

Concierge services
Housekeeping (on request)

Accessibility

If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
15 steps to reach entrance
Upper floors accessible by stairs only

Built in 1880
Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

Hypo-allergenic bedding
Memory foam mattress
Premium bedding

Bathroom

Bathrobes
Designer toiletries
Hair dryer
Private bathroom
Shower/bathtub combination
Towels provided

Entertainment

32-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels

Air conditioning
Desk
Heating (climate-controlled)
Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime

Express check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM

Late check-out subject to availability

A late check-out fee will be charged

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property

Guests will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; access will be through a private entrance

A virtual front desk provides assistance to guests

Access methods

Access code, private entrance

Pets

This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

Nearby parking fee: USD 35 per night (49 ft away)
Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash

Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit

Check-in: 4:00 PM—-anytime
Check-out: 11 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Driving? This property offers limited parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
There are no elevators.
No cribs or infant beds are available.
No rollaway or extra beds are available.
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Ale House Inn Portsmouth

Ale House Inn

Ale House Portsmouth

Ale House Hotel Portsmouth

Ale House Inn

The Bow Hotel Hotel

The Bow Hotel Portsmouth

The Bow Hotel Hotel Portsmouth

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of The Bow Hotel?

This hotel is situated in Downtown, just steps from Market Square and Prescott Park, and within a short walk of Strawbery Banke Museum. You'll also find Portsmouth Harbor Trail and The Music Hall less than a mile away.

How much does it cost to stay at The Bow Hotel?

As of Oct 4, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Bow Hotel on Nov 3, 2025 start from $153.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available on site at The Bow Hotel?

Yes, though there is a max of 1 space per unit.

Does The Bow Hotel include a casino?

No, The Bow Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Bow Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at The Bow Hotel?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like a memory foam mattress and bathrobes as well as concierge services.

Does The Bow Hotel have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does The Bow Hotel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, The Bow Hotel doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will The Bow Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at The Bow Hotel.

Are there connecting rooms at The Bow Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to The Bow Hotel?

The closest major airport to The Bow Hotel is Portsmouth, NH (PSM-Portsmouth Intl.), which is 6.2 mi away (14 minutes by car). Another top airport is Sanford, ME (SFM-Sanford Seacoast Regional), which is located 29 mi away (35-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The Bow Hotel?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at The Bow Hotel.

The Bow Hotel Reviews

8.6

Excellent

9.2/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.6/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10 Excellent

Johnathan

Traveled with partner

Jul 29, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

My wife and I loved our stay here at the Bow. We enjoyed the location and its proximity to all the shopping and restaurants near by. The room is spacious with beautiful decor. The only thing to be aware of is that noise travels very easily in this establishment, other than that I would recommend staying here.

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Kenneth

Jul 1, 2025

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Jun 29, 2025

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Tiffany

Traveled with partner

Jun 28, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

The Bow is probably not for everyone, but we had a good experience. There is no "front desk" or staff on site. However, they are quick to answer the phone or communicate via text if you have questions. There is no physical key, you need to download the Open Key app to use. There is an elevator inside the property, but you must go up approximately 12 steps to get into the building from outside. Parking is right across the street, it's a little clunky to figure out, but there is one spot reserved for each room, it didn't seem they really verified who was parked where. The rooms were nice and as shown, no extras. The location is very walkable to the waterfront area of Portsmouth. Because everything is done via email and text there may be some people who would not care for it, however for us it was fine.I would stay here again.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

Barbara

Jun 26, 2025

Disliked: Amenities

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bridget

Jun 23, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Within walking distance to shops and dining. Easy check in and out.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Eamon

Jun 23, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

We thought the room was very clean and comfortable , and loved that we could walk to the places we wanted to visit

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joel M Cutler

Jun 22, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

It was great will go again

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Georg

Jun 18, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Kathleen

Traveled with family

Jun 18, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Disliked: Staff & service

The check in ordeal was terrible. Supposed to do everything online but they didn’t send all the information. Had to call about parking. They didn’t tell us the code to get into the building. Once we figured out how to get in there was a nice man at the desk to help us but it was a very frustrating check in. The rooms were ok. Clean but not very user friendly. I will not be going back.

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Jonathan

Jun 17, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort

The entrance process was very poorly done. Had to wait for another couple, who had already checked in, to let us into the building. Room's windows were oddly positioned. Nothing left out for breakfas

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Traveled with partner

Jun 16, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Awesome DIY experience here! Great location! Very cool room, but on the smaller side. Loved the key on my phone app!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda

Jun 14, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Quick overnight triip to see Portsmouth and meet family for dinner. Location for exploring downtown Portsmouth on foot is perfect.

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Kelly

Jun 10, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Riley S

Jun 9, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Monica

Jun 8, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

This is a nice boutique hotel that has been beautifully renovated and is close to everything. You can tell that the new management has put a lot of care into the place and the experience. The check-in/check-out is seamless. But if you are looking for a traditional hotel experience - which I was not - this isn't for you. Don't expect concierge service or traditional keys/TV. Overall, a nice experience. I would recommend they insulate the doors more. At times, there's a lot of sound from the hallway, but it didn't ruin the trip.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Mary

Traveled with group, Traveled with family

Jun 1, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

The non contact check in did not work well for us. Communication was problematic. Check in time was 4pm. We did receive a check in code for the lobby. Explaining we would recieve information about room entry when the room was ready. We arrived rushed at 4:30 and had not received room entry information. We parked with no time to deal with room entry situation. The information arrived at 8:30pm. The room was beautifully appointed. Bed and linens comfortable. We did not find a blanket for the sofa couch. After running the shower for more than an adequate amount of time. It was lukewarm at best. No coffee machine in the room. The one provided in the foyer was broken. It's a shame. Before changing the Ale House to the Bow house and it's lovely renovation. It was our go to place for lodging. Hopefully communication will follow this review with remediation. So I do not have to look elsewhere.

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Brianna

May 31, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Room was great and you can tell it was newly furnished or they kept up with it well. Bed was very comfortable. Walls were paper thin and you could hear everything from every room. Check in was a bit frustrating. I requested an early check in which I know isn't guaranteed but was told I would get a text from the hotel when the room was ready. After 4pm, check in time, I still never received a text or email. Called the number at 4:15pm. They were friendly and then sent the text but said if the code doesnt work on the app, there is a lockbox with all physical keys and gave me the code. I clarified that all the keys were in there and that there wasn't a separate lockbox for each room and they confirmed. To which I then said I would grab the physical key rather than the app so no one else had access to my room since all the keys can be grabbed my anyone with the code. The woman said it's never been an issue before but I didn't feel comfortable chancing it. I also texted and emailed about parking the day before arriving and the hotel never wrote back. I decided to street parking which was significantly cheaper than their $35/ night lot. Though the hotel is in a perfect location and room was cozy, very underwhelmed by the check in experience and lack of communication and safety.

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Thomas

May 30, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Samuel

Traveled with group

May 28, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Good spot to stay . A little hiccup with the ownership and name change. It all worked out.

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

George

Traveled with family

May 27, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Convenient

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Tina

Traveled with partner

Apr 3, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Location is great, walkable To everything. Parking is available but process is a little clunky. Otherwise everything was great.

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Mar 31, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Adam

Mar 30, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Disliked: Staff & service

No staff(had to call parent property to be helped) dated (rooms need to be updated). Property was lacking amenities.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Shannon

Traveled with partner

Mar 25, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Room was comfortable and clean though it was in need of upkeep. Carpet was well worn, outlet plate missing and obvious leak damage in bathroom ceiling. Hotel is conveniently located and free nitro coffee fantastic. I generally prefer these types of boutique hotels for short stays and despite the flaws I would stay here again.

Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025