The Bow Hotel

4.0 star property
Hotel in Portsmouth, steps from Market Square

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Bow Hotel

Beach
King Studio Suite | Premium bedding, memory foam beds, desk, iron/ironing board
Interior entrance
City view from property
Interior

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
121 Bow Street, Portsmouth, NH, 03801
  • Market Square
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Strawbery Banke Museum
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • The Music Hall
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Portsmouth, NH (PSM-Portsmouth Intl.)
    ‪8 min drive‬

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Room options

Gallery Queen

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Petite Queen

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Gallery King

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

King Studio Suite

  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

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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
  • Portsmouth Brewery - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • The Music Hall - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Hearth Food Garden - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪River House - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 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
A local mainstay since 1880, The Bow Hotel offers free WiFi in public areas, express check-in, and express check-out. Limited parking is available. Front-desk staff can assist with 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.

Languages

English

Similar properties

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

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

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

More

  • 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

More

  • 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
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Guests will receive an email 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; front desk staffed during limited hours

Access methods

Access code, front desk (limited hours)

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
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking in and out are easy with express services. 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 Seacoast Repertory Theatre, and within a short walk of Prescott Park. You'll also find Portsmouth Brewery and Strawbery Banke Museum less than a mile away.

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

As of May 31, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Bow Hotel on Jun 10, 2025 start from $274.0, 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 there parking available 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.

Is The Bow Hotel good for couples?

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

Are there hot tubs at The Bow Hotel?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

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 at The Bow Hotel?

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

The Bow Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 244 out of 422 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 111 out of 422 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 45 out of 422 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 10 out of 422 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 12 out of 422 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Kevin

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very good and convenient place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

4/10 Poor

Robert

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Dirty and not well maintained
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Eh

Reserved a King bed and got a queen. Room was quite small. Bed was poorly made. Just because you asked for my opinion.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jennifer

I did not ever get to check in to the hotel and had to be moved. Not happy!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tomas

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Colleen

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Ale House was lovely! We had a nice room and the staff member working was very helpful with recommendations. I wish we had another night or two.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amanda

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stay was great and location was perfect!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

6/10 Okay

Kristi

Traveled with family
I know check out time is at 11. I was back at 11 sharp to find my room bring cleaned and told that check out is at 11. So this person was in my room before the designated time and was very rude.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Wonderful service, big clean room with comfy bed and lovely view, great downtown location
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We will definitely stay here again. Very convenient location to our usual dining favorites. Simple but nicely done and comfortable and priced reasonably for a night out.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Roger

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great spot. Love the uniqueness. Great communication w easy check in. Loved the room, the location, and the cool common spaces and amenities.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Andrew

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The rooms are nice, and the location is good. There's no one at the desk past 6-ish. It took me three phones and a couple of texts to figure out the keys to the room, but it was a minor inconvenience. I will definitely stay here again when I get back to Portsmouth.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

2/10 Terrible

Maryellen

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wouldn’t ever stay here again yikes
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

matthew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Ok hotel, great location

The convenient location was the best part of this hotel.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I had a great stay! Really cool place. Entire check-in process was very laidback. They even had a plugin fan in room if you are a person that needs noise for a restful sleep like myself.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

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

Room was great

The room was larger than it appeared in pictures. Bed was comfortable and it was such a cool spot to stay. Walking distance from downtown life. Parking was a nightmare. They charge you for parking which I find absurd when you’re paying to stay there. Parking should be included in the cost of your stay. Instructions in the email said you could park at the church on Saturday nights as long as you move before 7 a.m. and we left at 6:45. Word of advice just pay their $35 parking fee or you’ll wind up with a $68 parking ticket like we did.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig, Twentynine Palms

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Quaint lodging in a superb location. Friendly staff, wonderful experience.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

2/10 Terrible

Samuel F, Syracuse

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
This is a remote staff and remote entry facility. Our room was quite small, but others are larger. The price is a bit high for a place with very little amenities. Excellent location in Portsmouth! Fantastic live theater in the basement of the building.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

Kathleen

Liked: Cleanliness
The price was a little high, especially for the size of the room and lack of amenities, and we had to pay extra for parking. The bed was just a mattress on slats, and was therefore rather uncomfortable, although there were plenty of pillows. The valve in the shower wasn't working well, so most of the water went straight down the drain rather than through the showerhead. Cannot beat the convenience of the location, however, as we were there for a show at Seacoast Rep. It was also within very easy walking distance of our dinner reservation.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Christine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Ronald

Business traveler
Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Jody

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024