One Sixty Five, a boutique inn on Park Row in downtown Brunswick, Maine, rose from the ashes of the former Brunswick Inn. Of course, I’m exaggerating. The 1848 Federal didn’t burn to the ground in March 2021, but smoke and water damage closed the inn. And that allowed innkeeper Eileen Horner to remake the main inn and distinguish it from the Carriage House and The Cottage.
Horner not only updated and rejuvenated the guest and public rooms, but she also opened the inn’s dining room to the public for breakfast (7-9am Mon-Fri., 7-10am Sat.-Sun.). And she opened Pub 165, a comfy spot with a huge fireplace, for late afternoon and evening drinks and light fare (4-8pm daily). Or settle onto the porch, watch people stroll or run by the inn, see what’s happening on the town mall (a.k.a. town green), and rock away any stress.
Prime downtown location
The green, with its mature shade trees and classic bandstand, resembles a Currier & Ives lithograph. A lively farmers’ market attracts shoppers on Friday mornings, an ice rink lures skaters in winter, and food trucks operate on its Maine Street edge.
One Sixty Five‘s location puts the best of downtown within easy walking distance. Attend lectures and sporting events or enjoy entertainment such as the Maine State Music Theatre or the Bowdoin International Music Festival on Bowdoin College’s campus. Or walk to numerous shops and restaurants.
The Main House at One Sixty Five
When I entered the inn, I saw and felt the difference immediately. Horner brightened it, using soothing colors and blending antiques with contemporary and comfy furnishings. Guests here enjoy traditional hospitality, with a warm welcome.
Come for breakfast
The double-front room that was the parlor now serves as the dining room. Decor emphasizes simplicity, with soft beige walls, white trim, hardwood floors, accent rugs, tables with mismatched chairs, and artwork loaned from a local gallery. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the town mall.
The breakfast menu ranges from house-made baked goods to Maine wild blueberry pancakes. Many ingredients are sourced locally. Hint: the challah French toast with warmed maple syrup is divine. (note: breakfast is not included for guests)
Return for nibbles & sips
A small library, decorated in cream and blue, provides a spot for guests to relax. Books, games, and puzzles invite hanging out. And four leather club chairs surrounding a large blue ottoman are hard to resist.
The library also accommodates overflow from the adjacent Pub 165. The huge hearth, dark green walls, wood floors, and leather couch evoke an English pub. In winter, a wood fire makes it all the more inviting.
Another hint: in fine weather, take your drinks and head to one of the white L.L. Bean rockers on the front porch. And perhaps order a cheese and charcuterie plate for pre-dinner nibbles.
Guestrooms and suites
Like the public rooms on the first floor, the four spacious guestrooms and two suites (great for families) on the second and third floors honor the inn’s architectural heritage while adding updated style and amenities.
Beds are dressed in white with Brahms Mount throws draped across their foot. Bedside lamps make reading easy. Most have at least an easy chair or two. And all but one are painted in calming neutral colors. Tiled bathrooms complement the updates.
And tucked into what must have been a closet is a one-person reading nook; the perfect solution for when one wants to read and the other wants to sleep.
I wanted to pick a book from the shelves, wrap the throw around my shoulders, and settle into the armchair for a good read.
The Carriage House & The Cottage at One Sixty Five
Two other lodging options are tucked behind the inn amidst shade trees, manicured lawns, a patio area, and gardens.
The Carriage House, with six guestrooms and a suite, appeals to those who prefer not to interact with others. Here, guests are provided with a key code for self-check-in. And a common room is stocked with self-serve snacks and beverages.
The (pet-friendly) Cottage, with a kitchenette and sleeping loft, is ideal for those who can’t leave their furry pal behind and those staying longer than a few days.
