
When you picture staying at a bed and breakfast, you probably imagine clean sheets, a home-cooked meal, and a cozy room that feels much better than a standard hotel experience. But one detail you might be overlooking when booking is a simple one: the bathroom situation. Not every bed and breakfast is the same, and while some offer ensuite bathrooms attached directly to your room, others have private hall or communal bathrooms shared among multiple guests. What’s the difference between these two options? Here’s a closer look.
What Exactly Is an Ensuite Bathroom?
An ensuite bathroom is attached to and accessed directly from your guest room. Think of it as your own personal bathroom, similar to what you’d find at a hotel. Because it’s exclusively yours for your whole stay, you never have to share it with another guest or worry about someone else being in there when you need it. Ensuite bathrooms also tend to feel more like a natural extension of your room, helping you to really kick back and relax.
What Are Private Hall Bathrooms Like at B&Bs?
A private hall bathroom is reserved exclusively for the guests of one specific room, but is located outside of that room, typically across or down the hall. While you won’t be sharing it with any other guests, you will need to step out of your room and into a common area to use it. One key upside to this setup is that it can create natural opportunities for guests to cross paths and chat, which is one of the charming, social aspects of B&Bs that many people genuinely love! It also means that you won’t have to worry about keeping it clean.
Which Bathroom Is Right for Me?
Before booking at any bed and breakfast, it’s always worth confirming what type of bathroom arrangement comes with your room to avoid any surprises. That said, if you’re someone who values privacy and the freedom to come and go as you please, an ensuite bathroom is almost certainly the best option. On the other hand, if you don’t mind stepping into the hallway, a private hall bath can work quite well, too.
About the Buttonwood Inn on Mt. Surprise
The Buttonwood Inn on Mt. Surprise has been serving guests in North Conway for over 75 years! Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer retreat, we’d love to help make it unforgettable. You can also enjoy our several thoughtful amenities, including a private bathroom for every guest room. If you’d like to request additional information about booking, feel free to reach out online or call us today! Telephone: (603) 356-2625.