Castle Hill Inn Newport

From actress Grace Kelly to playwright Thornton Wilder, Castle Hill has captured the imagination of guests from around the world with its enchanting setting, relaxed elegance, and authentic Newport vibe.

Today’s Castle Hill continues to evoke the magic of years past while at the same time providing guests with a contemporary luxury experience—one marked by personalized service, world-class cuisine, and extraordinary attention to detail. Travel back in history with us to learn more about our historic Rhode Island hotel.

As Newport began to grow into a prominent seaport, the wealthy built great architectural tributes to the life of leisure: splendid, multiple-roomed mansions called “cottages.”

Castle Hill was a gracious, shingle-style song of a house commissioned in 1874 by marine biologist and naturalist Alexander Agassiz of Harvard University. Today’s inn was his original summer home, where he kept his eye on the ocean and the sea life within it.

He filled his house with the best of Chinese and Japanese art and furnishings, especially bronzes and porcelain, many of which are still present in the house.

In the great hurricane of 1938, the waters of Castle Hill beach and cove became one, cutting the peninsula off from the mainland. Mrs. Maximillian Agassiz, daughter-in-law of Alexander, became so frightened that she refused to return.

During World War II, the Mansion housed Naval officers while functioning as an impromptu base. After the war, the Inn became a summer hotel, hosting Hollywood royalty from time to time.

Grace Kelly stayed here while filming High Society in the 1950s; the rocky cove she cherished visiting is now named after her. Renowned novelist Thornton Wilder was also a frequent visitor and describes the turret suite as a “magical room” in the autobiographical novel, Theophilus North.

Eventually, all accommodations were winterized, making Castle Hill a year-round retreat for those who sought its beauty, grace, and solitude while still retaining its old-world charm.

In 2008, Castle Hill became the first Rhode Island property to be invited into the prestigious Relais & Chateaux family. Widely regarded as the foremost authority on luxury hospitality, Relais & Chateaux recognizes hotels that combine one-of-a-kind accommodations with exceptional cuisine.

Today, Castle Hill continues to carry on its storied legacy while ever elevating its guest experience. Book your stay at our historic hotel in Rhode Island to experience the legend in person.

Stunning Newport Accommodations
Originally built in 1875 as a summer residence for a noted Harvard University marine biologist, this luxurious inn on an exclusive 40-acre peninsula bordering the ocean is a coastal haven of romance and relaxation.

Whether you are staying in a cottage on Castle Hill’s private beach, taking time out to take it all in from the terrace, or indulging in New England cuisine in our dining room, you will be guaranteed panoramic views of the Atlantic and its sailboats floating by.

Each of our 33 Newport accommodations features such luxuries as high-speed Wi-Fi, Farmaesthetics local herbal bath amenities, flat screen televisions and more. Some rooms also feature oversized soaking tubs, cozy fireplaces, and wet bars.

Lighthouse Suite
Located on the third floor, the Lighthouse Suite is one of the most spacious accommodations in the Agassiz Mansion. It offers distant ocean views and limited views of the East Passage and the Narragansett Bay.

The Lighthouse Suite offers a bedroom and sitting area, separated by French doors. The bedroom boasts a king size bed, a gas jet fireplace, and an oversized soaking tub overlooking the grounds.

The sitting area features a queen size pull-out sofa, circular table with four chairs, and an additional television. In the bathroom, enjoy a spa experience in a glass and marble stand up steam shower.

Turret Suite
Located on the third floor of the Agassiz Mansion, this bi-level suite is located in our historically renovated turret with a panoramic view of the Narragansett Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Castle Hill Lighthouse.

The lower level of the Turret Suite offers a king size bed on the first floor along with a gas jet fireplace, hardwood floors and a plush sitting area overlooking the East Passage.

The bathroom features a large marble walk-in shower with a full front glass door, an oversized flat designer showerhead and separate body sprayer heads.

A custom wood spiral staircase leads to the second level and the focal point of this romantic suite – a gleaming, white marble bath chamber with 320-degree views of the surrounding land and waters.

Harbor House
The Harbor House rooms overlook a rocky enclave where actress Grace Kelly used to famously sneak down to the water’s edge; a staircase was built so she could climb back up from her secluded hideaway.

Sitting on a cliff with panoramic views of Narragansett Bay this charming respite is sure to please. Each Harbor House features a queen size bed, gas jet fireplace, espresso maker, and fridge.

Additional amenities include hardwood floors and custom décor complement the cozy setting. French doors open to a semi-private porch with Adirondack chairs and a view of the Newport Bridge.

World-Class Newport Dining
NEW ENGLAND DINING AT ITS FINEST
Both restaurants abide by all state guidance on spacing and safety protocols, and are available by reservation only. We kindly ask that you arrive no more than fifteen minutes before your reservation, as walk-up bar service and Adirondack Chairs are not open at this time.

If you are looking for an unforgettable dining experience with remarkable ocean views, bountiful local flavor, and extraordinary service, venture out to enjoy one of Castle Hill Inn’s world-class Newport restaurants.

Combining seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with culinary techniques from around the world, the kitchen’s talented team creates dishes that are inspired, delicious, and beautifully presented.

Paired with a wine list consistently recognized by Wine Spectator magazine as one of the world’s best, the food at Castle Hill is worth the trip alone.

THE DINING ROOM
The Dining Room at Castle Hill inn with prix fixe fine dining and award-winning wine list is now open. With the current restrictions on capacity and table spacing, our restaurant is limited to just fifteen tables of no more than five guests each.

Residing inside the historic Agassiz Mansion built in 1875, The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn has been the backdrop of memorable occasions for over a century. The Forbes Four Star restaurant boasts a prix fixe menu showcasing the talents of Chef Lou Rossi and his renowned culinary team.

Welcome Message from Executive Chef Lou Rossi:

On behalf of the culinary team at Castle Hill Inn, we welcome you to our home and hope that you will enjoy our New England traditions, creative touches, and beverage offerings.

We have designed the menu to be enjoyed in the traditional “prix fixe” style to present the talents of our chefs and the natural bounty of Rhode Island.

At Castle Hill, we are indeed blessed with a location that is second to none in New England – not only for the view, but for the availability of such wonderful sources of ingredients to bring to the table.

These range from local seafood surrounding Aquidneck Island, to the artisanal cheeses crafted throughout the region. We hope to serve you a meal that will speak both to the nostalgia and tradition of New England cooking, while inviting you to experience something new along the way.

Our natural setting constantly guides our menu-scripting, and our tradition inspires us to exceed your expectations.

THE LAWN
Experience classic New England coastal dining at The Lawn restaurant, featuring unparalleled views of Narragansett Bay. In warmer months, al fresco dining is offered on our terraces overlooking the rolling lawn.

As fall & winter approach, we offer the same casual ala carte menu indoors from the comfort of the main mansion. For decades, locals and visitors alike have savored our take on regional cuisine, fresh seafood, and cocktails that change with the season.

We do not take reservations for the chairs, however there is a capacity limit. Unfortunately, once that capacity is reached, new arriving guests will be directed to return at a later time, or another day.

We expect this capacity to be reached frequently on weekends and advise guests to have backup plans before venturing this direction in an Uber or other transportation service.

Service for the chairs is walk-up only, and does not include food options – only beverages. Upon arrival, guests must check in at the host stand and record their name and phone number for contact tracing.

Upon evening closure, or weather closure, we do not have another indoor space for continued walk-up beverage service at this time.

Boutique Spa
The Retreat at Castle Hill by Farmaesthetics
Nestled on 40 acres overlooking the southwestern corner of Narragansett Bay, Castle Hill Inn is a coastal haven where guests come to relax and rejuvenate against a spectacular New England backdrop.

We are pleased to offer guests even more incentive to indulge with our offerings at The Retreat at Castle Hill by Farmaesthetics. Our Newport, Rhode Island intimate boutique spa offers treatments that reflect the tenets of classic herbal formulation. Be sure to check back often for the most up-to-date offerings.

All products at our boutique spa in Newport, RI are made with organically grown herbs and flowers from American family farms, many harvested from the seaside farmlands of Rhode Island.

The freshest, most luxurious face and body treatments always end with visible results, and that is what you will experience with Farmaesthetics, and all enjoyed in the pristine atmosphere of a mansion suite at Castle Hill, one of the most coveted resorts in Rhode Island.

Weddings at Castle Hill
IN LOVE ON THE OCEAN
From our historic lighthouse with its guiding light to our vast green lawns rolling down to the water, Castle Hill Inn boasts an array of majestic locations to say “I Do” on our 40-acre peninsula.

Lovely, majestic, and serene, Castle Hill Inn offers the lovely couple and their guests privacy and creative planning support to ensure your celebration is exactly as you envisioned.

Take in panoramic views of the Atlantic ocean and Narragansett Bay at our historic estate and choose from a variety of unique possibilities guided by the seasonal beauty of New England.

From lantern-lit gardens and white sandy beaches, ideal for warm-weather Newport, RI weddings, your backdrop will create breathtaking memories to be cherished. Enjoy al fresco dining and dancing at its finest underneath the billowed shapes of our custom sailcloth tent.

And when the air turns cold, cozy up inside with friends and family where fireplaces crackle, couches are heaped with pillows, and tables are laden with fine wines, comforting fare, and golden candlelight. When designing your Newport wedding at Castle Hill, you’re encouraged to dream big.

Whether you picture an intimate seaside sunset wedding or an al fresco affair for 400, our personal event planners will work with you on every detail to make the day unmistakably your own. We are also happy to offer luxury accommodations for your friends and family.

RELAX, REFLECT AND UNWIND
Only three hours from New York City and less than two from Boston, our central location on southern New England’s coastline makes it easy to retreat from the stress of everyday corporate life for private events in Newport, Rhode Island.

Intimate conference rooms with panoramic ocean views, luxury accommodations, seasonal on-site activities, and customizable menus mean business and pleasure go hand-in-hand when gathering at Castle Hill.

While here, we encourage you to think beyond the boardroom. Our private event planners will help your group create team-building opportunities perfect for your staff, from a private sail (groups & events only) to waterfront meetings and personalized events in our Newport, RI event venues.

From legendary clambakes to New England-inspired custom itineraries, there are so many ways to create a spectacular event for your attendees.

Coastal Meeting Venues in Newport
BE INSPIRED BY NARRAGANSETT BAY
Whether you are planning an active team building event, a professional board meeting or a formal dinner event, Castle Hill is pleased to provide a broad range of unique services for corporate meetings, retreats, special events, and outings.

Built to impress even the most seasoned executives, all of our Corporate Meeting Packages will include world-class accommodations and amenities. You will be guaranteed privacy on our 40-acre peninsula overlooking Narragansett Bay, complete with private dining and meeting venues in Newport, RI.

During your visit, you’ll enjoy award-winning cuisine complete with waterfront views and much more. Get started today for a corporate meeting that won’t resemble any you’ve had before. Learn more about what you can expect at Castle Hill Inn Beyond the Boardroom.

ELEGANT DINING EXPERIENCES ON THE COAST
The Mansion is proud to play host to smaller, intimate affairs for your next celebration or business dinner.

Whether our Ocean Room, Newport Room & Agassiz Room – each offer breathtaking views that are synonymous with Castle Hill. Our culinary team presents a variety of seasonally influenced menus to best suit your event.

CELEBRATIONS BY THE SEA
There’s simply no better place to celebrate life’s milestones than at Castle Hill Inn. Whether it’s a family reunion, a 50th birthday party, or a wedding anniversary, our breathtaking setting, award-winning restaurant, and event expertise ensure your event will be a success for all who attend.

Once you choose your ideal Newport event space, our personal event planner will work with you to customize the details. Think bocce ball on the Chalet lawn, sipping signature drinks in Adirondack chairs, and al fresco dining as the sun sets.

Legendary Newport Clambakes
A NEW ENGLAND TRADITION
Treat yourself to a time-honored New England tradition by experiencing Newport clambakes at Castle Hill Inn. Our clambake pit, nestled on the far edge of the bluffs, is the weekly centerpiece to a dining experience rich with natural flavors and homegrown fun.

Guests can observe the process, sip artisan cocktails in Adirondack chairs, or play bocce and croquet against the backdrop of Newport Harbor until it’s time to gather for a uniquely local and expertly prepared feast.

Grace Kelly Beach
Over the summer of 1956, Grace Kelly retreated to the solace of Castle Hill between takes of High Society, an American musical-comedy set in Newport. The film also starred Hollywood greats Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra, who vie for Kelly’s socialite character amidst the glamour of the oceanfront mansions.

When not relaxing in her Harbor House at Castle Hill, Kelly would sneak down the rocky landscape to the water’s edge. There, she would sun on the rocks, swim in the cove, and enjoy the solitude of her secluded shoreline, where autograph seekers couldn’t disturb her.

The climb up, however, wasn’t nearly as fun; the staff soon built a staircase so she could reach her hideaway with ease. She spent so much time on the rocky enclave that Castle Hill staff and guests soon began referring to it exclusively as “Grace Kelly Beach.”

Castle Hill Beach
After the great hurricane of 1938, the waters of Castle Hill beach and cove became one, famously cutting the peninsula off from the mainland.

An intimate coastal beauty, the arc of white sandy beach in Newport surrounded by calm waters has called generations of families and guests to its shore for annual summer retreats. Today, Castle Hill is Newport’s only luxury inn boasting private beach accommodations.

The majestic coastline offers quintessential New England rock formations and magical sunsets, making it the perfect locale for splashing in the surf or to relax in peaceful contemplation.

Castle Hill Lighthouse
Built in 1890 by celebrated American architect H.H. Richardson, the graceful Castle Hill Lighthouse seems almost a natural extension of our rocky seascape. The stunning lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island was constructed after Agassiz deeded the land from his property to the U.S. Government for $1.00.

A marvel to behold, the granite tower stands 34 feet tall and has in the past featured a 1,300-pound fog bell.

In addition to serving as a beacon for ships navigating Narragansett Bay, the lighthouse has also acted as the starting and finish line for many of Newport’s famous yacht races, affording guests unparalleled views of the action from our rolling Lawn. Explorers can easily reach the coastal icon by footpaths on our grounds.

Castle Hill Cove
One of the main reasons Agassiz chose to build his summer cottage at Castle Hill was due to the private, well-protected cove in Newport where he could keep his boats.

Each day, the naturalist and his students would push off from the inlet into the greater bay to catch marine life, which they would later study in their laboratory, the Chalet.

The long, narrow cove is well protected, has an average approach of four feet at low tide, and is also home to a Coast Guard station. Take a Rhode Island sailing excursion from the cove when you stay at Castle Hill Inn.

TIME TO SET SAIL
Newport is world-renowned for its unparalleled sailing and yachting opportunities. Whether you are planning a team building event aboard one of the America’s Cup 12 Meters or chartering a sunset cruise with family and friends on a historic yacht, our staff is happy to assist with a tour that works best for you.

No experience is necessary to enjoy the adventurous ride aboard, but crews are happy to coach those interested in learning.

Sunset Sails
During the summer months, Newport sunset sails depart from the marina docks, inviting guests to relax and enjoy a cocktail on the water during the twilight hour.

The Castle Hill Inn Flagpole
The flagpole is a replica of the mast and rigging used on the 1905, Rhode Island built, Herreshoff NY-30 class sailing yachts. Hand-hewn by Pat Shea of Castle Hill Inn and shipwrights Jim Titus and Jeff Szala of Mt. Hope Boat Works, the 42 foot high sycamore spruce mast was erected on Friday, May 24, 2013.

The team used archived blueprints from a 1917 vintage NY-30 to plan the restoration. The pole was fashioned from sixteen individual planks of rough-hewn wood, and then joined, planed, and sanded into shape.

All work was done by hand, representing more than 500 hours of artisan craftsmanship. The flagpole, yardarms, and gaff pole were finished with eight coats of marine varnish.

DISCOVER THE WEST END OF OCEAN AVENUE
Situated on 40 glorious acres at the west end of Ocean Avenue, Castle Hill Inn offers guests a secluded retreat where luxury is paramount and relaxation is our hallmark.

Stay in one of the hotel’s extraordinary accommodations, which include mansion rooms with soaking tubs, refined beach houses with full kitchens, and luxury suites. While here, enjoy private beach access, take a sailboat out on Narragansett Bay, or explore the quaint shops of downtown Newport.

Among Newport, Rhode Island hotels, Castle Hill Inn offers a private resort-like experience and extraordinary service. Read more about our historic legacy, which began in 1875, and discover the best hotel in Newport, RI today.

EXPLORE NEWPORT WITH CASTLE HILL INN
What was once the summer playground of American Industrialists, Newport has become one of the most renowned Rhode Island vacation destinations with with 11 historic properties and landscapes, seven of which are National Historic Landmarks, that trace America’s architectural and social development from the Colonial era through the Gilded Age.

Review nearby attractions in downtown Newport and a variety of activities to enjoy in the area during your stay at Castle Hill Inn.

If you’re an arts enthusiast, enjoy Newport’s diverse music lineup throughout the year. Listen to classical music in one of the nearby mansions or see a concert on a waterfront stage at the annual Sunset Music Series. Best known are the world-renowned Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals held at historic Fort Adams.

Located near many galleries, museums, and landmarks that celebrate the city’s Colonial heritage and storied nautical history, our hotel in Newport is among the best places to stay in Rhode Island for access to arts and cultural events.

A coastal haven where guests come to relax, rejuvenate, and play against a spectacular natural backdrop, Castle Hill Inn is a historic property that marries tradition with contemporary amenities.

While here, indulge in spa services at The Retreat, taste local wines at a wine pairing dinner, enjoy private beach access and more. Book your vacation in Newport, RI today.

FROM LAND TO SEA
Once you turn onto Castle Hill’s tree-lined driveway from legendary Ocean Drive and pass our private marina, you enter another world. Yet our secluded property is merely minutes from the action of downtown Newport, also known as the City by the Sea.

Few coastal towns offer as much to do as our city: Guests can tour historic mansions, go shopping on Thames Street, visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame, ferry out to the Rose Island Lighthouse, or view art at the Newport Art Museum.

From taking a private charter out on Narragansett Bay to touring famous Newport mansions, there are a variety of Newport, RI activities to enjoy in every season when you stay with Castle Hill Inn.

What was once considered a summer destination has become a year round coastal haven for those looking to practice the art of relaxation or those looking for adventure out on the water or on land. Review some of our favorite things to do in Newport and book your seaside stay in Rhode Island today.

Tour Newport Mansions
With over 800,000 visitors a year, the legendary Newport mansions are one of Rhode Island’s top attractions. The Preservation Society of Newport County operates several different homes.

Of these, the most popular mansions are The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff. Learn more about touring the mansions here.

Enjoy a Fishing Demonstration
Life by the ocean gives us an appreciation for the sea life swimming beneath the waves and the skills it takes to reel in the big one. We are excited to host a weekly shore fishing demonstration for our guests with a local expert from the Newport County Saltwater Fishing Club.

Every Wednesday evening by our Beach Cabanas, local experts show us the ropes of fishing from the shore and chat about the local sea life and what is able to be caught in the waters this time of year. We will provide you with all the supplies needed including poles and bait.

No fishing license is required to participate in the demonstration (although you will need one if fishing outside the demonstration – we can help too). Learn the joy of fishing at the hands of a seasoned expert while soaking in the magic of the Castle Hill coastline at twilight.

Go Sailing
Set sail in Newport, RI, often referred to as “Sailing Capital of the World.” On a typical sail cruise or charter, guests can gaze upon Newport’s legendary mansions and lighthouses. The sweeping views of Newport and Jamestown are the perfect backdrop for sailing cruises and charters.

Barton & Gray Ocean Escapes
Castle Hill Inn is delighted to partner again this year with Barton & Gray Mariners Club to offer exclusive day-trip charters out of the Castle Hill Marina. Pack a picnic prepared by our chefs and explore the nooks, crannies, coves, and beaches of Narragansett Bay.

You can also set your sights on Block Island or CuttyHunk in the Rhode Island Sound, or even Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, or Watch Hill. For reservations and further information, contact Guest Services.

Enjoy Other Water Activities
Narragansett Bay delightfully opens to the Atlantic Ocean and offers a rare retreat for fishing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. Small, protected inlets along the rocky shoreline provide exquisite diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Surfing has also become a mainstay in Newport culture year round, with mighty waves coming from the tropical storm season 100 miles off shore in the late summer and early fall.

Play a Round of Golf
Take in the scenery from golf courses with water views offering world-class vistas and athletic challenges. Castle Hill is located close to a number of renowned clubs, each with its own unique setting and challenging holes.

Have a Beach Day
Although Castle Hill Inn offers private beach access to Grace Kelly Beach and Castle Hill Beach, Newport offers a variety of other nearby beaches worth exploring.

From Easton’s Beach along the famed Cliff Walk to relaxing Gooseberry, there is something for everyone, whether you have your heart set on sunbathing or having a swim.

Taste Local Wine
Consider exploring one of the wine world’s best-kept secrets: Aquidneck Island, one of the nation’s most desirable areas for vineyard production.

Ample farmland and a moderate micro-climate allow for a long growing season that produces complex flavors in our wines. Enjoy expertly led tours of our local wineries, Newport Vineyards and Sakonnet Vineyards.

Explore nearby attractions in Newport, please visit Discover Newport and The Preservation Society of Newport County and make the most of your stay at this iconic coastal escape, an ideal place to visit in every season.

THE BEST OF THE SEASON IN NEWPORT
During the fall and winter months, Newport takes on a whole different charm as a premier New England vacation destination.

Visitors can enjoy the splendor of the changing weather reflecting the beauty of our coastal views and beaches while partaking in an abundance of special events and activities. From Newport Restaurant Week to the holiday festivals and shopping, there is much to be enjoyed throughout the fall and winter in Newport.

Browse through some of the best Rhode Island activities near Castle Hill Inn, and be sure to check out our winter itinerary for more insider tips.

CUSTOM ITINERARIES FOR GROUPS
What was once considered a summer playground has become one of Rhode Island’s most revered vacation destinations in every season.

From wine pairing dinners and private charters to guided hikes and beachcombing adventures, the range of activities guests and meeting attendees can enjoy at Castle Hill Inn and nearby is expansive regardless of the time of year.

When planning your vacation or meeting at our New England luxury hotel, refer to our custom itineraries to make your stay in Newport productive and pleasant from one moment to the next.

Website: www.castlehillinn.com

Rooms: 35

Price: from 560 EUR per night