Churchill Manor Bed and Breakfast

The 1987-opened Churchill Manor Bed and Breakfast occupies an 1889-built mansion that was the first residence in the Napa Valley to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Previously belonging to the area's wealthy elite, it often held social events and weddings, which still take place today. A historic elegance is on display from the moment when guests arrive, thanks to beautifully manicured garden grounds with roses and a fountain leading to a white-columned exterior. A wraparound porch holding dining tables and wicker couches is a popular spot to eat breakfasts or sip on wine during the evening wine and appetizer receptions. Inside the three-story building are stunning, untouched woodwork and multiple seating areas. Traditionally elegant decor is found throughout, including antique rugs, patterned wallpaper, large armoires, and gilded wall decor. A few fireplaces, piano, and TV room with half-finished puzzles add to the homey vibe, and the bright sunroom features original mosaic flooring and murals of Napa Valley scenes that correspond to room names.

The classically sophisticated style and historic air lends itself to a great romantic getaway, and the property primarily hosts couples, plus some groups and families. Owners Joanna and Brian are typically on-site and can be seen chatting with guests, often giving advice on where to go in the area. Note that steps are required and there's no elevator. 

The Churchill Manor is at the corner of two streets in a quiet residential neighborhood of Napa. A market is across the street, and dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops are within a five- to 20-minute walk. Morimoto Napa, The Uptown Theatre Napa, and Oxbow Public Market are a six-, eight, and 18-minute walk, respectively. The Napa Valley Wine Train is about a 20-minute walk away, or six-minute drive. On-site parking is available, including a charging station for electric vehicles. Sacramento International Airport is a 70-minute drive, and San Francisco International Airport is just about 10 minutes longer. 

There are 10 individually decorated and named rooms at Churchill Manor, all featuring classically elegant furnishings and antiques. Aside from the Carneros Room, which is by the sunroom, all rooms are on the second or third floors -- accessed by stairs, as there's no elevator. Although decor varies between units, typically rooms have carpeting, traditional wood or metal furniture, patterned wallpaper or painting effects, and cozy bedding that includes white quilts. Hanging tapestries, floral light fixtures, and original Delft tiles add unique character to various rooms. Rooms are largely spacious and have gas fireplaces, air-conditioning, wine glasses, iPod docks, desks, seating, and ironing facilities. Private bathrooms have showers, plus separate bathtubs in most, as well as a range of toiletries, hairdryers, and bathrobes. Free Wi-Fi is provided, but there are no TVs, which most romancing guests don't seem to mind. Rooms also lack fridges, but a communal one in the sunroom is available or guest use.

Some rooms can accommodate a third person with a daybed. The second-floor Stags Leap is the original master suite of Edward Churchill, housing an original fireplace mantel and stunning mural over the stand-alone tub.

As expected of a bed-and-breakfast, amenities are limited at the Churchill Manor, with the property lacking a full restaurant, gym, or pool. However, what's provided is high-quality and raved about by past guests. All rates include a three-course breakfast that can be taken in the sunroom or out on the porch when the weather is nice. The spread consists of serve-yourself yogurt, granola, fruit, bread, and pastries, followed by a fruit course and a choice of two hot options that change, such as omelets or pancakes. Tea, coffee, and water are available 24/7. Fresh-baked cookies are set out in the afternoon. Every night, free wine and appetizer receptions take place, where guests can try Churchill Manor's own small-batch Cabernet. 

Wi-Fi and parking are free. Wedding and events are often held on-site, and various packages are available. In-room massages can be arranged.