There’s something particularly appealing about a Vermont getaway where you can spend the afternoon lounging by a pool, enjoy cocktails and a wonderful dinner without leaving the property, and finish the evening around a fire pit.
At Barrows House in Dorset, Vermont, you can do all three.
Set on six acres of gardens and lawns in one of Southern Vermont‘s most picturesque villages, Barrows House combines the character of a historic New England inn with the amenities of a small boutique resort. With individually designed guest rooms, a heated saltwater pool, tennis and pickleball courts, and an excellent restaurant and bar, there’s plenty to enjoy without ever getting in your car.
It’s a more contemporary alternative to its sister property, The Dorset Inn, and an especially appealing choice for couples, groups of friends and families looking for a Southern Vermont getaway.
A Historic Vermont Inn With a Modern Personality
Barrows House has a fascinating history dating back to 1804, when the original building was constructed as a private residence for Reverend William Jackson, pastor of the Dorset Church.
In 1900, Experience and Theresa Barrows purchased the property and transformed it into a farm and country inn. Over the decades, the estate expanded, with former stables, a blacksmith cottage and even a chicken coop eventually converted into guest accommodations.
Today, the property includes 27 guest rooms spread across several historic buildings, each offering a slightly different experience.
The accommodations range from cozy rooms in the main inn to spacious suites and cottages with fireplaces, sitting rooms, soaking tubs and private outdoor spaces. Some buildings offer multiple guest rooms surrounding shared living areas, making them especially convenient for friends or families traveling together.
I appreciate that the accommodations have retained their historic character while incorporating more contemporary furnishings and amenities. Barrows House feels connected to Dorset’s history without being overly traditional.
A Heated Saltwater Pool, Pickleball & Beautiful Gardens
One of my favorite things about Barrows House is that the property offers much more than a comfortable place to sleep.
During the warmer months, the heated outdoor saltwater pool is a major attraction. Surrounded by lounge chairs and beautiful landscaping, it’s a wonderful place to spend a leisurely afternoon, especially after exploring Dorset and nearby Manchester.
There’s also plenty to keep you entertained if you’re feeling more active. Guests can enjoy tennis and pickleball courts, along with lawn games including bocce, cornhole and horseshoes.
The six-acre property has inviting gardens, expansive lawns and outdoor seating areas where you can settle in with a book or enjoy the surroundings.
And when the sun goes down, the outdoor fire pits are another highlight. The inn even offers complimentary s’mores kits, which I think is a particularly fun touch, whether you’re visiting as a couple or with the whole family.
It feels a little like summer camp for adults, with better accommodations and cocktails.
Cocktails and Creative Dining at Barrows House Restaurant
Another reason I’d recommend staying at Barrows House is the convenience of having its restaurant and cocktail bar right on the property.
Unlike The Dorset Inn, which focuses on more traditional New England fare, Barrows House Restaurant offers a more contemporary dining experience, with seasonal ingredients, creative appetizers and an American gastropub-inspired menu.
The cocktail program is a highlight, and the beautiful bar, accented with locally quarried Dorset marble, is an inviting place to begin your evening.
I particularly enjoy the restaurant’s approach to seafood and inventive small plates. Dishes such as tuna tartare and lobster spaetzle have been among the offerings worth looking for, although the menu changes seasonally.
During warmer months, the outdoor dining terrace is especially appealing. Surrounded by gardens and outdoor fire pits, it’s a lovely setting for dinner or drinks.
One of the pleasures of staying here is being able to enjoy a leisurely meal, order another cocktail and walk back to your room without worrying about driving anywhere.
Breakfast Is Included With Most Stays
A good breakfast is an important part of a Vermont inn experience, and Barrows House makes it easy to start your morning with a proper meal.
A full, hot breakfast is included with most overnight stays, featuring classic breakfast favorites and rotating specials.
One detail to know before visiting: breakfast isn’t necessarily served at Barrows House itself. Depending on the day, guests enjoy their morning meal at the nearby Dorset Inn or Dorset Bakery, both part of The Inns of Dorset collection.
You’ll receive details about where breakfast is being served when you check in.
I actually appreciate having an excuse to visit another property in the village, particularly when it means starting the morning with a good breakfast before heading out to explore.
Barrows House vs. The Dorset Inn: Where Should You Stay?
If you’re deciding between Barrows House and The Dorset Inn, both offer beautiful accommodations in Dorset, but the experiences are different.
The Dorset Inn is the more traditional choice. Dating back to 1796, it’s one of Vermont’s oldest continuously operating inns, with antique furnishings, cozy fireplaces, a historic tavern and a beautiful location overlooking the village green.
Barrows House offers a more modern, resort-style experience. The rooms feel more contemporary, the grounds are expansive and amenities like the pool, pickleball courts and outdoor fire pits make it particularly appealing for longer stays and group getaways.
Both properties belong to The Inns of Dorset, and guests can enjoy shared amenities across the collection.
If you’re craving a classic historic Vermont inn experience, I’d lean toward The Dorset Inn. If you want more outdoor amenities, a contemporary restaurant and room configurations that work well for groups, Barrows House would be my pick.
Explore Dorset and Southern Vermont
As much as there is to enjoy on the property, I’d recommend setting aside time to explore Dorset itself.
The village is one of my favorites in Southern Vermont, with historic homes, beautiful gardens, marble sidewalks and a picturesque village green. It’s particularly lovely during summer and fall, when the surrounding mountains provide a beautiful backdrop.
Nearby Manchester offers plenty of additional activities, including shopping, restaurants, the Southern Vermont Arts Center and Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home.
You can also spend a day exploring the surrounding mountains, hiking local trails or taking a scenic drive through the countryside.
But I’d make sure to leave at least one afternoon completely open to enjoy the pool, gardens and grounds at Barrows House.
What to Know Before Visiting The Barrows House in Dorset, Vermont
- Inn
- Barrows House
- Location
- 3156 VT Route 30, Dorset, Vermont
- Originally Built
- 1804
- Accommodations
- 27 individually appointed guest rooms and suites across multiple historic buildings
- Known For
- Heated saltwater pool, beautiful gardens, tennis and pickleball courts, outdoor fire pits, contemporary accommodations and on-site dining
- Dining
- Barrows House Restaurant, serving seasonal American cuisine, cocktails and Vermont craft beer
- Breakfast
- Included with most stays, served at The Dorset Inn or Dorset Bakery depending on the day
- Best For
- Romantic getaways, girls’ weekends, family vacations, group trips and Southern Vermont summer escapes
- Local’s Tip
- If you’re traveling with friends or family, look into the suites and cottage accommodations with shared living spaces. And during summer, make sure to leave enough time to enjoy the pool before heading to the restaurant for cocktails and dinner.
A Southern Vermont Getaway With a Little of Everything
I love historic Vermont inns, but I also appreciate having a few extra amenities when I’m planning a weekend away.
Barrows House offers a wonderful balance. You can appreciate the property’s history, spend the afternoon by the pool, play a game of pickleball, enjoy an excellent cocktail and settle in for dinner without leaving the grounds.
And with the beautiful village of Dorset and the surrounding Green Mountains just outside your door, there’s plenty to enjoy beyond the property, too.
For couples, families or groups of friends looking for a Southern Vermont getaway with a little more room to spread out, Barrows House is a wonderful place to call home for a few days.
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