The Murray Premises Hotel occupies part of the Murray Premises, one of the city's best-known heritage buildings on Water Street at Beck's Cove, and it is described as the first boutique hotel in St. John's. The hotel overlooks the Narrows, the channel that leads into the harbour, and it sits in the old commercial heart of the city close to George Street and Signal Hill. Guest rooms are described as having electric fireplaces, oversized Jacuzzi tubs and towel warmers, while the executive suites add two-person air massage tubs, stone fireplaces and full-body showers. The style leans toward cosy and romantic, with a historic setting and personal service.
Location and getting around
You are on Water Street, so restaurants, shops and the harbour front are on your doorstep, and George Street is a short walk. Signal Hill is within a taxi ride or a determined walk, and The Rooms is a short climb up the hill behind the downtown. As with other downtown hotels, you will want a car or tour for Cape Spear and the Southern Shore, but you can happily leave it behind for city days, since parking in the historic core is limited and often tight.
The rooms and the feel
This is a small, character-filled property rather than a large chain hotel, so expect individual rooms, historic fabric and some quirks in layout. The fireplaces and deep tubs make it a favourite for a cold-weather stay, and the harbour and Narrows views add to the atmosphere. Ask which rooms face the water, and consider an executive suite if the tub and fireplace are the point of the trip. The hotel's own pages stress personalised service, from special requests to extras.
Who it suits and what to know: couples and travellers who value atmosphere over facilities will enjoy it most, and families may prefer a larger hotel with a pool. Check the hotel's site for current room types, breakfast arrangements and parking, because these can change. The building is historic, so ask about accessibility and stairs if you have mobility needs, and note that Water Street can be busy on weekends, so ask about quieter rooms.
Why stay here
- ✓Boutique heritage setting
- ✓Electric fireplaces in rooms
- ✓Oversized Jacuzzi tubs
- ✓Towel warmers
- ✓Executive suites with air massage tubs
- ✓Views toward the Narrows
- ✓Water Street location
- ✓Personalised guest service
Good questions
What kind of hotel is the Murray Premises Hotel?+
It is a boutique hotel inside the historic Murray Premises building on Water Street, billed as the first boutique hotel in St. John's. It overlooks the Narrows.
What are the rooms like?+
Guest rooms have electric fireplaces, oversized Jacuzzi tubs and towel warmers, and the executive suites add air massage tubs and stone fireplaces. Check the hotel's site for current room types.
Is it good for families?+
It suits couples best, because it is a small boutique property rather than a resort with a pool. Families should ask about room sizes and compare it with larger downtown hotels.
