On December 3rd my girls and I went to the Festival of Trees in downtown Exeter, a wonderful annual event organized to raise money for the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce Children's Fund. Fifty trees are decorated, set up on display in the town hall, and auctioned off. All proceeds go towards warm clothing and bedding vouchers for area children in need.
This was the first year I've attended. It was such a beautiful night with warm temps, I just couldn't resist, and my girls had to go because their friends would be there also. In addition to the tree auction there was a horse drawn hay ride, Santa, all the shops were open, AND there was good food to be had.
I noticed The Inn by the Bandstand, located smack dab in the center of town, was having an open house (and I've always wanted to see what it looked like inside) so I made a B line straight there. This was my chance, and I was amazed by just how beautiful it actually was!
Let me tell you straight away, some of these photos are dark or blurry. Photo opportunities without people in them, or without being in someone's way, were limited so I did what I could, and quickly.
Living room just off the front entry. Blurry but very beautiful
Dining room also located just off the front entry
The holiday decorations throughout the inn were incredible. Victoria, one of the owners, has impeccable taste. Wouldn't you love to have breakfast here on a snowy New England morning?
I just loved this tree. I loved the whole Inn!
Looking out onto the town center and bandstand area
The Cambridge Room
The Windsor Suite (my favorite)
The Kensington Room
The Lakeheath Lodge
A view through a window on the top floor. The lines were long to see Santa and view the trees.
And lastly, located in the hall upstairs, a painting of the downtown area in 1982. The grey building behind the bandstand is actually the Inn which has since been painted yellow.Though these photos aren't the greatest I felt it was important to post them. Recently a budget hotel opened in the area and another one will be opening in the spring, both of which will only prove to take customers from this family owned business. I know if I had the choice I would definitely stay at the Inn over any budget hotel!
To see much more of this beautiful place and what they have to offer (as well as better daytime photos) please check out their website:
