Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast
Ocean breezes, home baking, verandas with wicker chairs and rockers all await you at Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast. We look forward to welcoming you to our romantic Victorian Inn. Built in 1895, a school for 50 years, and accepting... more
Here is what guests had to say...
| "Simply the Best"
|
9/29/2009 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
My wife and I just completed a three-night stay at Barclay Cottage. We were in Virginia Beach for the Neptune Festival/Boardwalk Weekend held annually during the last weekend in September. This was our second visit to the "Cottage" and once again Steve and Marie-Louise made us feel right at home.
Barclay Cottage is a wonder to behold. Dripping with history, there are hints of the past at every turn. The Cottage has photos, books, antiques and other memorabilia from days gone by in every room. You never know what little gem you will find sitting on a hall table or next to a chair. Steve and Marie-Louise have not over-looked the smallest detail.
We stayed in the second-floor "Garden Room" which was cheerful and tastefully decorated, splashed with the warmth of our hosts, not to mention the king-sized bed that was simply dreamy. In the morning fresh coffee awaits early risers and at night homemade cookies with a complimentary night cap of choice welcomes you back "home" after a long day of enjoying the beach, restaurants and shops, all within a short walk. The boardwalk and beach are only a couple of blocks away!
Breakfast at Barclay Cottage is nothing short of spectacular. Two and three course breakfasts are the norm. Beginning with fresh muffins or breads, followed by delightful fruit servings through the main course which might be a light and fluffy quiche or the over-the-top Butterscotch French Toast, Marie-Louise's recipes are irresistible! Along with lively and friendly conversation around the breakfast table with other guests and our hosts, there is no better way to start the day.
Steve and Marie-Louise have created a down to earth B&B rich in history, where you can relax and be yourself and where your hosts are as warm as the afternoon sun. My wife and I have stayed at B&B's throughout the Mid-Atlantic and New England states and Barclay Cottage is simply the best B&B we've visited. View Reviewer Info
|
|
| Innkeeper Response |
I hope you'll come back home soon, too! It was wonderful to have you here and to be part of your success in running your first 1/2 marathon. We are very proud of you!
|
| - Marie-Louise (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
When you are here, we feel as if you live here, too! That's how it is...when you are here, you are home. Thanks for feeling that way. We are looking forward to the next time we will welcome you home!
|
| - Marie-Louise LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| "An Unplanned Stay"
|
9/2/2009 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
Our visit to Barclay Cottage was not the trip we'd originally planned. I had checked out the area for a visit in October for our wedding anniversary, but when a dear friend died suddenly and the funeral was to be held in VA Beach, I was suddenly in need of a place to stay. Since Barclay Cottage was the only place I had any information about, I inquired there, never expecting to get in at the last minute. There was one room left, however, and we took it for 2 nights. Our hosts could not have been more helpful. They responded immediately to our inquiry, were flexible about our needs and a late arrival time, and gave us cell phone numbers to contact them as we drove down from Roanoke. When we got there, they had already gone on-line and figured out where the viewing and service were to take place and had printed out directions to both. They were both sensitive to our loss and efficient about checking us in quickly so we could leave immediately after we got there for the viewing Friday night. The next morning, they served us breakfast (which was wonderful!) earlier than the normal time so we would not have to rush to dress for or drive to the funeral. Needless to say, we did not spend the leisurely time there we had envisioned, but we could not have asked for a more comforting respite from the sad occassion which brought us there. Our days were taken up with commemortive gatherings with friends, but we were still able to enjoy sunrise walks on the beach and even a late night supper on the nearby fishing pier. On our last night, as we sat sipping complimetary sherry on the upstairs porch and remembering our friend, I recall thinking that this was the best place we could have possibly ended up. We hope to return under happier circumstances. View Reviewer Info
|
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Yes, your planned trip here for October certainly took a sad turn. We are so very sorry that you lost your dear friend. We certainly empathize with you since we have experienced the loss of two good friends this year. With all you have on your mind, let me thank you especially for taking the time to write this review.
|
| - Marie-Louise LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
C'etait notre plaisir de vous acceuillir chez nous. Merci pour vos bons mots. Nous esperons que vous retournerez peut-etre l'ete prochain!
|
| - Marie-Louise (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We are honored that you chose to stay with us for your honeymoon and that we could be part of the beginning of your long and happy marriage. Thank you for sharing your experience with others. Welcoming friendly people like you into our home is a joy for us and why we so enjoy being innkeepers!
|
| - Marie-Louise LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Thank you for your kind review of our inn. We are glad you enjoyed your stay and hope you'll come back. Thanks for telling others about us!
|
| - Marie-Louise LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Wow! Thanks for remembering us! Steve and I used to travel extensively in our former careers and we try to make our business travelers' experience a bit more homey than it would be in a chain hotel. Now you need to come back as a vacationer and play on the beach...or just do nothing...which is perfectly acceptable here!
|
| - Marie-Louise LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
I couldn't help treat you like family - you're a dead ringer for my cousin, Paul! We enjoyed your visit and hope to see you back, soon. Maybe I can arrange to have my cousin here at the same time and let you two fight it out as to who is the "evil twin!"
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We love to see guests come back again and again. They become close friends and like family to us. It's nice to hear that even small changes are noticed and appreciated as we constantly try to improve our bed and breakfast.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Marie-Louise and I have both traveled extensively on business in our past lives. We know what a grind it can be! We try to provide the little touches that pamper our business guests and that we appreciated or wished were available at the places we stayed. Come home to Barclay Cottage again, and again!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Thank you for taking the time to review our bed and breakfast. We are glad that you enjoyed your visit. If you were here longer than one night, you would have been able to sample the wide variety of breakfasts that we offer. Each one includes fresh fruit, home-baked muffins or breakfast bread, an entrée, breakfast meat (or meatless option) and a side dish or home-baked biscuit, pop-over, etc. Quiche is an example of one of our entrees - a special recipe Marie-Louise learned while living in France. Unless a repeat is requested, guests have a different breakfast menu each day of their stays. Come back and visit us a little longer, and explore more of our many delicious breakfasts.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Couldn't have said it any better myself! And I'm SO humble!
Glad you enjoyed your stay. We try to make everyone comfortable and it's nice to hear when our efforts are successful. We have quite a few guests who come by themselves to relax - or in one case to write a doctoral thesis!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| "Great innkeepers, great location, great inn"
|
11/14/2008 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
I can't say enough about how wonderful Steve and Marie-Louise are. Sometimes when you go to an inn, it's the rooms that stand out, other times it's the breakfast, once in awhile it's the innkeepers. While you have all three making a great impression here (along with a fabulous location, just 2 blocks from the beach), it's the kindness of the innkeepers I'll never forget!
I was in town on business and my computer had a virus. Steve tried to help me, and I also had the good fortune to be sharing the breakfast table with an IT pro. Both worked on my computer, but it was still limping along, and I needed a reliable one for the presentation I was doing. Immediately, Marie-Louise offered to loan me her computer! You wouldn't find the GM of the local Howard Johnsons Motor Lodge or Marriott offering up their computer, would you? This was such a wonderful act of kindness and trust in me. I was astounded at how kind it was.
When you enter the inn, there's a little sign that says "welcome home". Barclay Cottage is like being in your own beautiful home. It's comfortable, casual and filled with lovely heirlooms. The only difference is that someone cooks breakfast for you here (that doesn't happen in my home!) and the breakfast is fabulous - fresh fruit, great coffee and a beautiful quiche.
Barclay Cottage will always stand out in my mind as one of the kindest most memorable B&B experiences I've ever had. View Reviewer Info
|
|
| "Perfect! Absolutely perfect..."
|
6/23/2008 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
I returned home yesterday from Barclay and just looking at the pictures makes me sad that I'm not sitting there now. I cannot say enough about this bed & breakfast. Everything was perfect. My boyfriend took me there as a surprise and actually ended up proposing over the weekend. Steve and Marie-Louise helped to make the weekend so special for us. From an early morning picnic, to mimosas at breakfast, to a "Happy Engagement" sign, to a personalized call to a restaurant ensuring that we had the best seats, to a champagne toast on one of the amazing porches in the evening - they went above and beyond. I really could keep going with all the 'extras', but for the sake of length, will move on:)
The property itself is amazing. Located just two blocks from the beach, it feels just like home. There is relaxing music in the rooms, wide porches with rocking chairs, beach cruisers, and the stay even includes beach towels and chairs! The breakfast that we had each morning was phenomenal. I would stay at this bed & breakfast for the food alone!
I couldn't keep the secret of the wonderful Barclay Cottage (not to mention Steve and Marie-Louise) to myself. Every single time that we are back in Virginia Beach, we will be staying at Barclay Cottage. I suggest you treat yourself and do the same! View Reviewer Info
|
|
| "This is the best inn! After staying here you will want to return many times."
|
5/7/2008 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
Barclay Cottage is an exceptionally wonderful place to stay. Steve and Marie Louise LaFond, the owners and innkeepers, are truly gracious hosts and see to it that their guests have all the comforts available for an amazing stay. Where does one start? Upon arrival Steve or Marie Louise welcome their guests and make one feel instantly at home. The inn, located only 2 blocks from the boardwalk and beach is beautiful, cozy and immaculately clean with wide inviting wrap around porches equipped with comfortable chairs. The tastefully decorated guestrooms with pillow top beds, lovely linens, scented candles and soothing music CDS are thoughtfully designed for total relaxation. The inn provides bicycles, beach chairs and towels to take to the beach. If one prefers to stay inside there is the warm living room with books to read and a TV (with cable subscription) VCR, DVD and a receiver available for movies to watch, plenty of books to read and games to play. In a dresser drawer in the hallway there are menus available from about any restaurant in the VA Beach area. No special touches are overlooked. The daily breakfasts, freshly prepared by Marie Louise, were outstanding and a pleasant ritual to share with the other guests while enjoying the innkeepers’ company and interesting conversations as they sat with us. Steve and Marie Louise’s kindness, generosity and helpfulness will make your stay at the Barclay Cottage an unforgettable experience. When we left we felt like we were saying goodbye to good friends. Barclay Cottage is definitely the place to stay and we hope to return many times. M & W S View Reviewer Info
|
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We're glad you enjoyed your stay. We think staying at B&Bs is a kinder, gentler way to travel! There are some great ones all over the country - just check bedandbreakfast.com when planning your trips.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Thnak you for your kind words...our grandchildren love Nanna's cookies, also :)
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| "Wonderful Romantic Weekend."
|
11/20/2007 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Romantic weekend getaways our specialty!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We must have succeeded in setting the mood just right! You can always come home!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Mom and Dad still love you!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| "Barclay Cottage"
|
10/23/2007 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Great guest!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Glad your first time B&B experience was enjoyable. Unlike hotels/motels, each B&B is different and has different features. A few tips....Research is more important when choosing a B&B than when selecting a chain hotel or motel. Some states, like Virginia, permit B&Bs to opt out of health code requirements PROVIDED the owners state that on all advertising. Unfortunately, the disclaimers never appear and enforcement is lax. Look for AAA or Mobil ratings which are granted only after rigorous annual inspections, and consider staying only in B&Bs that are members of their state associations. Most state associations have minimum health and safety standards for membership and inspect their members for compliance.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We try to stay abreast of local activities so that we can recommend them based upon our own experiences. Besides, we chose to live here because we love the area and enjoy all the things it has to offer.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
I couldn't have said it better myself! Thank-you!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We love it when folks return year after year. It's almost like family visits!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We provide free high speed wireless internet connectivity everywhere on our property. If one forgets the laptop, our guest computer and business center can be used to check e-mail, print bording passes, etc.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Because they wrap around the house, even when it is chilly outside, those porches give opportunities to bask in the sun away from the wind. Also, although we are a smoke free inn, smoking is allowed outside on the patio and porches.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We love it when folks return again and again. It really makes us feel as though we've done a good job! C'mon back next year, but remember you don't have to wait 'til August. There's a lot happening here all year round. How about a Whale Watch excursion in February?
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
How does that saying go?...."There are no strangers here - only friends you have not yet met." We like to think that applies to Barclay Cottage. We've truly met some wonderful friends in our 4 years of innkeeping.
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Glad to oblige! Sometimes we can actually see the stress leave our guests. Come again soon. We'll be sure to leave some cookies out!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| ""Ever sleep on a cloud...?""
|
7/4/2007 |
|
| Overall |
 |
| Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
"...well, tonight you're going to!" How great is that to be greeted that way by a fellow guest who passed by us during check in ?
Barlclay lived up to its billing, and far surpassed it in all the ways that matter...cleaniness, hospitality, convenience, reasonable rates, while at the same time, in a picturesque setting that makes you feel right at home. No sterility here in atmosphere, only in cleanliness! The innkeepers are really hospitable folks who genuinely make you feel that your comfort is their first priority. We settled right in to this gracious atmosphere, and allowed oursleves to forget the reality of the other 51 weeks of the year! The breakfasts are beyond delicious...not sue how they manage home cooked gourmet, but they sure do! We had special diet needs and these were graciously accomodated...they went out of their way to have delectables four every palate!
Gold Star Place! We will be back again! View Reviewer Info
|
|
| Innkeeper Response |
It's appreciative folks like y'all that make us feel blessed that we are innkeepers. This wonderful home has been accommodating guests since 1917 and was an elementary school for 50 years. It seems to have a lot of good vibes that make our jobs even more joyful!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Elsa, thank you for your kind words. Come back soon!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We were glad to help with the car situation. Same as we would do for any of our friends - like Bill and Donna!
|
| - Stephen LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
We were thrilled that you chose a stay at our B&B during which to become engaged. We hope you come back to visit often and share many more happy memories. Besides, we really love Mimosas!
|
| - Steve LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Thank-you! Come back and see us when the weather is a bit warmer! Spring is finally bustin' out all over - Marie-Louise's gardening efforts are really paying off!
|
| - Stephen LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
While Marie-Louise and I are not runners, we try to support our guests who are - whether marathoners or just folks out for a jog. Virginia Beach has 134 miles of biking and running trails. C'mon down!
|
| - Stephen LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Thank you so much for your kind words. It is always nice to know that one's efforts are appreciated by guests. Be sure to come back and stay with us on your next getaway!
|
| - Stephen LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
Thank you for your review. We've passed your comments about our rooms being "very clean and well kept" on to Heather, our assistant, who was pleased to hear that her efforts were recognized by guests.
|
| - Stephen LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| Innkeeper Response |
GO! BARCLAY COTTAGE RUNNERS!!
|
| - Stephen LaFond (innkeeper) |
|
| All reviews are the personal opinions of BedandBreakfast.com site users and do not reflect the views of BedandBreakfast.com. |
Please share your comments with the millions of travelers who visit BedandBreakfast.com.

Contact Information

Barclay Cottage Bed and Breakfast400 16th St Virginia Beach, VA 23451-3406 USA
| Phone: | +1-757-422-1956 | | Fax: | +1-757-422-5449 | | Toll-free: | +1-866-466-1895 |
Innkeeper(s) Steve & Marie-Louise LaFond
Rates: $95 - $250
Reviews
| Overall |
 |
| Guest Rooms |
 |
| Service |
 |
| Value |
 |
| Cleanliness |
 |
| Dining |
 |
|
|
|