Harborside Home offers a charming retreat in Portsmouth's Historic South End. With its beautifully renovated seacoast home and original 18th-century features, you can unwind by the Rumford fireplace or soak up sunshine through skylights and windows.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6149 sq m
Popular amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free Wi-Fi
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District.
A beautifully renovated seacoast home conveniently nestled in Portsmouth’s Historic South End.
The original 12’ x 33’ section was a “Fish House” in Strawbery Banke & Prescott Park in the 18th century and was moved to its current location in 1820. We carefully doubled the size of the house while maintaining the character and integrity of the original building. All the door hardware, nails in the floorboards, coat racks, fireplace tools, goose necks and handrails were made by a local blacksmith. The wide pine, hand-hewn boards that dress out the living room belonged to our builder’s Great Grandfather. The reclaimed bricks in our traditional Rumford fireplace are from a local mill building that was razed years ago. You’ll need to strike a match to light the burners on our original 1927 Glenwood stove. Between the skylights and windows, every room is filled with sunshine and bright light even on a cloudy day. Open windows and doors fill the space with sea breezes. The floors are soft pine. The kitchen cabinets, cherry bar, shaker style table and chairs are all handmade giving the house a very warm and cozy feeling reminiscent of days gone by but with an upbeat modern flair. There is a laundry room upstairs. The upstairs bathroom boasts a fantastic walk-in shower with Barber Wilson fixtures, excellent water pressure and a claw foot tub. The driveway accommodates two cars.
In the summer our tiny backyard is a treat with a beautiful lawn and flower gardens. The gas grill is plumbed inline, so propane tanks are not necessary. Bring your own bikes or rent them in town. Ride across the new Memorial Bridge into Kittery, ME., ride out to New Castle, or pack a lunch and ride to the beaches of Rye and Wallis Sands. The road to New Castle, the Commons and the Wentworth by The Sea Hotel are all legendary. People walk, run, bike, and drive the route every day, year-round, with cameras in tow to capture the beauty. The downtown working waterfront of Historic Portsmouth with its tugboats, ships, water views, restaurants, shops, etc., is nothing short of spectacular even in the offseason.
This is our home of thirty-five years which is pretty much stocked, very clean, and without clutter. In the pantries, cupboards, and drawers you'll find everything you'll need to cook and dine. Help yourself to anything, and replace it in kind as you see necessary.
The house is a one-minute walk to a Lobster Pound that will boil lobsters for you. It’s a five-minute walk to the Fish Market and boutique wine & cheese shop next door. If you don’t feel like cooking or eating in, stroll along the waterfront and into charming downtown Portsmouth where there are over ninety restaurants, pubs, bars, bakeries, coffee shops, galleries, and gift shops. You will also find indoor and outdoor concerts, theaters, museums, harbor tours, and special events held in the beautiful, flower-lined waterfront parks. The Saturday Morning Farmers Market a few blocks away is worthy. Except for day trips, you can leave your car in the driveway and walk or bike to everything. We think you will be pleasantly surprised by our home and won't regret your decision to stay with us.
We're happy to help you plan your trip, answer any questions, and accommodate in any way we can. Call or email with any questions, concerns, special requests, etc..
IMPORTANT NOTES: PLEASE no shoes, no pets, no smoking, and no roller suitcases rolling around in the house. This is NOT a place for loud noise, music and night parties given our proximity to our great neighbors. Maximum number of overnight people is six. In a pinch, the sleeper couch in the living room can be used, but it’s open to the entire first floor and not private.
Thanks for your interest.
A Harborside Holdings, LLC. Property.
Property amenities
Beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels
Pool/Spa
Communal pool
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Car not required
Parking on site
Kitchen
Blender
Coffee grinder
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Electric kettle
Hob
Kitchen island
Lobster/crab pot
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
2 bathrooms
Bathtub
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Entertainment
Books
Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
Stereo
Outdoor areas
Garden
Gas grill
Patio
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Printer
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
5 steps to reach entrance
Handrails in stairways
No lift
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In the city centre
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near a zoo
Near an outlet shopping centre
Near the marina
Things to do
Boat
Golf
Kayak
Tennis
Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
NO SHOES, PETS, SMOKING OR ROLLER SUITCASES.
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is not required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Located in Portsmouth, this holiday home is in the city centre and near a water park. Market Square and Nubble Lighthouse are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Long Sands Beach and Hampton Beach. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's going on at York Golf and Tennis Club, or consider a night out at Casino Ballroom. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Portsmouth travel guide
Does Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District. have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
Is Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District. pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District.?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District.?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District.?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District. located?
Located in the heart of Portsmouth, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Children's Museum of Portsmouth and Market Square. Wentworth Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses and Players Ring Theatre are also within 10 minutes.
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Unique and Charming Home In Portsmouth's Historic District. Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Fantastic host in beautiful historic home plus great location!
Rob is the best host - communicative, leaving treats, checking in, and has a positive and warm demeanor. The property is gorgeous with original details from the time period but modern comforts. The location cannot be beat - walk everywhere and water views on all your walks. Steep stairs were a slight concern for older family members but they were able to navigate them. The oven that is more modern and easy to use is not in the main kitchen which was one small inconvenience. And the lighting is dim - no overhead lights as that is in keeping with the time period of the home. But those were very small issues - overall the stay was really just wonderful. We would strongly recommend booking this property with Rob! You won't regret it.
This is our second time staying here and we had a great stay again. Rob is always very friendly and stocks the fridge and pantry with items you might need. The location is a short walk to town and in a lovely neighborhood.
Mike M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Nancy N.
24 Oct 2014
Great house and wonderful owners
We stayed in this home 4 nights while visiting our Grandaughter. The house is very well equiped and charming. Rob was very helpful with suggestions for restaurants, shopping, and things to see. This was our second time staying in Portsmouth but staying in this wonderful house and getting the advantage of a local to guide us, made this stay special and a trip to remember.
Nancy N.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Liam C.
3 Sept 2014
wonderful home, location and owners
at pretty short notice we got in touch with Rob and Joyce about their property and they were back in touch with us super quick. We stayed for four nights and really enjoyed their lovely home. They were very thoughtful in leaving us some basics for our stay; milk, coffee, beer, etc
The house was just as described; clean, had great amenities, beautiful garden and was in an excellent location close to downtown.
We'll be back again.
We couldn't have possibly had a better experience. Rob and Joyce are wonderful. The house is in a perfect location for exploring the Portsmouth area, and most everything is in short walking distance. The house was immaculate and well stocked with everything you could possibly need. We can't wait to return!!! Thank you Rob and Joyce!!!!!
Brad S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jody E.
22 Aug 2017
Perfect for Our Trip
Rob and Joyce have represented this house perfectly. It is charming, unique, historic but with modern amenities , clean, meticulous, well appointed, and very comfortable. Three sisters and our mom spent 4 days there in July 2017 and could not have chosen a better location to explore Portsmouth and surrounding area. We walked and biked into town several times, spent time relaxing in the beautiful yard and enjoyed the peaceful area where the house is located. Rob and Joyce we so accommodating and gave us loads of helpful information to make our trip enjoyable and easy. We highly recommend it for a group of 4 adults.
I can’t fault our stay at this great house in Portsmouth.
The house has been beautifully renovated with lots of quirky personal touches. On arrival it was spotless and very well equipped with everything we could possibly need.
Rob, the owner was extremely helpful in his pre visit communication, making sure that everything we needed for our holiday was provided and giving us lots of suggestions for activities, both before and during our stay. His flexibility was much appreciated as we were travelling from the UK with young family members.
The location of the house was perfect- in a beautiful area within walking distance of parks, shops, restaurants and other attractions. We walked into town each evening.
This was our first visit to Portsmouth and we will be back. We would love to stay at this property again.
Sheila S.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Karyn K.
1 Jul 2016
Perfect Getaway
My husband and I absolutely loved this place! The house itself was immaculately maintained. It had beautiful wood floors that added to the open airy feeling both upstairs and down. Everything appeared to be freshly painted. The house was situated on a very quiet side street with almost no traffic. We found it to be the perfect walking distance to the many downtown restaurants and shops. The only day we used the car was for a short ride to Wallis Sands Beach for a day in the sun. We were able to take a harbor cruise, shop a bit, hit the local farmers market and just sit in the backyard and relax with a glass of wine. Lots of history to see at Strawbery Banke and lots of beautiful old architecture as you weave through the side streets to and from town. Owners Rob and Joyce are top notch adventurers and gracious hosts who made sure we had everything we needed . Absolutely worth a visit, hated to leave!
We loooooved this house. It is so charming and neat and clean as a pin. The owner was wonderful. He had food and drink items in the fridge for us along with a cake and flowers for my daughter and I in honor of our birthdays. He was very communicative and made everything stress free and welcoming. The home is nicely located - - we enjoyed our short walks into the main part of town to go to restaurants and enjoy everything that Portsmouth has to offer. We loved our time in the house - - open windows with cool breezes but very nice a/c for the bedrooms when needed. We were so comfortable. The house was very homey and amply supplied. We enjoyed hanging out in the living room and using the kitchen most mornings for our breakfasts. Overall a truly delightful experience. Adorable, well maintained yard complete with vegetable garden and beautiful plants throughout the house. You could feel how loved this home is and so well maintained. I wouldn't hesitate to stay here and you feel completely safe.
Estuvimos una semana en esta casa y cumplió todas nuestras expectativas. La casa esta muy bien tenida, muy bien ubicada y con toda la dotación que es necesaria. Los anfitriones te hacen sentir más cómodos aún gracias a que dejan muchas cosas de utilidad a la mano y además contestan tus preguntas y te ayudan de inmediato. Quisiera volver a este lugar todos los años.
Gracias a Rob y Joyce por tu generosidad y por abrir las puertas de su maravillosa casa.
Por favor decidan ir a esta propiedad! Es perfecta.
Wonderful historic home in perfect location for mix of quiet and convenience, fully updated and retains the classic character and charm. Our hosts thought of al the right hospitality touches for our stay and are perfectly friendly and helpful. We’d like to return to this area and to this neighborhood and to this property.
Everything about this stay was perfect but most of all the hosts are incredibly welcoming and over the top with their hospitality and generosity. That includes food in the fridge, text check-Ins and recommendations, use of products in their home, and super friendly attitude. Definitely will rent from them again when back in Portsmouth!
So glad we found this property and had so many suggestions from Rob & Joyce about where to go around the area. Would highly recommend this to anyone interested in relaxing.
We couldn't ask for a better location. Everything within easy walking distance (because who wants to spend vacation in a car?) but the home is on a quiet street in a beautiful neighborhood. The home is very comfortable and our host made sure we lacked for nothing. One of our best VRBO experiences yet.
Elizabeth J.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Robin S.
3 Aug 2017
Perfect Summer Vacation
We loved staying in this house! Rob and Joyce were wonderful and the house is so cheerful and perfectly located for a short stroll into the historic town of Portsmouth or for a bike ride along the coast! We can't wait to go back!
Robin S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
19 Oct 2016
Relaxing retreat for busy work/fun trip.
What an incredible gem!! This was my first visit to Portsmouth, it most certainly won't be my last. I had business to attend to in the area and was happy to discover this wonderful, comfortable, and cozy home. Attention to detail was evident throughout this beautiful home. I have a very strong appreciation for "real" and was impressed by every aspect of this historic home down to the handmade nails in the flooring. It was so easy to relax at the end of the day in a place that felt more like home to me than the place that I live. I also loved the location of the home on a quiet little lane that offered access to the entirety of Portsmouth with a short and easy walk. I took in a wonderful concert in a local park and enjoyed several of the dozens and dozens of first class restaurants. All right out your front door!
If you are looking for quiet, classy, authentic, comfortable, easy, and great access to Portsmouth look no further! You will be glad you did!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Todd S.
4 Oct 2016
Peaceful Sanctuary During a Busy Wedding Week
My wife and I rented this property the week of our wedding. The house has old world charm with modern amenities that have clearly been lovingly maintained. The location couldn't be more ideal for people seeking convenient walking distance to everything downtown yet still being tucked away in peaceful Strawberry Banke. What we are most stuck by is the extent to which Rob & Joyce made sure we had a seamless experience. As a result it became our sanctuary during a whirlwind week of wedding events. We will never forget it. Thank you!
Todd S.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jillian S.
14 Jul 2016
Magic from the moment we arrived!
This was an absolutely incredible vacation from start to finish. The historic home is beautiful, clean and very charming. We immediately felt "at home." The property is in a historic district which sets the scene for a picturesque getaway. Everything is within walking distance- beautiful gardens, delicious restaurants, we even stumbled upon an outdoor concert at the nearby park. Most importantly the hosts Rob & Joyce are very friendly and accommodating with great recommendations for your visit. Can't wait for our next trip back to beautiful Portsmouth!
Jillian S.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Liam C.
11 Mar 2016
excellent hosts, house and location
for the second time in two years we rented this property from Joyce and Rpb. Once again they were very accommodating and we really enjoyed our stay. Great location and property for those that want to be close to downtown Portsmouth.
Liam C.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
24 Jun 2015
Absolutely Wonderful
We just stayed for the weekend at Partidge Street and enjoyed ourselves immensely. The location was minutes to everything Portsmouth has to offer all while being located on a quiet side street. The home is impeccable. Gorgeous design, beautifully decorated and incredibly comfortable. We do have one thing to warn you of, you won't want to leave. Many thanks for a memorable weekend.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Joan B.
7 Dec 2014
Thanksgiving Week
Just stayed on Partridge Street house for Thanksgiving week while waiting to move into property purchased just a block away.....perfect location to get to know the neighborhood, walking distance to town, restaurants etc. Wonderful home to be in for a holiday. Great kitchen for baking Thanksgiving pies etc. and had a family brunch in the lovely kitchen/dining room. Fire in fireplace in the evenings made our stay that much more enjoyable. It was just like being "home" ! In fact, better than home ! A wonderful VRBO rental in a great town in any season !
Joan B.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jocelyn E.
18 Aug 2014
Charming
This exceptionally cared for home is a gem! Moments from resturants, sightseeing and even the farmers market. The owners care and thoughtfulness was evident in everything from the fresh garden vegetables and groceries in the fridge to the samples in the bathroom. I hope our travels bring us back to this home.