Painstaking historical accuracy combines with modern conveniences at the inn, and it is furnished throughout with an exceptional collection of antiques. We checked in at the front desk in the inn's main building, the Old Tavern, and were directed to a room in the circa-1824 Windham Cottage, just across the street. Among the many antiques was a corner cupboard with Canton china. Our next stop was the inn's bar in the restored Phelps Barn just behind the Old Tavern. Furnished with antique English pub furniture and overstuffed couches, it's known for its broad selection of beers and ales.
Fireplaces warm both the lower and upper levels in chilly weather.
On weekends in season, a pianist or jazz trio entertains here. The menu changes seasonally. The restaurants also serve lunch, and with notice, the kitchen will prepare everything from a wedding cake to a box lunch. The inn has a map for a walking tour, or you can set off on your own to discover the maple-lined streets, a general store in business since 1841, the blacksmith's shop on School Street for a demonstration of the smithy's craft and the Grafton Village Cheese Company, which originated as a cooperative in 1890, where you can learn how cheese is made and sample a variety of cheddars.