The hotel itself is old, from an American perspective. We saw a painting of the Grote Markt in the Franz Hals museum, painted in 1669, and the square looks exactly the way it does today. We were able to point and say, "There's the Carillon."
The hotel is basic, super-comfy beds with down comforters. Don't expect luxury; no in-room phone, limited cable. But the rooms are clean, baths are modern, and the steep, narrow stairs are interesting. Our room overlooked the Markt, and we were able to amuse ourselves during "down times" by people-watching from our windows.
No air-conditioning; we were there in May and didn't need or miss it. Haarlem is definately the place to stay versus Amsterdam. Much quieter and safer.
The owner's daughter spoke great English and was friendly and helpful. We are going back to Europe next year and will definately stay here.
The Carillon is so named because of St. Bavo's catherdral across the street. The bells ring periodically during the day, then from 9-9:30 in the evening. This sounds annoying but was in fact, charming.
