Richmond Hill Inn

Our Members Say

 Richmond Hill Inn is removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life; it was a relaxing experience from the beginning to the end of our three-day stay.

Hospitality is key at this historic property. All staff members were friendly and helpful at every opportunity. Everyone at the inn seemed to know that this was our seventh anniversary; we were wished 'Happy Anniversary' even by the cleaning staff!

The grounds of the Inn cover 40 acres, including extensive gardens in full-bloom when we visited in late May 2004. The main guests areas are the Mansion, the gardens, the Garden Pavilion, the Croquet Cottages (both added to expand accommodations) and the croquet court.

The Inn is beautifully and tastefully decorated, and rich with historic interest. Opened as an inn by Dr. and Mrs. Michel, from Greensboro, NC, in September 1989 after a $3-million, three-year, historically-sensitive restoration, the property dates to the late 19th century. Richmond Pearson (1852-1923) built Richmond Hill in 1889. The Queen Anne-style mansion, part of a self-sustaining estate, became a center of social and political life in Asheville for years.

The Inn has named all its rooms for members of the Pearson family (the Gabrielle Pearson Room, the Richmond Pearson Room) or for those connected with Asheville (the F. Scott Fitzgerald Room, the Sidney Lanier Room). And ours, the O. Henry Room named for William Henry Porter who wrote under the name of O. Henry. This room is on the second floor at the rear of the mansion. A well-used, two-volume set of the complete works of O. Henry sat in the bookcase.

Gabrielle's, the restaurant located in the main mansion, offers excellent food and attentive service. Make reservations for dinner early because the restaurant is popular with the Inn's guests, and with locals. 

174 members live in Asheville