Admiral’s Inn & Gunpowder Suites is just under 40 minutes from the V. C. Bird International Airport, in the center of Nelson’s Historic Dockyard. Parking is no problem if you rent a car at the airport, which we recommend for freedom of exploration.
The hotel’s proximity to English Harbour makes it an excellent option for boat lovers, and families who would rather spend their vacation exploring than staying put at a resort. Don’t skip the 10 minute drive up to the classic Antigua viewpoint at Shirley Heights, which has a Sunday night party that’s not to be missed.
Admiral’s Inn & Gunpowder Suites offers two properties in one. You’ll drive into Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and arrive for check-in at the historic Admirals Inn, a brick, waterfront building featuring a warm entrance hall and lounge and a bar serving a welcoming rum punch. This side of the property has several rooms – described more below – and one restaurant, plus a small man-made beach that serves as a launching point for kayaks.
A 2-minute boat ride takes you across Freeman’s Bay to the hotel’s other half, the Gunpowder Suites — a hillside oasis with rooms surrounding an infinity pool overlooking the bay, dotted with lounge chairs and plush, elevated daybeds. The beaty and wellness spas are tucked below the hillside suites.
The small boat that shuttles guests between the two sides of the property also cruises to kid friendly Galleon Beach, a bit of a hidden gem among Antigua’s beaches. Nature walks can also be taken right from the property.
Rooms can be found on both sides of the property. On the inn-side, rooms offer views of the dockyard and boats anchored in the shelter of the bay. These rooms have a historic maritime vibe about them, with dark wood furnishings, classic white linens, and (best of all) huge windows. Each has its own distinct personality, with unique architectural features like bare bricks, wooden beams, or old restored floors. There are a few family-sized rooms in this part of the property, which have lots of space, but be warned that they lack the insulation needed for a quiet night’s sleep.
The hillside Gunpowder Suites, across the bay next to the pool, are the dreamiest rooms on the property and the ones we recommend for families (even if it means sharing a sleeping space).
The inn serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Pillars, which has a great waterfront spot next to the lobby. We recommend dinner reservations because the restaurant is quite popular even among people not staying at the hotel. It serves fresh seafood and locally sourced vegetables on a tree-shaped patio, plus pasta for kids and a wide selection of wines for parents. Boom, the poolside bar and restaurant, has classic poolside fare for lunch and delicious happy hour cocktails.
There are bed-and-breakfast and half-board options available.
Don’t waste your time searching for rates and availability. We can handle it (and love it!), at no additional cost to you.
Exceeded expectations in all aspects! This is one special place! The historic aspect of the Admiral’s Inn is charming and does not detract from a very pleasant stay. The staff members are very efficient, responsive and warm. We enjoyed a three-day stay and enjoyed every moment. The location is amazing — right in Nelson’s Dockyard. Our room (in a separate building) was very comfortable and surprisingly quiet. The food and beverage service was great. Other restaurants, beaches and shops are a short walk/taxi ride away. If you love boats and history — this is the place for you.
Reviewed by Dani K, Dec 2021, via TripAdvisor
Beautiful location, great food, free activities, and infinity pool! Our stay at the Gunpowder Suites location was a dream. The staff went out of their way to accommodate us and were extremely helpful every step of the way. They arranged off site meals for us and even a doctor’s visit for the required COVID test to get back into the US. The rooms were beautiful, clean, and comfortable, and the view of English Harbour / Nelson’s Dockyard is unbeatable. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a beautiful spot nearby beaches, restaurants, and bars.
Reviewed by Dani K, Dec 2021, via TripAdvisor
Want to see more of what Antigua has to offer? Dive into our complete Antigua Collection for more family-friendly hotels in Antigua and must-do activities.
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