The Duke of Marlborough

My wife and I have just returned from a cruise from Hawaii to Sydney via New Zealand. One of the ports visited was The Bay of Islands, New Zealand. We have been there before and have always taken the little ferry across to the town of Russell. We did the same this time. We usually just have a beer at this hotel, but, on this occasion it was my birthday so we decided to have lunch there. So very glad we did. It was exceptional. From the menu, to the view from our table, to the superbly cooked and presented food, to the excellent table service, (special mention to Alistair, our wonderful, friendly, professional waiter), the whole experience was nothing short of excellent. The restaurant was full. Hardly a free table. A sign of a quality establishment is to be so well patronised. My wife and I would highly recommend you have a meal in this hotel should you visit this town. Ours was memorable and one of the best meals we've ever had anywhere in the world. It is essential you book ahead. It is popular. Congratulations to all management and staff at this establishment.

Historical hotel on the water with the expected quirks and squeaks. Bathrooms have been updated beautifully. Walking distance from shops and restaurants. Hotel restaurant was good but pricey. Recommend reservations.

Duke of Marborough The Duke has a wonderful restaurant with great views of the bay. Such a pretty spot.

Beautifully presented hotel on the harbour Beautifully presented historic hotel, right on the harbour front, well equipped spacious room, wonderful comfy bed

About a genuinely near-century old pub refurbished, refreshed and brilliantly run on the foreshore of NZ’s historic Kororareka: Russell? The owners have paid due respect to heritage while upping the amenity of generously sized rooms (ours opened via twin sets of French doors onto a generous front verandah with glorious, peaceful views of the bay) without losing any of the charm. Rather they’ve enhanced it by engaging Northland artist Lester Hall to curate the interior design with quirky, humorous and informative art works. The downstairs dining room:bar:verandah spaces are roomy with working open fireplaces, comfy old chesterfields and enough space to dine without having to strain to hear your partner speak. The food:wine:service is another winning combo - we dined in both nights as the experience was so good. Even a mistake on the bill was rectified a week later after leaving a query by telephone. Outstanding service indeed! We visited in early winter so the town, its excellent museum and exquisite oldest church in NZ (complete with extensive tapestried pew cushions) were quietly enjoyed. Reckon the place would rock in summer sailing system and the Duke would show another equally enchanting face to its visitors. We’d return in a heartbeat.