The Elgin Fairlawn, Kolkata

The hotel with 300 yers history. Every corner is a masterpiece. The location is very convenient. Very close to the shops and the Main Street. The amenities are little bit tired and the shower is oldest old. The sheets are grey. The breakfast is tasty and enough of variety. The stuff is helpful and friendly. The comfort stay in Kolkata.

I read a number of critical reviews before we booked The Fairlawn, so it was with some trepidation that we arrived for a five night stay. I am pleased to report that our anxieties were ill-founded, as our experience in this hotel was excellent. We did get stomach problems, but that was not from their good restaurant at The Fairlawn - we finally identified it being from eating pastries at Starbucks in Bengaluru airport. Good rule - steer clear of all pastries while travelling in India! It's not the first time we've been laid low by pastries... one would think we'd learnt that lesson. The room we had was great. It was upstairs, and looked out on the side street below. The bed was extremely comfortable, and even the TV had reasonable options for English-speaking audiences. There is a fabulous sit-out on the upper floor, where you can catch up on reading or online work. And the breakfasts are a welcome spread with enough to satisfy all tastes. While we were there, we saw ***y foreigners and Indians alike enjoying their stay - they are often full-booked, so that speaks for itself. Also, they had a rolling maintenance program in place, which is what a heritage hotel requires, so that indicates they are not allowing everything to disintegrate uncared-for. I must praise the staff. The reception especially was always responsive to all our requests, and service and restaurant staff couldn't do enough for us. Unfortunately, since 'Diamond' Oberoi (how embarrassing to have such a nickname!) died, they have not yet been able to reattain their liquor license, though it is hoped to be soon. But there is a wine and beer shop just down the road, so that's not a problem. We felt the restaurant was very good, and certainly it is well patronaged by the elite locals, so that is a commendation. Certainly, it is good food, although I personally feel the prices don't quite match the quality level. Nonetheless, you won't be disappointed. If there is any down-side, it is related to Sudder Street, not The Fairlawn! We last stayed in Sudder Street nearly twenty years ago. If you want to taste the Calcutta of Geoffrey Morehouse et al, then by all means, reside there for a span. Twenty years ago we were twenty years younger, and more eager to mick with the crowd of degradation-renown - 'the Real India'. But now, firstly there is no such thing as 'the Real India', and secondly, ro***ticising grubbiness in the midst of traffic has reached its used-by-date. Twenty years ago, at least the traffic was minimal in this whole area, although the crowds in New Market are the same as ever even if the touts are now unbearable, but traffic in Kolkata is the same as traffic in all major cities across the world (except Singapore). Really, what's the point in visiting any city? They are all the same! I suggest you certainly experience The Fairlawn, as it's heritage style is delightful, but otherwise, stay closed to Park Street, or whatever they call it now.

I definitely want to come here again . It was very enjoyable. Prakash, annand and rinky are wonderful at the service. It was really nice. I enjoyed my experience a lot. The ambience is very welcoming and charming.

Excellent food served with a dash of historic nostalgia. A place I recommend no one misses if they have any interest in good food. Our experience was made memorable thanks to the services of Prakash, Ashish, Vishu. The were nice and welcoming.

One booked this hotel, expecting the high standards of the Elgin chain of hotels. Unfortunately, forget luxury standards, the hotel did not even meet basic standards. The property has clearly seen better days and is currently riding on it's past---which is not reason for a discerning traveller to check in. The rooms are musty and have damp patches. The bathrooms have clearly been done up by an amateur, as basics such as hooks for clothing were missing. Towels had holes in them. The rooms did not have provision for suitcases...stools had to be brought in. Located in a noisy area, the rooms were not adequately sound-proofed. Certainly not worth the price!

All perfect! We’ve been to the same hotel 13 years ago . We are happy to see that the new ***agement is striving to keep the heritage alive! This time he spent only one night here but we had the chance to experience the restaurant, the veranda for a nice aperitivo , the breakfast under a gazebo and everything was impeccable!

A very charming and lovely hotel with friendly and helpful staff. Reception arranged a guided tour for us which was excellent. The rooms are clean and a good size with vintage furniture both in the bedrooms and in the main areas. The air con is very efficient. We loved sitting on the first floor outside terrace. We ate in the outside restaurant both nights that we stayed, as it was a very pleasant environment with good reasonable food. Very good coffee and cakes. When we stayed they didn't have a liquor license which was a pity but we understand they hope to have one shortly as they have applied.

The food was excellent and the ambience was really great . The staff members was really helpful and cheerfully greeted us. Awesome experience. Hospitality was really great . The best part was the last desert item we had . Really enjoyed our time .