Award Winning House in Portmouth's South End

See all properties

Save

Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

Hot tub

Washer

Outdoor space

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Fireplace

Explore the area

Portsmouth, NH

Strawbery Banke Museum6 min walk
Market Square6 min walk
The Music Hall13 min walk
Manchester, NH (MHT-Manchester-Boston Regional)53 min drive

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

About this property

Stay in a beautifully rejuvenated 18th century, light-filled, Georgian home with views of the Piscataqua River, just minutes on foot from Strawbery Banke and Portsmouth's downtown dining and shopping. Staying at the stunningly refurbished Tobias Lear House, where President Washington took tea in November of 1789, will immerse you in Portsmouth's rich history. It's like living in a museum house but with all the comforts of the 21st century. The house’s sleeping arrangements include a family suite with two bedrooms as well as Madam Lear’s Chamber, which features an en suite bathroom. All our bedrooms, most comfortable beds and beautiful views. In May 2023 the Tobias Lear House’s rejuvenation was honored by the NH Preservation Alliance. Due to the house's historic nature and close proximity to neighbors, our maximum is four adults and two children and we do not allow parties or events on site.

Property manager

Anthony Conti

Premier Host

Languages

English

Amenities

Hot tub

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 30

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Please enjoy one of our several outdoor seating and dining areas but please also be respectful of our neighbors.

We have eight fireplaces but unfortunately cannot allow you to build a fire in any of them. The chimneys were blocked up during a recent renovation.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Portsmouth

Located in Portsmouth, this holiday home is by the sea. Market Square and Nubble Lighthouse are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Long Sands Beach and Hampton Beach. Check out an event or a game at Casino Ballroom, and consider making time for Water Country, a top attraction not to be missed. Kayaking and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and ecotours nearby.

Portsmouth, NH

What's nearby

Strawbery Banke Museum - 6 min walk
Market Square - 6 min walk
Portsmouth Brewery - 11 min walk
The Music Hall - 13 min walk
Water Country - 10 min drive

Getting around

Dover Transportation Center - 19 min drive
Portsmouth, NH (PSM-Portsmouth Intl.) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

‪Thirsty Moose Taphouse - ‬12 min walk
‪Starbucks - ‬12 min walk
‪Hearth Food Garden - ‬10 min walk
‪The Works Bakery Cafe - ‬12 min walk
‪River House - ‬12 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Award Winning House in Portmouth's South End pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Award Winning House in Portmouth's South End?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Award Winning House in Portmouth's South End?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Award Winning House in Portmouth's South End located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Wentworth Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses and Market Square. Children's Museum of Portsmouth and Prescott Park are also within 5 minutes.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Michael V.

27 Nov 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Historical Property

We really enjoyed our stay in Portsmouth. Communication with Anthony was excellent. The house is in amazing shape. It is really cool to have the opportunity to stay in a home with so much historical significance. Thank you for opening your home to us!

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eleanor M., Owensboro, KY

31 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Stay

This home has been perfectly renovated to retain the historic details while adding all the modern amenities you want to be comfortable! It was a great place to experience with friends for a destination wedding weekend. My only wish was that we’d stayed a few more nights! I hope to be back one day with family to really relax and enjoy this beautiful house for a longer stay!

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

21 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing House!!

The Tobias Lear House was incredible and if we could give it 10/10 stars we would. It was more than we could have dreamed and we were absolutely delighted with our stay. Surrounded and immersed in history, the house is honorably maintained and full of character. We loved the decor, beautiful rugs, books, and artwork. The kitchen and bathrooms were exceptional and had everything and more than we could have asked for. The fridge had been supplied with water, OJ, eggs, butter, jam, as well as bread and bananas, which was a sweet surprise and nice touch. The location was perfect and we enjoyed walking into town. Parking was close and plentiful. The host was very responsive with any questions we had. We truly would recommend this house 100%. We are looking forward to visiting again. Thank you for the opportunity to stay in such a remarkable home. We were grateful and honored to enjoy our time together in this stunning part of history.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dahlton B.

28 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous Historic House & Excellent location

This stunning, spectacular home is in the perfect location near the water and within walking distance to wherever you want to be, from nearby gardens, charming, chic shops, and delectable dining. This historic home is impressive with its restoration and opulence. Very comfortable, well-appointed. Thoughtful, communicative hosts. We look forward to coming back soon!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Noah J.

20 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

High quality property

We loved our stay. The fascinating home, the gorgeous surroundings, and the relaxed feel and beauty of Portsmouth made for a perfect trip. Thank you for a memorable experience.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandy M.

8 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect stay in Portsmouth

Our stay at the exquisite Tobias Lear House was absolutely perfect. It was such a special stay for my daughter’s wedding. We could walk to all wedding events and everything else to offer in beautiful Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The home is well represented on the VRBO site-

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

chris f.

2 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

One of the best vacation rentals I’ve had the pleasure to stay in. Top shelf. Thank you!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

kendra b.

28 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Over the top

We took our British family to New England to introduce them to American history and scenery different from their usual trip to us in Florida. We could not have imagined a more perfect house to set the stage. My spouse and I usually select beautiful restored homes (B&B's) when we travel, but this was far superior to any place we've ever stayed. We felt welcomed, even embraced, by the welcoming feeling the house provides - in addition to the amazing restoration and beautiful antiques. In our experience, we've been willing to sacrifice some of the modern conveniences in order to enjoy the ambience of the old homes. Not so in this case. Bathrooms and kitchen are top of the line. I'll close by saying that my husband immediately claimed a spot in the study, with a comfortable chair and amazing reading light and declared that he simply was not leaving! Thank you so much. We will always remember this home.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Becky W.

20 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great home for my family!

I was so excited to stay in this historical home and it did not disappoint. This home is beautiful; I felt like I was transported back in time, but we had a beautifully updated kitchen and bathrooms. We enjoyed our morning coffee in the beautiful garden; it was so peaceful. We can’t wait to return and stay longer. Anthony made everything so easy and we appreciated the supplies. Best VRBO experience we’ve ever had!!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Serenity M.

17 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enchanting

My fiancé and I stayed here in early spring and loved every second! We chose Portsmouth for the nightlife but found ourselves more interested in exploring and enjoying all this beautiful home has to offer. Entering the front door was like stepping back in time - with all the comforts of modern living. It was clear from every detail that great care was placed on rehabilitating this home in a way that preserves all of its glory, while elevating it to the fully imagined dream of the family that worked so hard to build it. We spent our entire first evening roaming from room to room; exploring, reading about its history, and enjoying each other's company in a way this world has forgotten. We highly recommend gathering your closest friends and enjoying this incredible experience together. We saved the first night for ourselves and had our friends join us for the second night. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for an experience unlike any other is this lifetime. We greatly appreciate the care that was taken in the home itself and in making us feel at home. We will be back! 💗

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kris-Anne K.

1 Jan 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

History buffs paradise!

The Tobias Lear House met all of our expectations and more. The home is immaculate and filled with beautiful 18th and 19th century furniture. We enjoyed just sitting in the front parlor ( where George Washington stopped for tea), reading some of the many books on local history that were provided throughout the home.The kitchen has top of the line appliances, and the owner was gracious to leave goodies for us upon our arrival! The home is a nestled in a quiet neighborhood just a 10 minute walk to town and Strawberry Banke. We look forward to returning again !

Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

meredith P.

29 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautifully restored historic home with modern amenities

We came from California to meet up with our adult children living on the east coast for a New England Christmas experience, and we couldn't have been more pleased. The house has so much history and is beautifully furnished with quality antiques and art, not to mention books galore. Modern kitchen and bathrooms are well-appointed, and the location is ideal, being one block from the river and a short walk to town. When we arrived after a long day of travel we were pleasantly surprised to find the house with provisions in the kitchen and decorated for the holidays in authentic Colonial style, with poinsettias, pine boughs, holly and fruit all around and even a small Christmas tree in the front parlor - such a gracious and unexpected touch! Ice skating a few blocks away was a treat, and we enjoyed several excellent meals in town and prepared a home-cooked dinner on Christmas. Anthony was very helpful, easy to work with and responsive. We would return in a heartbeat!

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christina G.

13 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing historic house in Portsmouth

We rented this house over Thanksgiving and it was an incredible experience and a genuine privilege. The house is beautifully rehabilitated but still amazingly has the same floorboards on which George Washington once walked. The history is there and the house has all the modern conveniences - luxurious showers and a wonderful kitchen equipped within everything one needs to cook a feast. And Anthony was incredibly helpful throughout the booking process and our stay. We highly recommend this property.

Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marianne J., Tennessee

19 Sept 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

True Colonial Experience

Amazing location! Very well appointed with period furniture throughout! Beautiful gardens and outdoor amenities. Convenient nearby parking. Surrounded by period homes. Our group had a wonderful experience in this home. Anthony was a great host. Knowing that George Washington actually had tea in one of the parlors created such an atmosphere!! I would come back in a minute!! Thank you for your hospitality

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

John F.

14 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Colonial Gem

We feel fortunate to have stayed in this home. It's a piece of history, with beautiful views, and tasteful modern upgrades of the highest quality. We do ask one thing: if anyone reading this stays in the home, please treat this property respectfully! We want to stay there again and hope the owners continue to allow guests. The home is the perfect combination of ideal location, luxurious accommodations, and class. Thank you for sharing home!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kevin Y.

13 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historical - yet modern - magnificence.

It is difficult to provide a summary for this wonderful property. The level of attention to detail and care provided to this home - and it’s rehabilitation - is simply stunning. It served as a perfect spot for our family to enjoy one another and some of America‘s history at the same time. The property manager and the owner are to be commended for their high level of attention to every detail. Our family is filled with wonderful memories from our stay at the Tobias Lear House.

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Madeleine G.

9 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

THE nicest place imaginable.........

The property grounds were filled with plants and flowers, so inviting. The house was just amazing, the kitchen was beautiful, had everything we needed, the bathrooms were so nice, and there was plenty of room for the 4 of us. The kitchen and all 3 bathrooms are modern while the rest of the house will take you way back in time. I was so happy I chose to stay here, what an experience!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth C., Boston

26 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible historic house in an amazing location!

We had a wonderful stay at the Tobias Lear house. It is definitely one of the best VRBOs we've ever found, and we have stayed in many, many of them over the years. It was impeccably clean and offered all sorts of extra thoughtful touches like grocery staples waiting for us upon our arrival; Anthony reaching out to us prior to our stay to see if we would like any restaurant or activity recommendations; flexibility with our arrival time; very responsive and easy communication with the property manager; and seamless/easy check-in and check-out instructions. This house is extremely well-maintained and has amazing antique furniture and fixtures (but has been completely redone very recently and so feels very modern and comfortable). It has every amenity and supply we could have needed, including luxurious towels and bedding, etc. We would love to come back again and would give this property 10 stars if we could! The neighborhood is amazing and walkable to all sorts of shops and restaurants (and right by the water). The house has 3 included parking spots, so that was an added convenience. We stayed with our three children, but would highly recommend this property to anyone!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Anthony H.

29 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A spectacular piece of history

It's hard to overstate how much we enjoyed staying in the Tobias Lear house. From the period furnishings to the fantastic location, it was more than we had hoped for. The house itself it a true gem, a mix of old and new – most of the house is period furnished but has been updated with modern bathrooms and a fantastic kitchen. We were able to leave the car parked and walk to many nearby attractions and wonderful shopping and dining. We regretted that we had only booked it for two nights. It was an experience we won't soon forget.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica L.

10 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place, will return

We had the loveliest weekend with family in this gorgeous home. The bedrooms, space, and kitchen served us well and provided exactly what we needed for a weekend stay. My children (6 and 9) loved the selection of history books and learning about the property. Our children are respectful and cautious and we were out of the home with family events for much of the weekend but it might be a tough place for kids that are more rambunctious. Check in and out was easy, very responsive and helpful. Our only note is that we mistakenly used the gate leading to the adjacent property's large lawn area and were graciously told by the neighbors (the museum staff) that the area was not for use. Helpful to make that explicit. We hope to return! Such a lovely piece of history.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Fred L.

4 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Overnight museum visit

Ageless homestead in historic neighborhood. An amazing and unique experience. Early 1730 residence completely restored to comfortable living in a sea coast town. This overnight tops anything I have ever resided in.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022