Manor Overview
This is not a typical commercial business. I have spent my life restoring antiques and Victorian homes in the downtown area of St. John’s. From childhood, I was fascinated with the popular culture and quality goods which were prevalent here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The restoration of this building has been a pleasant hobby that stretched over 4 decades. The finished project has amazed and intrigued guests. Friends persuaded me to make the building available to the public. I am genuinely enjoying being a host and welcoming people to my home.
There are 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 parlours, a library, large kitchen, kitchenette and a spacious exercise room spread over 4 floors in this 3680 square foot building. Outside is a sizeable deck off the third floor and a lovely mini park directly behind the house. There are 3 bedrooms available online to guests. I live in the 4th and am always available to assist you.
The interior is like a living museum where you can enjoy viewing the exhibits. There are fully functional and perfectly restored antiques in every room. A music collection of over 30,000 78rpm records and wax cylinders, hundreds of books and photographs, early films, working phonographs with metal horns and lots of interesting curios from the past. Demonstrations and tours available upon request. If you have an interest in history and popular culture you might not make it out the door.
My aim is to share these artifacts with people who may have only seen them in movies or behind barriers in museums. As a guest here you are not limited to your room. There are common areas available for your use and helpful advice for the traveler always on offer. Artists, musicians and people from different cultures are very welcome here.
Please see Reviews section for previous guest’s impressions. Also visit Airbnb, Booking.com or Expedia where each of the 3 rooms in Gower Manor are listed. There you will see many reviews from happy guests.
ROOMS
Green Room
In Victorian times, this was the master bedroom. The room is 16 feet square with high ceilings and features a lovely ornate iron fireplace, large window, impressive brass chandelier and a unique hiding place for your gold! There is also an operational servants bell; which sadly no longer summons the butler. Features include a large wardrobe, Victorian lady's dressing table with lighted mirror and other comfortable furnishing.
Blue Room
This elegant bedroom was always used to entertain houseguests. The room is 16 feet square with high ceilings and features a walk-in, cedar-lined closet, ornate iron fireplace and huge stained glass window. It is a comfortable, private, second-floor room at the front of the house. Features include comfortable furnishings, a large writing desk and close proximity to the Jacuzzi.
Harry's Room
A special place maintained in memory of a much-loved brother who served in the Canadian Navy through his working life and traveled all over the world. Whenever Harry visited this was his haven. The room is ideal for the single traveler/explorer. Situated on the third floor of the house it has the whole area to itself. Lots of sunlight streams in through the south facing window and there are many mementos of a life spent on the sea and in foreign lands.
Common Areas of the Manor
Self-Serve Continental Breakfast Available from dawn till noon
Location and History
Gower Manor Historic Bed & Breakfast is located in the center of the downtown heritage district, 5 doors east of the Anglican Cathedral. Situated on the corner of Gower Street and Willicott’s Lane, an area lovingly landscaped and maintained by a long-term resident and frequented by the Haunted Hike. The imposing 3 story building features original trim and multiple stained glass windows. It was built in 1893 and served as a private home with servant’s quarters until falling into disrepair and becoming a rooming house in 1951. It was purchased by the current owner in 1980 and has been fully restored over the last 4 decades.
Because of its central location in the district, the building is right in the heart of everything that would enchant and delight a visitor to St. John’s. Not tucked away out of sight, the house is within easy walking distance of many fine restaurants, take outs and night clubs. No need to take a taxi or risk getting lost. Signal Hill National Park, George Street, the Convention Center and major shopping area are all within walking distance. The owner is on site and always available to answer any questions.
On street parking employing a Visitor’s Permit is available on request. There is a $30 cash deposit required for the permit, which is refunded to you when the permit is safely returned.
