Arbutus Inn

We were in town for the Royal Victoria Marathon and needed a place to stay close to the start/finish line. A friend of mine had recommended the James Bay Inn. It seemed to fit the bill, so we decided to book in.||It was a lovely experience - it’s an old building full of character. The staff were awesome and helpful (you don’t get that kind of service at chain hotels). There is a pub and restaurant downstairs that serves tasty food and the inn is close to the Legislature, the museum, the wharf, and many neat shops/restaurants. Parking is free in the hotel’s parking lot. We stayed in a Petite room which served our purposes perfectly.||We are coming back again in 2026 for the RVM and are hoping to get back in here again. Thank you guys for a wonderful experience!

Older building, with delightful rustic charm. Friendly and welcoming staff. We stayed here mid October. Free parking on site was available. Our stay was comfortable and fun. The location is excellent, with lots of Victoria places to visit within walking distance. We stayed in the king bed room, the layout was really nice and spacious. Our bed was squeaky, wasn’t bothersome to me but just a heads up. In the morning, they have complimentary coffee/tea available in the lobby for guests.

Our stay at the James Bay Inn was nothing short of amazing. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm, genuine hospitality — the staff here truly go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and cared for. The customer service was exceptional across the board. The inn itself is absolutely charming — full of character, history, and thoughtful details. The textures, colors, and classic decor give it a unique personality that you just don’t find in chain hotels. It’s cozy, clean, and full of warmth, both in ambiance and attitude. Our room was adorable and comfortable, with just the right blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. You can feel the history in the walls, yet everything is so well-maintained and fresh. We would 100% stay here again and will absolutely recommend it to friends and family visiting Victoria. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. A true gem!