I had the pleasure of staying at the Henry Derby house for three nights in October. (Oct 23rd to the 26th, got very lucky finding a place) We arrived in town a little early, we got help finding a good spot to park, than our keys and some good information on how to get around and the "hot spots". From the minute I walked in the Henry Derby House everyone was VERY friendly and polite. Our first walk into town I was blown away how close we were to everthing! We stayed in the RED room, LOVED IT, It was very cozy&comfortable and I felt right at home. Private bathroom, and a view of the garden at a reasonable price. I looked forward to coffee and breakfast every morning with Peg. She would sit with us and talk about what we did and gave us great suggestions on things to do. She was very enjoyable to talk to and a very nice women. The house was clean and just BEAUTIFUL. I loved my stay in Salem and I couldnt have found a better place to stay, really added to the whole trip. First time at a B&B and I loved it. Will be back!

My wife and I recently traveled to Salem, Mass. After a lot of deliberation we decided to stay at the Henry Derby House in Salem. The rates were reasonable and Peg Carmada, the face of the B & B, was very friendly and accommodating on the phone. We initially reserved for 3 nights but added a 4th night only about 2 weeks in advance (we were staying mid-week just before the peak season) and Peg said she would make sure to squeeze us in to insure that we would not have to switch accommodations after the first night. In fact, Peg was very intent on making sure we were in the same room throughout the 4 nights even though the room we reserved was already booked for the 4th night just to make sure it was convenient.

When we showed up there was some confusion regarding our extra night stay (Peg had other guests who changed their reservations last minute like us and had us confused) and Peg was not there to greet us. We had no problem getting a hold of her and she recommended several restaurants we could go to eat at (it was dinner time and we had been driving all day) and arranged to meet us after dinner. When we got back from dinner Peg was there and she not only made sure that we had a room to stay in she upgraded us for the night to make amends (something we did not ask for but appreciated) with no extra charge. We ended up loving the suite she put us in so much we stayed there for the duration of our stay (it is truly an apartment and not a suite - it is very spacious with a beautiful private garden).

Throughout the visit Peg was there offering all sorts of advice about attractions and places to eat and each and every recommendation was not only spot on but never once were we disappointed. She had some very good ideas regarding how to parcel up touring Salem as well as getting around which we not only took advantage of but really valued since it made getting to all the various sights much easier and we could pack more events in. On top of that Peg is a wonderful hostess who really took an interest in creating a homelike and inviting atmosphere at the B & B. Not only was it great to chat with and get to know the other guests but Peg and her family are blessed with that infamous New England charm.

With respect to the accommodations it was very clean and secure. The location is right on the fringe of the Waterfront district (two blocks west of Washington Street) and everything is within a 20 - 30 minute walk...if you take your time. We were very surprised that not only was our room cleaned every day but our dirty dishes were cleaned for us - we did not expect it but really appreciated it.

Last but not least we would also suggest there is truth to the rumour that the Inn is haunted. We first heard the story of Sara (a maid who passed away from pneumonia many years ago) cleaning and tucking people in while on the Haunted Footsteps tour but had some experiences with the sounds of "sweeping" in the middle of the night and having the sheets tucked up to our noses on at least one occasions (something neither my wife nor I do). At the very least it makes for a good story. :)

We will definitely book with Peg again when we next go back to Salem.

It was a real authentic Bed & Breakfast. Close to all the Salem attractions. The house was very clean and nice. Peg was so helpful and very nice! Will go back soon!

If you plan on visiting Salem, the Henry Derby House is the place to stay. All of the attractions are a short and safe walking distance away and Peg and her staff are the best!!