White Swan Inn

White Swan Inn descritpion

Just moments from San Francisco's famed Union Square, this bed and breakfast-style property offers uniquely decorated guest rooms, all furnished with fireplaces, and is within walking distance of major attractions.
Guests at the White Swan Inn can start each day with a hot breakfast and finish the evening at the nightly wine and hors d'oeuvres reception. The hotel also provides free afternoon tea and biscuits as well as wireless internet access.
Nob Hill, Grace Cathedral and Chinatown can all be found only minutes from the White Swan. The Powell Street Cable Car along with the city's financial district are also only a short distance away.
Union Square is a great choice for travelers interested in shopping, restaurants and city trips.

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Facilities of White Swan Inn

Outdoors ：Terrace

Pets ：Pets are not allowed.

Internet ：Free!WiFi is available in all areas and is free of charge.

Parking ：Private parking is available on site (reservation is not needed) and charges apply.

Reviews for White Swan Inn

Review 1：The best hotel in San Francisco I have stayed at. Excellent location, 1.5 blocks from Union Square. Breakfast was wonderful and unfortunately we never got to join other guests for wine in the lounge in the evenings. Staff are really nice and friendly. Will definately stay there again.

Review 2：The mattress was a little too soft

Review 3：Beautiful boutique hotel, recalling the 1900 in San Francisco. Great position to walk to downtown and to the fishermen's wharf.

Review 4：It was fine for us ; don't know how it would on a very hot day as no air con.

Review 5：Location was excellent. The staff were very helpful. Printed my boarding passes, were very responsive to any requests. Breakfast was adequate for what we needed. Cookies or cake always in the lobby very kind. Fireplace was lovely; lots of sinks and facilities in the room. Ask them for a power strip...

Review 6：We booked one night thru bookings.com then added another night later. The rate went from $206 to $360 (before taxes) for the second night. Don't know if it was because the 2nd night was a Saturday - but it was an unpleasant surprise when we checked out.

Review 7：The location is on a relatively quiet street compared to other tourist packed streets but it is walking distance from the Powell St BART station. Plenty of little bars and restaurants available; close to Union Square, walking distance to #5 bus line which takes you all the way to Ocean Beach (Golden Gate Park). Great breakfast and happy hour snacks. The room was great, very comfortable bed, bottled water included, fast hot water, nice shower, older facility but well maintained. No AC in the room but the windows opened and they had a fan available. Rental car station right across the street made it very convenient for our car pickup when we needed it.

Review 8：Bed comfort was so-so. Shower was more of a straight stream.

Review 9：Great location, lovely breakfast, happy hour was a treat after a full day of touring! Staff was attentive and helpful. Valet parking was a blessing.

Review 10：Can get a bit warm in hot weather, although a fan was provided.

Review 11：Quirky guesthouse, great staff and characterful surroundings. Good location. Breakfast in the basement was lovely, and afternoon cookies a nice touch.

Review 12：No bad experience except the room was a little musty when we walked in. Don't let this put you off, just open the windows , air the room and enjoy your stay here , just like we did !

Review 13：The location, friendly staff, food, the quaint room with a very comfortable sitting area. The chance to meet and chat with the other guests during the drinks and nibbles hour. This hotel has such a wonderful feeling to it. Definitely the best hotel we stayed in during our holiday. Thanks all for making it a very enjoyable stay !

Review 14：Kitchen staff were very rude, cranky and not very helpful, my wife is coeliac and wanted some good gluten free option for breakfast. Bed was lumpy and uncomfortable We asked for a early breakfast pack and were provided with a cardboard box with everything thrown in and mixed up, soggy bread, it was inedible Poor security in room, windows opened onto a balcony and fire escape that could be accessed by anyone, resulting in having to keep Windows locked. No a/c, wireless intermittent.

Review 15：It was clean

Review 16：The price, the breakfast, the noise and heat in the street facing non air conditioned room.

Review 17：Location and staff, and the cool treats (cookies, wine, free drinks).

Review 18：The rooms were on the small side and the breakfast is very basic. The the hotel is very expensive for what it is and seems to be charging a premium for old fashioned decor you see everywhere in the UK.

Review 19：Well trained, friendly staff who were extremely helpful

Review 20：Bed not entirely comfortable, very high and a bit lumpy.

Review 21：Lovely little hotel, very conveniently located for all central San Francisco activities. Great hospitality. Fantastic reception staff.

Review 22：Well located near Union Square and Grant Avenue. Property has an "English- 60's" theme. Staff are friendly and helpful. Parking works - remember this is downtown SF.

Review 23：On a warm night our 5th floor room was very warm. It would hp to have screens on windows to keep night bugs and Mosquitos out. This was our only complaint c

Review 24：Staff are very helpful. Wine and breakfast are nice perks. Good location.

Review 25：nothing.

Review 26：Everything! Very helpful and friendly staff, great central location, nice decoration and facilities and free cookies! What more can you ask for? Our room was facing the opposite side of the street, so it was very quiet and a welcome peace after the loud and crowded city streets.

Review 27：Parking is a small pain--have to wait up to 40 minutes for the car.

Review 28：Well appointed; friendly and helpful staff; great morning breakfast and evening wine and "goodies."

Review 29：The rooms were spacious with the softest bed. It was the little extras that made the stay special such as a complementary breakfast and the wine and nibbles early evening meant you chatted with other travellers.

Review 30：Everything about our stay was perfect. Excellent staff, especially Andy, great location, wonderful room and breakfast and wine in the evening with appetizers! Would highly recommend.

Review 31：Nothing

Review 32：Absolutely loved the decor it gave the place a unique character. The fires in the rooms were fabulous the staff were really helpful and the location was fabulous. We will return.

Review 33：Free wine in the afternoon. Decor is 1960s British / Austin Powers funky madness - brilliant. The staff were very friendly, and we loved the room too - very well equipped and comfortable.

Review 34：Loved the room and space. Easily enough room for an extra bed. Quirky decor but I liked it. Free tea and coffee, evening wine and cheese, and breakfast. Great location.

Review 35：Extremely helpful service, great location, yummy breakfast, great atmosphere with mix of old typical Great Britain and early Rock'n'Roll styles, afternoon wine tradition is great too!

Review 36：Lack of A/C might be an issue in hot weather.

Review 37：A friendly welcome, and very helpful staff in this small and unique hotel. Great breakfast and very welcome drinks and nibbles late afternoon. Clean and comfortable room

Review 38：The staff were friendly and obliging. The happy hour wine & appetisers were a welcome opportunity to meet our fellow guests. Despite the Hotel being located near the busy hub off Union Square, it was quiet, comfortable, clean with many quirky features like the old lift. Our stay here grately influenced our enjoyment of San Fransisco.

Review 39：Inn has re-decorated - new pictures, colors, etc., are jarring against the charming décor that the inn originally had. Bright pink walls and Beatles music playing in the breakfast area - unappetizing. Our room had splotches of lime green that did not match the rest of the décor - tiles missing from the bathroom floor, sink that continually dripped. Sorry to see the changes that were made and the "no upkeep" on the rooms.

Review 40：Location of inn to Union Square.

Review 41：No air conditioning and no screens on the windows. Ended up with a couple mosquito bites from leaving the windows open.

Review 42：Great breakfast, quaint feeling.

Review 43：it was all perfect, nothing to complain

Review 44：the hause is unique, wonderful old building, with classic decoration. You feel like going back to the past. The room was large and the bed so comfortable. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful. It is not just the price for downtown SF, this is a very romantic place to stay!

Review 45：Everything was great.

Review 46：Great old boutique hotel in a great old neighborhood. Plenty to see and do. The bones of the building are original and the decor is classy yet whimsical. Staff was courteous, friendly and warm.

Review 47：Shower left a little to be desired, but I wouldn't really say that impacted my stay.

Review 48：If you are looking for a new, modern hotel this may not be for you. I normally like that kind of place myself, but this hotel has character you won't find in those places. Bed was soooo comfy and staff could not do enough to help me during my stay. Room decor may not be to everyone's taste, but it was a nice throwback and the fireplace was a awesome touch. Give it a chance!

Review 49：Unfriendly service at breakfast. we came 9:30 am to breakfast, instead of wishing us a good morning, her main focus was to let everybody know that breakfast ends 10 am. ice-cold eggs ( boiled eggs), no cheese, no ham, no greens, the rest of breakfast was o.k.

Review 50：The location is great. We had a nice double room in the upper floor. Very clean, stuff helpful and friendly, except the lady at breakfast.

Review 51：Due to travel delays I arrived at 2AM and was welcomed and made comfortable immediately. My room was darling and quiet, breakfast was excellent, snacks and wine were great, and the overall decor was charming. I will definitely stay here again the next time I am in the city.

Review 52：Bed is a bit high as for me, but not a big deal.

Review 53：Comfortable place, old but in good condition. Very pleasant stuff. Good breakfast. Not far from Union square.

Review 54：Great location, nice staff, comfortable bed, coffee and tea available any time, nice to meet other guests during the wine and hors d'oevres hour. It felt like visiting a friend's home rather than a hotel.

Review 55：We had a very inconsiderate, group of neighbors, noisy at bedtime for us. Kids playing outside our door at 11:45, showers running midnight and 1:30pm. Could not sleep because of pipe noise.

Review 56：Everything about this room --25 and all the amenities White Swan provides. We're return customers for about half-dozen visits, and love your boutique hotel.

Review 57：Location was good,10 dollar taxi ride to Fishermans Wharf. We walked to the Cable car station and took a scenic route down to Fishermans Wharf. 5 blocks from China town.Older hotel built in 1950 which added to the charm.

Review 58：The price was too steep; valet parking was expensive

Review 59：The fireplace in the room, cookies all day long, breakfast. Staff were helpful with directions, tour bookings.

Review 60：Reception staff very welcoming and helpful, great breakfast, very nice wine served with nibbles from 5pm to 7pm. Great being able to make a cup of tea at anytime with home baked cookies. We had a Deluxe King room, so it was very spacious with a very comfortable bed. Loved the eclectic mix in the decor.

Review 61：Nothing. Everything was wonderful.

Review 62：We were recommended the White Swan Inn from a family member and it did not disappoint. The room was large and lovely. Breakfast was very nice. There was tea, coffee and hot chocolate available all day as well as free bottled water and soft drink in our room. There was also freshly baked cookies each day, apple cider and don't forget happy hour each afternoon. The staff were fantastic and always happy and helpful. Thank you for making our stay in San Francisco so enjoyable.

Review 63：the bed is too high and too soft

Review 64：nicely decorated room with fireplace big size according to downtown standard, if not conference days, the room rate is reasonable

Review 65：Nothing!

Review 66：An incredible retreat in a very busy area of San Francisco. I had some doubts given the photos that I would feel a bit overwhelmed by the floral wallpaper, but the decor was completely charming, including the new integrated with the old. Very large and comfortable room. Breakfast was great, complimentary drinks in the room incredibly appreciated, fireplace so cozy. I would stay here again and again and again. Care and kindness of the staff was fantastic.

Review 67：i would call the neighborhood slightly borderline. they should stock the room with more towels instead of just one per person. i know i could of asked for more - just saying.

Review 68：the room was large, comfortable, and clean both in appearance, and smell. the fireplace was an large added bonus.

Review 69：Having to leave!

Review 70：The staff is very polite and helpful. Very nice breakfast and wine happy hour in the comfy parlor. Love fireplace in room. Rooms are a nice size. Parking is handled very well by staff and parking garage attendants.

Review 71：Can get some noise transfer from other rooms, but all guests on notice, considerate, so not much of an issue

Review 72：Great home-like feel, incl the very pleasant happy hour every evening with comp wine and snacks. As a Hyatt/Hilton road warrior, would take White Swan every time, biz or holiday travel. Met several return visitors, all with same story. Decor eclectic may not suit all tastes, but its pretty well done

Review 73：It was all good NO NEGATIVES

Review 74：Everything. Exceeded moy expectations. Want to come back and stay again. Can not say enough about my Entire stay and experience. WONDERFUL!8!!!!

Review 75：No. Can 't think of something. We loved the lovely rooms.

Review 76：The attention to the details. Little things like the "bar"that in other hotels is guarded like a treasure,at the White Swan theygive you water and refreshments all you need, free cookies and coffee.We had a problem,they helped us even after our check out. Thats a hotel!

Review 77：Bath not in best condition only used shower which was great

Review 78：Old style lift, location, friendly helpful staff, jam on toast and tea, complimentary cookies in reception...complimentary drinks in fridge replaced daily

Review 79：Ambiant music melting with the staff music from the kitchen at breakfast. Noise from the bar across the street and ambulance all night long (hospital nearby)

Review 80：Comfort of the bed, spacious room, 5 à 7 wine and goûter.

Review 81：This hotel is very very good. Value. The breakfast was the best. We did go one night to the happy hour. Fab eats and the wine was very good. I thought that was a very nice touch. Location is ideal.

Review 82：I woke up when the visitor in the next door room turned on the shower at 6:30am but I was about to wake up soon anyway. I would still return to the hotel when I go back next year.

Review 83：The hotel was in a great location, just a 10 minute walk from Powell and Market street. The staff was very friendly. The room was very clean and the breakfast was delicious! They had great food. A good variety to suit everyone's taste buds!

Review 84：Not being familiar with San Francisco, we were initially surprised at the climb up so close to Union Square. Not really a problem.

Review 85：A charming small hotel with fascinating décor. Friendly and helpful staff, comfortable rooms with no noise issues. More than adequate breakfast and we loved the afternoon wine and nibbles in the lounge or garden area.

Review 86：When the drunks spill out onto the street from the bar opposite this hotel, you'll be glad you grabbed a pair of ear plugs from the front desk at check in.

Review 87：I guess it's a good enough place to stay, for the city. There's no A/C, so don't even think of coming when it's warm weather.

Review 88：The piped music in the dinning room & lounge, it wasn't so much the music or the volume just that it was the same tracks over and over and over... again. Come on guys, for a selection of British music we have a hell of a lot more that your selection and believe it or not we have moved on from the Beatles.

Review 89：If you're looking for somewhere to stay in San Francisco and want to avoid the usual chains then this is your spot. It's very central, very friendly, clean, excellent wifi and a wonderful wine, tea (coffee) and home made snacks at 5pm where you can meet the other guests (or just sit in the corner and drink). I stayed here on my first trip to San Fran back in the late 80s and have been trying to get a room for years since. I visit San Francisco monthly on business and have done for years, it's alway been booked weeks/months in advance but was thrilled to get a room last week, I wasn't disappointed. Book early!

Review 90：Excellent location near Union Square, buses and cable cars. Friendly helpful staff. Free soft drinks in room. Good breakfast. Free wine and interesting and generous snacks in evening.

Review 91：Well, the bed matress is really uncomfortable. If you are alone, you may not feel it, but a couple will never sleep well. The matress is extremely soft (in a bad way!), so much that it moulds your body in such a way that you sleep in an awful position the whole night.... it is a shame, because everything is great, but I really couldn't sleep comfortably at all. I really felt like sleeping on the carpet as a solution!

Review 92：I loved the place, cozy, well located, nice warm team, willing to help, clean rooms, lots of space, and the valet parking always worked great! I'd love to say it is 100% perfect, but....

Review 93：The room got a bit stuffy, but there was a fan which helped a lot. Late at night we could hear the young bar crowd from across the street. The bar is worth checking out if you are into beer and great appetizer menu. Go early to avoid crowd.

Review 94：The staff was very friendly and helpful with advice on bus routes. The breakfast area is charming and the food was nice. It was pleasant visiting with guests from around the world at cocktail hour. It also helped out our budget by having wine and appetizers provided. Our room was large and comfortable.

Review 95：Can't think of anything that I didn't like. About the only thing that comes to mind is if you stay there, ask for a room that doesn't face the street. Much quieter that way.

Review 96：The White Swan was excellent! Walking distance to local transportation, and the staff was wonderful. A great hot breakfast every morning, and Wine, cheese, and snacks at 5 pm. Very clean, with nice big bedrooms. No problems at all.

Review 97：Liked everything.

Review 98：Everything. English country inn meets 1960s Carnaby Street in this lovely quirky hotel with fabulous bedrooms and spacious sitting rooms. Wonderful breakfasts and complimentary wine and hors d'oeurves every afternoon/evening. Lovely staff.

Review 99：the evening aperitif lacked of quality, but it wasnt so important at the end.

Review 100：atmosphere like being in the 50-60s. Charming! And the staff was awesome, always trying to help and being nice. Breakfast is good. The best thing was the confortable bed, large room and the wonderful fireplace.

Review 101：'Didn't like' is a bit strong. A bit more variety in the breakfast offerings would be welcome, but the always-available fresh fruit and croissant certainly suffice! Bottom line: I'd stay here anytime!

Review 102：The location is excellent, but best of all...you have the sense of staying at a favorite friend's place! Great breakfasts, comfortable, very well-outfitted rooms, and very good staff.

Review 103：Location to go to most places is inconvenient as is not near to any train stations

Review 104：1) the room has a cosy atmosphere with a nice fireplace that makes a homely experience 2) the breakfast provided is nice & we'll enough

Review 105：The noise from party animals in the early hours of the morning outside

Review 106：The room, the huge bed, the quirkiness of the hotel, the location, the staff, the excellent wifi, the wine reception in the evenings

Review 107：- Breakfast had good intentions, but unsuccesful implementation. They were very slow to replenish finished items and they stopped replenishing by 9.30, while the claimed closure time was 10.00 - Noise from the road

Review 108：- Location - Overall Character - Spacious room - Reliable Wi-Fi - Complimentary afternoon wine buffet - Helpful front desk

Review 109：May not suit customers who want modern facilities.

Review 110：Relaxed approach in old but comfortable amenities, with additional touches that give it a unique character. Quite well positioned for Union Square etc.

Review 111：Nothing to dislike

Review 112：Fantastic staff, especially Brendan who was very helpful and informative. Loved our room and the overall decor of the hotel. Great location.

Review 113：none

Review 114：the location is good. it takes 5 minutes to go to Powell street (good for shopping). the staff is very friendly, and the breakfast is delicious. they also have big room and comfortable bed. It's definitely an excellent hotel which we would like to visit again.

Review 115：Loved the home away from home comfort. The breakfast in the morning and the glass of wine and pre-dinner nibbles in the evening. And so close to everything.

Review 116：We arrived late after letting them know that and stood helplessly outside as the front door was locked and there was no one around. Eventually a girl opened for us. The lift wasn't working and we lugged our cases to the fifth floor! To be fair, the girl did take one heavy case up. After that initial bumpy start, we really enjoyed our stay.

Review 117：We enjoyed staying in this hotel as the position was very good for exploring San Francisco. It was a safe, bustling area, close to all forms of transport. The room was very comfortable and the bed was amazing! The little touches like the coffe machine and free soft drinks were great. The breakfast was excellent, with fresh fruit and a good spread. We enjoyed the wine and snacks in the evenings.

Review 118：Noise from the neighbors upstairs...heavy footstep at night could wake you up. Need better noise insulation.

Review 119：Location close to everything, but out of the way, room size and comfort in an older charming building. Efficient and friendly staff.

Review 120：Very friendly staff and great location.

Review 121：fireplace in room, fireplace in dining room, wine and cheese bar, cookies, breakfast buffet

Review 122：don't come here, if to many people start coming here the prices will go through the roof.

Review 123：Great place great location

Review 124：None of it

Review 125：All of it

Review 126：Homely rooms

Review 127：Everything was fantastic. It has a lot of charm and the feel of a classic English hotel. I loved it! I will be staying again

Review 128：Breakfast was great and included with stay. Wine and cheese every evening was lovely

Review 129：Drafty Place, Bed too soft, tiny bath

Review 130：Location, Free Coffee & Tea all Day, Gasfireplace, good breakfast

The Fine Print

Upon check-in photo identification and credit card are required. All special requests are subject to availability upon check-in. Special requests cannot be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.