Somerset Bed & Breakfast – Your Private Retreat
111 Front St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0 | Copyright © 2023 Somerset Bed & Breakfast. All Rights Reserved.
License #: 002-2021
The Residence
Somerset Bed and Breakfast has redefined the Bed and Breakfast experience. Located directly on Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Niagara River, Somerset caters to a very distinguished clientele. Offering you a gourmet breakfast in our beautiful dining room, the residence also features a large living area for guest to enjoy, as well as a variety of outdoor common areas for an afternoon glass of wine or a drink from our complimentary bar while overlooking the lake and perhaps an afternoon regatta. Somerset has three spacious suites, all with private terraces and unobstructed views of Toronto, the United States and Lake Ontario. The residence was completely renovated in 2022. Under original ownership since 1989, with Somerset it is not just a place to stay but a lasting memory.
Your Host
Darren Byer joined the Somerset family in March 2022, he studied business administration at the University of Guelph and wine with the International Sommelier guild. He started his career in hospitality and has been working in the Niagara Region for the past 25 years. He gained valuable knowledge of wine and service in his 10+ years with Andrew Peller Limited at Trius and Peller Estates Wineries. From there he spent 10 years at “AG Inspired Cuisine” in Niagara Falls. After 10 years at AG and just before the Covid19 pandemic he decided to take a few months off to travel and enjoy life. This new journey enables him to combine his years of hospitality experience with his appreciation of food and wine to deliver a premium guest experience.
History
Somerset is situated on the original site of the Queen’s Royal Hotel. The original hotel, built in 1868, was known as one of the best hotels in North America. It was frequented by wealthy tourists from Canada, the United States and abroad, and was the site for many social gatherings. The Queen’s Royal Hotel was demolished in 1930 when tourism to the area declined. At that time, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake purchased the property and turned it into a park. In 1988 this site was purchased by the then-owners of the Prince of Wales Hotel. They then built Somerset to host their premier guests. After selling the Prince of Wales in 2000, the house remained with the family and has become the breathtakingly beautiful residence you see today.
Our Services
Whether you are joining us for a romantic weekend, an anniversary, or a cultural experience, we will take care of everything from your dinner reservations, Shaw tickets, a carriage ride, or a bike tour through the wineries. With the ability to house small groups, Somerset is also able to provide on-site experiences, such as: wine-whiskey tastings, yoga retreats, brainstorming sessions, and small reunions.
