10/10
Reviewed May 3, 2026We Had a memorable meal from chef Sebastian
Nothing as better than expected
English
Hotels in Saint Arnaud9.4Exceptional(270 reviews) 
75% match
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33% match
Tophouse Historical Inn Bed and breakfast
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Amenities
About this hotel
Charming Historical Inn with Modern Amenities
Terrace, Bar, and Shared Lounge: Enjoy the picturesque views from our terrace, unwind with a drink at the cozy bar, or socialize in the shared lounge.
Comfortable Accommodation: Each unit is equipped with a kettle and offers a shared bathroom. Relax in comfort with provided bed linen and towels during your stay.
Outdoor Activities and Dining: Take advantage of barbecue facilities, unwind in the garden, or have a delightful picnic in the picnic area.
Experience the charm of Tophouse Historical Inn Bed and Breakfast. Book now for a memorable stay!
Important Information
A deposit may be required at the property.
Stay Details
Check-in from
02:00 PM
Check-out by
10:30 AM
Parking
FREE
Children
Not allowed
Pets
Not allowed
Amenities
WiFi available
Free WiFi
Parking
Free Parking
Non-smoking rooms
Restaurant
Heating
Terrace
Garden
BBQ facilities
Laundry
Bar
Fax/photocopying
Non-smoking throughout
Private parking
Designated smoking area
Accessible parking
Street parking
Shared lounge/TV area
Board games/puzzles
Special diet menus - on request
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Wine/champagne
Staff adhere to local safety protocols
Laundry washed per local authority guidelines
Guest rooms disinfected between stays
Cleaning standards that are effective against Coronavirus
Hand sanitizer in guest room and key areas
Fire extinguishers
First aid kit available
Sanitized tableware & silverware
Guests can opt-out any cleaning services during stay
Smoke alarms
Shared stationery like menus, pens are removed
Guest room sealed after cleaning
Key access
Room Types
Budget Double Room
Up to 2 guestsDouble bed (131-150 cm wide)
This double room features a shared bathroom and a tea and coffee maker. The unit offers 1 bed.
Sleeps
Up to 2 guests
2 adults
Beds
Double bed (131-150 cm wide)
In-room amenities
Coffee/tea makerElectric kettleLinenToilet paper
Queen Room with Garden View
Up to 2 guestsDouble bed (131-150 cm wide)
This double room has a shared bathroom and a tea and coffee maker. The unit has 1 bed.
Sleeps
Up to 2 guests
2 adults
Beds
Double bed (131-150 cm wide)
Room details
Garden View
In-room amenities
Coffee/tea makerElectric kettleLinenToilet paper
Twin Room with Garden View
Up to 2 guests2 Twin bed (90-130 cm wide)
This twin room features a shared bathroom and a tea and coffee maker. The unit offers 2 beds.
Sleeps
Up to 2 guests
2 adults
Beds
2 Twin bed (90-130 cm wide)
Room details
Garden View
In-room amenities
Coffee/tea makerElectric kettleLinenToilet paper
Queen Room with Garden View
Up to 2 guestsDouble bed (131-150 cm wide)
This double room provides a shared bathroom, and a tea and coffee maker. The unit offers 1 bed.
Sleeps
Up to 2 guests
2 adults
Beds
Double bed (131-150 cm wide)
Room details
Garden View
In-room amenities
Coffee/tea makerElectric kettleLinenToilet paper
Ask about this hotel
Get answers about amenities, policies, and more — e.g. “Are pets allowed?” or “Is parking available?”
Guest reviews(270 total)
Provider-sourced guest reviews.
10/10
Reviewed Apr 22, 2026The hosts (including Marney the dog), the history, the views
Nothing really!
10/10
Reviewed Apr 17, 2026The meals were excellent with the chef attending the table as well, to discuss the meals and to chat. The proprietors were so lovely/friendly, informative, helpful - well the whole stay was just brilliant. We stayed in the old/historic section of the facility. If you like that sort of thing then it is a very special venue.
Nothing
10/10
Reviewed Apr 16, 2026Amazing experience staying at the stunning historical inn, with some absolutely delicious breakfast! Thank you to Helen and Clint for their incredible hospitality!
10/10
Reviewed Apr 2, 2026Beautiful location, spotless accommodation and wonderful host. Can't wait to return :)
Absolutely nothing. Faultless!
7/10
Reviewed Mar 25, 2026Historic home in a quiet area with helpful hosts. Beautiful grounds with flowers and animals. Tea available in the common area. Shared bathrooms were new.
Our rooms were small and adjacent to the communal eating table such that sleeping late wasn't possible. Sand flies made sitting outside a challenge.
10/10
Reviewed Mar 18, 2026Location and views, historic aspects and the cutest little pub I have ever seen.
Nothing
10/10
Reviewed Mar 15, 2026Everything amaziing from dinner to breakfast to the tiny pub.
8/10
Reviewed Mar 15, 2026Accueil très chaleureux de nos hôtes. Séjour d'une nuit très convivial et repas délicieux (diner succulent et très bon petit-dejeuner). La propriété est vraiment magnifique et très bien entretenue.
10/10
Reviewed Mar 15, 2026I didn't expect having a close-to-Michelin star experience with the dinner presented at Tophouse. The Polish chef is a real crazy one (in the best way possible)
9/10
Reviewed Mar 4, 2026Friendly management. Great view from the terrace at the bar. Generous breakfast included.
9/10
Reviewed Feb 22, 2026Great host, great food, everyone went over and beyond expectation
9/10
Reviewed Feb 13, 2026A unique stay in every sense of the word. Loads of history, a charming old house, Helen and Clint the owners, the animals on the farm, the dinner,the smallest oldest bar in NZ etc etc. We loved the experience from A-Z!!
10/10
Reviewed Feb 13, 2026The owner was amazing and friendly. She has a lovely B&B. I definitely would stay there again. The little house is the smallest bar in New Zealand. If you go into town chk out Lake Rotoiti. This one of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 27, 2026A great location to stay with stunning view from this historic Inn. Lovely garden too. Helen and Clint were the perfect hosts at the Inn with smallest bar in NZ we were told. Ordered an evening meal one evening with choice of 1,2 or 3 courses. Excellent experience.
Nothing really we knew the toilets and showers were separate due it being an historic building. Just meant a small adventure at night !
10/10
Reviewed Jan 25, 2026Wow! The place was historic, charming,confortable.. There was everything : breakfast, heatedbed,shower,shampoo, towels, thé hosts were magic dooing everything so you feel understood and feel great. They helped me with calls I could not make, laundry, food etc good and interesting talks. Lovely person and place
9/10
Reviewed Jan 20, 2026The property is very beautiful, as are the hosts. Amazing views. The room was comfortable & clean. Would highly recommend.
9/10
Reviewed Jan 20, 2026We liked the historical content, cleanliness and ambience. Helen was a welcoming host and the breakfast was excellent.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 19, 2026Amazing views, lovely host and a great dinner. Free upgrade also! Loved the alpacas
10/10
Reviewed Jan 19, 2026Es sin duda el mejor sitio en el que me he alojado en Nueva Zelanda. La ubicación es increíble, en pleno parque natural con unas vistas preciosas. Los anfitriones muy amables y el desayuno muy rico y abundante. Helen hace unos huevos revueltos con beicon riquísimos. En fin todo genial. Para recomendar 100%
10/10
Reviewed Jan 18, 2026Tres jolie bâtisse historique au milieu de la campagne, accueil chaleureux, diner et petit déjeuner mémorables
Rien
9/10
Reviewed Jan 17, 2026Fantastic position, beautiful English style garden, welcoming hosts.
Nothing
10/10
Reviewed Jan 16, 2026Gorgeous place in a fabulous setting. Beautiful garden and amazing views.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 10, 2026Magnifique cottage.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 6, 2026Very kind host, delicious dinner, beautiful view and cozy atmosphere!! Wish we could stay longer
10/10
Reviewed Jan 5, 2026Awesome hosts, thank you Helen and Clint, we loved staying at the TopHouse and learning about the area, history etc. Your place is a piece of heaven thanks to your care, loved your garden and the stunning location. We will be back! Thank you:-)
10/10
Reviewed Jan 5, 2026Beautiful house and super friendly owners, felt right at home! Also, the dinner by the Polish chef was outstanding, a must do experience!
We should have stayed longer
10/10
Reviewed Dec 17, 2025Beautiful inside and amazing gardens outside. Stunning views
9/10
Reviewed Nov 19, 2025Quiet and peaceful location with dramatic views across valley to snow topped mountains. Host Helen very attentive and helpful.
Nothing to report.
10/10
Reviewed Nov 14, 2025On arrival we were offered a free upgrade from a room to a cottage. Can not praise our host highly enough. The cottage was so well equipped, comfy and sparkling clean. Beautiful views and pretty little well kept gardens by each cottage.
10/10
Reviewed Oct 11, 2025Casa muy bien cuidada con varios apartamentos anexos en mitad del campo, con vistas impresionantes a la montaña y rodeada de naturaleza y tranquilidad . La anfitriona es genial, super amable y atenta . Las instalaciones nuevas y muy limpias .Nos ofreció gratuitamente una habitación mejor que la que teníamos contratada porque se le quedaba libre . El desayuno maravilloso, tostadas, cereales , fruta, huevos bacon y salchichas, una gran variedad de café y té . Super recomendable !!
Todo estupendo
10/10
Reviewed Oct 7, 20252 course, fruit etc then bacon and eggs on toast
9/10
Reviewed Sep 4, 2025We were looked after superbly by the hostess. Fascinating history and the bar is a treat.
10/10
Reviewed May 28, 2025Amazing place to stay. The owners were so lovely. The location was so beautiful and the cabins so cosy! Had the best time
Absoutely nothing - it was amazing
9/10
Reviewed Apr 29, 2025Very friendly and helpful hosts, comfortable and clean.
9/10
Reviewed Apr 27, 2025Lovely home and great location
10/10
Reviewed Apr 24, 2025Everything was so high quality - beds were clean and soft, excellent services, beautiful views, Helen and Clint were generous and attentive ensuring the best stay was had. Fabulous way to end a holiday and hopefully I will be back one day.
There was absolutely nothing that I could dislike!
10/10
Reviewed Apr 23, 2025Incredibly peaceful location. The room and facilities were excellent. The hosts were extremely friendly and made us feel right at home. They were so accommodating and we could not have felt any more relaxed and comfortable. We spent part of the evening star gazing and having drinks in the garden. This is one of the best hotel/BnB experiences we have ever had, and if we are ever in New Zealand again we will make a point to go back. It is absolutely fantastic!
Everything was fantastic.
10/10
Reviewed Apr 13, 2025Beautiful peaceful location. The historic hotel is surrounded by lovely gardens which really add to the ambience. Hosts Clint and Helen were so friendly and welcoming, and Helen cooked us a delicious breakfast. Loved our stay, hope to return.
Nothing - it was great!
8/10
Reviewed Apr 8, 2025Great breakfast, friendly and helpful hosts, lovely relaxing grounds, interesting history of the place.
8/10
Reviewed Apr 8, 2025A very cute and historical inn with an excellent view of the mountainous region below. Helen was very friendly and helpful throughout our stay. Breakfast was plentiful, with a nice mix of cereals, toast and tinned fruit, along with an option of egg and bacon.
The room itself it a little small, with some communal areas, but in the evening, this area was utilised for dinner guests - as this was situated right outside our bedroom, it made us feel very awkward and stuck in our small room.
10/10
Reviewed Apr 4, 2025Simoly wonderful!!! Thanks a lot!
9/10
Reviewed Mar 30, 2025We stayed for only one night as a base to explore the Nelson Lakes. Such a charming, historical property, it was very interesting to read all about the history of the place. The only downside was that the Budget room was really tiny, so for a longer stay we would recommend booking a different room if possible. However, Helen and Clint are wonderful and warm hosts; we really enjoyed our chat in the evening in the smallest pub in NZ and they also helped us a lot with logistics for our overnight trip to Angelus Hut - thank you once again 👍🏻. The cooked breakfast in the morning was delicious and although we worried a bit when booking about the shared bathroom situation, this was no problem at all. The 2 bathrooms were shared with two other rooms (so there was no queue) and very clean.
10/10
Reviewed Mar 26, 2025History
10/10
Reviewed Mar 16, 2025Breakfast was great. Hosts were friendly and helpful.
9/10
Reviewed Mar 6, 2025The breakfast was good. The location had a beautiful view of the mountains.
Although there was a good size comon sitting area, the room was small...perhaps because it was a historic drovers inn.
9/10
Reviewed Mar 3, 2025Beautiful location. Very friendly and accommodating hosts. Quirky in a fun way.
The bedrooms were a bit small, but having access to the lounge area made up for it.
10/10
Reviewed Feb 21, 2025A very interesting and comfortable historical inn. It’s location was great with fantastic views of the surrounding area. We had a great welcome and were soon offered drinks from NZ’s smallest but well stocked bar before sitting down with “ new friends” to a Michelin style meal. Breakfast was delicious with an unlimited choice of teas and coffees. Helen and Clint were great hosts.
Nothing
9/10
Reviewed Feb 10, 2025Thus is one for history buffs and for those who love the country flavour of the gardens and paddocks. Very good bathroom facilities and really well thought out furnishings and presentation of the “period” feel for the rooms and common areas.
Only that it requires a car to access the Lake Nelson National Park some 6 kms away. Its seclusion is its appeal as well as a very slight retraction.
10/10
Reviewed Feb 4, 2025Everything was just perfect, Helen and Miles were excellent hosts, and the stay exceeded by far our expectations. We can especially recommend the dinner with the Polish chef Sebastian: excellent meal with witty comments from the chef himself. If we have a chance we'll be happy to come again
10/10
Reviewed Feb 3, 2025A wonderful historical home with warm hospitality and outstanding views. Helen and Clint were very engaging as hosts. Delicious dinner which I’d highly recommend you book!
Nothing!
10/10
Reviewed Jan 26, 2025I stayed at the Inn for four days as I explored the Nelson Lakes area. This was my first visit to the area. I liked the laid-back vibe of both the area and the Inn. The hosts were wonderful and provided great advice on where to hike and visit in the area. The location was spectacular, the property was immaculate, and the bed especially was very comfortable (like a big marshmallow). I also enjoyed a delicious farm-to-table meal one evening with fellow guests that was very fun and lively. Everything was top-notch. I would return in a heartbeat.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 25, 2025Couple that own it are special friendly and helpful having tea with overseas tourists was the highlight can't say one bad thing
Ns
10/10
Reviewed Jan 18, 2025The breakfast was very generous
A summer duvet
9/10
Reviewed Jan 14, 2025Great spot good views. Slightly isolated but suited us. Hosts were wonderful, amazing old bar with an abundance of memorabilia. Good hearty country breakfast. Would recommend staying enjoyed our overnight stay and the chef prepared diner we experienced. Thank you Sebastian, Helen and Clint.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 14, 2025Lovely accommodating hosts. Could not do enough for us.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 7, 2025Our hosts Helen and Broughy were welcoming, super accommodating, friendly and relaxed. The food was superb.
10/10
Reviewed Jan 1, 2025Stunning quality
It was perfect for me
10/10
Reviewed Dec 14, 2024This place is incredible; a beautiful historic building, a great location with a great view of the mountains. Helen and Clint were incredibly friendly and couldn’t do enough to help, the breakfast was great. The room I had was spotless and extremely comfortable. The bar is amazing, although sadly I was too tired to make the most of it after a couple of days walking.
9/10
Reviewed Dec 11, 2024Hospitality and facilities
All ok
10/10
Reviewed Dec 9, 2024A perfect place to stay to explore the Nelson Lakes area. Super clean and comfortable with lots of history and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Really lovely hosts who even let us feed the alpacas! Would highly recommend.
10/10
Reviewed Dec 7, 2024Friendly welcoming hosts, good breakfast, excellent dinners, beautiful garden & great historic character. Convenient to Nelson Lakes many walks & activities. Stayed in B&B room which was fine for us. Chalets are a nice option
10/10
Reviewed Nov 21, 2024Brilliant place, wish we had booked for longer. Highly recommend
9/10
Reviewed Nov 14, 2024Hosts were kind and hospitable and happy to give their time chatting in the tiny bar which is well worth a visit. Great location with amazing views of the mountains and only a short drive into St Arnaud.
Nothing
10/10
Reviewed Oct 31, 2024I enjoyed a rainy afternoon and night here. There was a fire going in the communal area, and some good books on the bookshelf. It felt so luxurious to enjoy some time here relaxing. The breakfast was good too.
9/10
Reviewed Sep 30, 2024Beautiful, peaceful location. Stunning scenery. Lovely grounds and very clean.
8/10
Reviewed Sep 30, 2024stunning views, great breakfast
10/10
Reviewed Sep 23, 2024Everything especially the fire place on a cold damp day
10/10
Reviewed Sep 16, 2024Friendly hosts and comfortable fully featured accommodation. Great location with beautiful views of the hills in and around the Nelson Lakes National park.
Nothing to not like.
8/10
Reviewed Jul 19, 2024Great hospitality, friendly owners, comfy bed, accommodation with loads of character, very good breakfast provided. Loved the open fire. Suggest bathrobes available for guests as the bathrooms and toilets were some distance from the bedrooms.
10/10
Reviewed Jul 2, 2024Cosy, well-equipped cottage with beautiful views of the mountains and sheep grazing in the fields. The hosts were very helpful and friendly.
10/10
Reviewed Jun 27, 2024Great breakfast. Lovely fire place. Comfortable beds and great shower. The host always made sure we had everything we needed. Will definitely stay again.
Nothing
8/10
Reviewed Jun 20, 2024Beautiful scenery in a stunning location. A quick drive to St Arnaud & Lake Rotoiti. Loved the ambience of the Tophouse Historic Homestead. Very homely & inviting with amazing fine dining & a snug bar. Great fireside relaxation.
Woke to a frosty morning so a relit fire in the dining room would've been appreciated!
9/10
Reviewed Jun 6, 2024the views are fantastic looking across to the mountains, and it is very quiet, being in a country setting
no complaints from us
10/10
Reviewed Jun 5, 2024a historic gem being used for people to stay in. Gorgeous outlook in the country, interesting and lovely host, amazing food and comfy quiet accommodation.
8/10
Reviewed May 31, 2024Really good breakfast Really confortable bed
A bit expensive for what it is
10/10
Reviewed Apr 24, 2024It was a historical Inn lovingly restored to incorporate a lot of the history of the building. The room was very comfortable with a beautiful rural view. The shared spaces were spotlessly clean and the roaring fire in the dining area gave the place a cosy feel. Helen and Clint were so friendly and hospitable and Helen’s breakfast was very generous. The dinner cooked by the local chef, Sebastian, was also excellent. We both really enjoyed socialising over shared meals with other guests too.
Nothing at all.
9/10
Reviewed Apr 21, 2024The evening meals were perfect. As vegetarians we often get little choice but the wonderful chef spoke to us about each meal so we could decide if anything wasn't suitable. Our host and hostess were really welcoming, knowledgeable about the history of the homestead, and the classic motor boat in the garage! Relaxed ambiance, marvellous views, cheerful bird song and friendly animals gave us a great start to our holiday.
10/10
Reviewed Apr 10, 2024We had a lovely time at Tophouse Inn, we really enjoyed spending time with Helen and Clint! We had the Inn to ourselves with them (do not miss the chance to have a beer in the smallest bar in NZ!) and enjoyed a great dinner cooked by their chef Sebastian. They have done a great job restoring and maintaining this gem in a beautiful location. We would definitely recommend staying here for any travellers passing by the Nelson lakes. Bathrooms and bedrooms were exceptionally clean. They had the fires on to keep the place warm.
Nothing to comment!
8/10
Reviewed Apr 4, 2024Lovely historic house - where we experienced the hospitality of times gone by. Friendly hosts
9/10
Reviewed Apr 2, 2024Personal welcome from the owner, lovely gardens and outlook, cozy open fires in the evening.
Guest Feedback
Feedback themes are sourced from guest reviews provided by our data provider.
What guests love
- •Beautiful views
- •Attentive hosts
- •Sparkling clean facilities
Areas to consider
- •None reported
Cleanliness
9.33/10The cottage was sparkling clean and well cared for, as mentioned by several guests.
Service
9.61/10Guests highlighted the attentiveness and helpfulness of the hosts.
Location
9.55/10Beautiful views and a peaceful location mentioned in multiple reviews.
Room Quality
9.5/10The rooms were comfortable, well equipped, and guests appreciated the free upgrades.
Amenities
9.13/10Facilities were new and very clean, as per guests' remarks.
Value for Money
9.09/10Guests felt the offerings justified the price point, especially with free upgrades and breakfast.
Food and Beverage
9.44/10Breakfast was highly praised, offering a variety of options.
Overall Experience
9.51/10Guests expressed a desire to return, indicating a very high overall satisfaction.