The James Pharmacy

323 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475, Old Saybrook, United States

Guest rating: 4.3 / 5

Overview

The James Pharmacy is a laid-back bed-and-breakfast set in a late-18th-century former general store and pharmacy in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Located off Interstate 95 at 323 Main St, it combines historic character with an in-town base for exploring shops, restaurants, and shoreline attractions.

Rooms

Rooms are styled with a more traditional, “old New England” feel, featuring details such as 4-poster beds, exposed beams or brick, and traditional fireplaces fitted with gas fires. In-room entertainment includes flat-screen TVs. Specific rooms are individually named (including a Katharine Hepburn room), reflecting the property’s B&B character.

Dining & On-site Treats

On-site offerings include a restaurant as well as a gelateria/juice bar. Guests also have access to a furnished patio for outdoor sitting.

Location & Nearby Highlights

The inn is about 2 miles from Harveys Beach and about 1 mile from Fort Saybrook Monument Park, making it convenient for both beach time and local history. Nearby points of interest include Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse (~3.8 km) and cultural/day-trip options such as the Florence Griswold Museum (~6.0 km) and the Connecticut River Museum (~7.3 km). For longer outings, Gillette Castle State Park is about 15.8 km away, and Hammonasset Beach State Park is about 15.4 km away.

Best for

Best suited to couples and history-architecture lovers who want a small, character-rich B&B in a late-18th-century building with traditional room features like 4-poster beds and gas fireplaces. It also works well for travelers who prefer to park once and walk to Old Saybrook shops and restaurants, with Harveys Beach a short drive away.

Travel tips

Because it’s off I‑95 and set on Main Street, it’s a practical base for quick drives to shoreline stops like Harveys Beach (~2 miles) and Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse (~3.8 km). If you plan museum and river activities, the Florence Griswold Museum (~6.0 km) and Connecticut River Museum (~7.3 km) are within an easy drive. Guests note that property communication around logistics like parking and check-in can be handled via email/text, which can simplify arrival planning.

What guests say

Across guest feedback, the property is often described as charming and “cute,” with appreciation for the historic feel and the convenience of being close to Old Saybrook shops and dining. Room cleanliness and comfort stand out in comments, including particularly strong praise for bed comfort and for the bathroom quality in a named room. On-site treats get mentioned positively, especially the gelato, and guests note straightforward check-in/out with helpful communication about logistics like parking. Not all experiences are consistently positive: at least one guest reports poor service and a limited breakfast selection.

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