The Lancaster Hotel, Houston, Texas

Watch a Video of the Lancaster Hotel Up Close

Small Boutique Hotel Big on Elegance in Downtown Houston
by Carl Burnham

Situated in the midst of the Theatre District at the corner of Texas and Louisiana Avenue, the Lancaster Hotel has a charming old style aura of a stately British manor.

When first entering the hotel, we were greeted warmly by the valet and staff. We ventured past an attractive bouquet of flowers adorning an antique table as we made our way to the front desk.

The lobby is tastefully appointed with inviting colors with the walls lined with oil paintings, with antiques, sofas, chairs, chandelier and two story columns. Leading newspapers are provided, with a concierge on hand to assist, and an Internet workstation area provided to the side. Brass staircases lead to the second level, with balcony that overlooks the open lobby area. Three private business and event meeting rooms are available on the second level, with spacing to accommodate up to 150 guests. Valet parking is available on-site from $30 per overnight stay. A complete hotel renovation of the guest rooms, restaurant, and public areas was completed in 2009.

The Lancaster Hotel has 84 guest rooms and 9 large suites available on 12 stories, ranging from a Deluxe Queen, Deluxe King, or Deluxe Suite.

Our Deluxe King room on the 12th floor included a plush king-sized two-poster bed with down duvets pillows, armoire with large TV with cable, CD player, stocked refrigerator with mini bar, a living area, executive desk, radio/alarm clock with nature sounds, two-line cordless phone (with voice mail and free local and toll free calls), sofa, chairs, clothes valet stands, flowery curtains and heavy drapes. Our small windows provided great views of the street below and area buildings.

The free Wi-fi Internet was fast, and is available in all areas of the hotel. A complementary Houston Chronicle newspaper is delivered to your door each morning.

Upon our arrival, there were fresh cut flowers, fresh ice, with our bed covers turned down with chocolate treats, and soft music playing. A double door closet includes a chest of drawers, bath robes, iron, ironing board, and extra blanket.

The bathroom included a marble countertop with fresh cut flowers, coffee maker with coffee, makeup mirror, and hair dryer. The bathtub/shower area was roomy, with Lather bath amenities provided that include yuzu and bergamot with a fresh citrus scent.

Available for guests on a 24 hour basis, the Fitness Room includes numerous cardio and free weight exercise equipment. A nearby fitness center is also available for a discount.

We dined for breakfast at the The Bistro in the Lancaster Hotel. I enjoyed the pancakes that came with fresh berries and honey syrup with my coffee. The Head Chef, Jamie Zelko, recently voted Best Upcoming Chef by My Table Magazine, uses Gulf Coast influences in designing meals. In room dining is also available on a 24 hour basis.

The Lancaster Hotel offers several appealing packages with a romantic flair that includes dining in the Bistro and a night at the local theatre. Visit their website for current Lancaster Hotel Special Packages.

The Lancaster Hotel is a very short walk to popular downtown attractions that include Minute Maid Park to see the Houston Astros, the Houston Convention Center, the Houston Symphony at Jones Hall, Alley Theatre, the Wortham Center, museums, area restaurants, dancing (The Venue for the younger crowd), and bars. Complementary town car service is also provided within the downtown Houston area. IAH-George Bush Intercontinental Airport is just 20 miles south of the Lancaster Hotel.

We would like to thank the Lancaster Hotel staff for their hospitality and for assisting with our feature.

The Lancaster Hotel Map
701 Texas Avenue
Houston, Texas 77002
1-866-940-1794