The Duke Of Marlborough Hotel Russell Nearby photoThe Duke Of Marlborough Hotel Russell Exterior photoThe Duke Of Marlborough Hotel Russell Exterior photo

The Duke Of Marlborough, Russell

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From$95 /night
Check-in
04Sept
Check-out
05Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

35 The Strand, Russell, 0202
-
Next to the harbour
Great
8.9
9.3
/10
4.4
4.0
/5

4-star historic waterfront hotel in Russell

Location

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is situated directly on the waterfront in Russell within the scenic Bay of Islands. This hotel holds the distinction of being New Zealand's first licensed hotel, established in 1827. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Kororareka Bay and are steps away from local shops, cafes, and cultural sites.

Dining

The Duke of Marlborough features an award-winning restaurant that showcases locally sourced seasonal produce. The restaurant offers a diverse menu including specialties like Waikare Inlet Oysters and slow-roasted lamb shoulder. With two lovely decks overlooking the water, dining becomes an experience enhanced by unobstructed views.

Rooms

Accommodation options at The Duke include waterfront rooms that open onto private balconies with views of the Bay. Each room is recently renovated and offers modern comforts such as ensuite bathrooms and luxurious bedding. Guests can choose between room types including waterfront rooms, superior rooms, and a self-contained apartment.

Events

The hotel provides versatile spaces for weddings and corporate functions, managed by an experienced events team. Options include private dining on The Deck, The Ballroom, and The Dutchess Room, accommodating various event sizes. The venue is equipped to handle all event logistics, ensuring a streamlined experience.

Recreation

On-site amenities include access to a private gym and nearby tennis courts, offering options for active guests. The hotel's prime location allows quick access to local beaches, mountain biking trails, and hiking paths. The area provides numerous outdoor excursions, from sailing in the bay to exploring conservation areas.

Highlights

Location: New Zealand's first licensed hotel

Dining: Award-winning restaurant

Event Spaces: The Deck and The Ballroom

Recreation: Private gym and tennis courts

Accommodation: Waterfront rooms with balconies

“The Duke of Marlborough earns its reputation as New Zealand's first licensed hotel, steeped in history and right on the Russell waterfront. Its charm mirrors a living museum, complete with art and artifacts from the past. In my opinion, the hotel's waterfront apartments and proximity to local attractions provide a blend of relaxation and adventure worth considering.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Select your room type

The Duke Of Marlborough offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Small Double Room
    2 persons
    11 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
  • Apartment Sea View
    2 persons
    29 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Bathtub
  • Queen Room Balcony
    2 persons
    14 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Duke Of Marlborough offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • 24-hour security
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Tennis court

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Dining table

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle
  • Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

The Duke of Marlborough invites travelers to indulge in authentic dining experiences that celebrate local flavors. Situated on the picturesque waterfront of Russell Bay of Islands, this restaurant offers a delightful blend of family-friendly ambiance and modern touches, making it a perfect gathering spot for all occasions.
  • Duke of Marlborough

    Local New Zealand cuisine
    Ambiance
    Family-friendly and modern with scenic waterfront views
    Key Offerings
    Featuring a selection of locally caught seafood and vegetarian, gluten-free options, this restaurant is ideal for everyone who seeks a taste of New Zealand's culinary treasures.
    Reservation
    Reservations recommended
    Open daily from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM

The Duke Of Marlborough Location

35 The Strand, Russell, 0202
Explore Russell
Local Highlights Around The Duke Of Marlborough
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Russell Museum
Russell Museum
4 minutes' walk
Russell Museum showcases local history and maritime artifacts, highlighting the region's past and cultural significance.
Christ Church Russell
Christ Church Russell
5 minutes' walk
Christ Church, completed in 1846, is one of New Zealand's oldest churches with stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass.
Pompallier Mission and Printery
Pompallier Mission and Printery
5 minutes' walk
Pompallier Mission offers insights into early European settlement with interactive exhibits and guided tours in a historical building.
Flagstaff Hill Historic Reserve
Flagstaff Hill Historic Reserve
11 minutes' walk
Flagstaff Hill features panoramic views and historical significance as the site of key events during the Māori Land Wars.
Russell Boating Club
Russell Boating Club
19 minutes' walk
Russell Boating Club offers sailing and boating experiences with stunning coastal views, ideal for both novices and experienced sailors.
Tapeka Point Beach
25 minutes' walk
Tapeka Point Beach features calm waters and picnic areas, perfect for snorkeling or relaxing in the sun with family.
Duke of Marlborough
1 minute' walk
Duke of Marlborough offers a seaside dining experience featuring fresh, local seafood and a fantastic wine selection with gorgeous views.
Bayside Restaurant and Bar
1 minute' walk
Bayside Restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu, including pizza and grilled specialties, perfect for families.
TukTuk Bangkok Thai Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
TukTuk serves authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy setting, known for its stir-fries and aromatic curries, suitable for various dietary needs.
Just Imagine Gallery
Just Imagine Gallery
3 minutes' walk
Just Imagine Gallery features local art and crafts and often hosts workshops and exhibitions, making it perfect for art lovers.
Russell Theatre
5 minute' drive
Russell Theatre showcases films and live performances in an intimate venue, often featuring local talent and cultural events.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Russell 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Airports
    Bay of Islands (KKE) 59 min  ·  24.1 mi
    Whangarei (WRE) 126 min  ·  51.9 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
until 10 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible at a location nearby for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
38

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Duke Of Marlborough from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Duke Of Marlborough is known for its prime location right on the harbour front in Russell, offering beautiful views, especially from the restaurant's front windows. Many guests appreciate the hotel's 'Hamptons look' and its historic, well-presented style; rooms are generally spacious, some including balconies. The food is frequently mentioned as excellent, although a few guests felt the restaurant menu could use updating. The hotel also provides convenient amenities such as free parking.
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Review score
Based on 869 verified reviews
8.9 /10
Great
94 %
Recommend
Location
9.8/10
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.2/10
Breakfast
8.2/10
Pros
Waterfront views
Historic charm
Excellent food
Cons
Event noise
Guest reviews
based on 869 reviews
8.9/10
based on 1678 reviews
8.9/10
Olivia from United Kingdom
Family with children
Deluxe Double or Twin Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 09, 2026
6/10

adequate stay overall

great location helpful staff clean room disorganized breakfast high noise smaller room
the location is great. it allowed easy access to nearby attractions. the staff were generally helpful. they assisted with directions and information regarding local activities. the rooms were very clean.
The breakfast service was somewhat disorganized. I experienced delays. the noise level at night was high. soundproofing could definitely be improved.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About The Duke Of Marlborough
Are there refrigerators available in the guest rooms?
18 March 2024
Yes, all rooms come equipped with a refrigerator for your convenience.
Is tea and coffee available in the rooms?
22 February 2024
Yes, tea and coffee-making facilities are provided in every room.
Can guests with mobility issues access the hotel?
30 May 2024
Yes, the hotel features ramps at the main entrance and a side entrance. There are also wheelchair accessible rooms available, and an elevator to reach the first floor.
Is it possible to reserve a room with twin beds?
12 April 2024
Yes, several room types such as the Superior King Room and Deluxe Double or Twin Room can be arranged with twin beds upon request.
Can an additional bed be provided in the room?
15 July 2024
The availability of a rollaway bed depends on the room type you choose. There is a surcharge for extra guests unless they're children under 12.
Which accommodations feature water views and balconies?
10 June 2024
Waterfront Rooms and the Waterfront Apartment, along with some Superior Rooms, have stunning ocean views and balconies.
Are hair dryers available in the bathrooms?
17 August 2024
Yes, all bathrooms in the hotel rooms are equipped with hair dryers.
Is there guest parking available at the hotel?
5 September 2024
Yes, there is a designated parking area for guests located on York Street, just behind the hotel with options for electric vehicles as well.
Can I enjoy meals at the restaurant without being a hotel guest?
2 October 2024
Yes, the restaurant is open to the public; visitors are welcome to enjoy meals and drinks.
Does the establishment provide wheelchair accessible rooms?
25 January 2025
Yes, there are wheelchair accessible rooms available, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests with mobility challenges.
Are there any rooms with bathtubs available?
18 November 2024
Yes, all Waterfront Rooms feature bathtubs, and selected Superior and Classic Rooms also have baths.

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