About Us - Hirrowen Quinthale Hotel | Heritage Boutique Inn Victoria

How It All Began

So here's the thing - back in 1892, the Quinthale family didn't just build a hotel. They created something that'd become part of Victoria's soul. Old Edmund Quinthale, a Scottish shipbuilder who'd made his fortune in the Pacific trade, wanted a place where travelers could feel the warmth of a real home.

The original structure was this gorgeous three-story mansion with those hand-carved Douglas fir beams you still see today. Edmund's wife, Margaret, she had an eye for beauty that was just... well, you can see it in every corner. Those stained glass windows in the east wing? Yeah, those are hers.

We've been welcoming folks through these doors for over 130 years now, and honestly, that's something we're pretty darn proud of.

Through the Decades

1892

The Foundation

Edmund & Margaret Quinthale opened the doors to what was originally called "Hirrowen Manor" - a 12-room guesthouse for weary travelers.

1923

The Grand Expansion

Their son James added the west wing, doubling the rooms and introducing what became Victoria's first hotel dining room with a proper French chef.

1967

Modern Touches

The hotel underwent careful restoration, adding modern plumbing and electricity while preserving every bit of that Victorian character we love.

2018

Heritage Renewal

Our most recent renovation brought in spa facilities and upgraded amenities while maintaining authentic period details throughout.

Glimpses of Yesterday

The original Hirrowen Manor, circa 1895

The dining hall during its heyday, 1920s

Guest suite, 1930s

Our staff, proud as ever, 1945

The gardens in full bloom, 1952

Preserving What Matters

Look, we could've torn everything down and built something shiny and new. But where's the soul in that? Instead, we've spent years - and yeah, a fair bit of money - making sure every original detail stays put.

Those creaky floorboards in the library? They're from trees that were standing when Queen Victoria was still around. The marble in the main staircase came all the way from Italy on one of Edmund's own ships. We've got window latches that're older than most countries.

But here's what really gets us - it's not just about keeping old stuff around. It's about honoring the people who walked these halls before us. The families who celebrated here, the couples who got married in our gardens, the travelers who found a home away from home.

Heritage Designation

Recognized by Heritage BC since 1989

What We're About Today

Running a heritage hotel in 2024 isn't always easy, but it's what we love doing.

Every morning when we unlock these doors, we're thinking about how to give you the best of both worlds. You want a place with character and stories? We've got 'em in spades. But you also want reliable Wi-Fi, a proper shower with decent water pressure, and a bed that doesn't leave you with a sore back. We get it.

Our team's a mix of folks who've been here for decades and fresh faces bringing new energy. Together, we're committed to keeping this place special - not just preserved in amber, but alive and thriving. We host weddings where grandparents tell stories about their own celebrations here years ago. We welcome business travelers who appreciate a meeting room with actual architectural interest. We're home to anniversary couples who've been coming back every year since the 70s.

Genuine Hospitality

No scripts, no fake smiles. Just real people who actually care about making your stay memorable.

Living History

Every room has a story, every corner holds memories. We're not a museum - we're a living piece of Victoria's heritage.

Thoughtful Luxury

Comfort doesn't mean losing character. We've brought in modern amenities without sacrificing what makes us unique.

Our Story