Wentworth Mansion Review

The Wentworth Mansion, as one either walks by or pulls through the impressively oversized wrought iron gates, is an imposing brick structure that commands attention as was likely the intention of the wealthy cotton merchant who had the home built to accommodate himself and his children and grandchildren back in the late 1800's. The Wentworth Inn actually encompasses all the things one calls to mind that speak of great wealth of that era. It was constructed as a showpiece to display the merchant's wealth including countless Tiffany stained glass transoms and windows created with designs symbolic of monetary success and a grand, sweeping staircase with heavy wooden balustrades. Abound throughout are carved marble mantles, polished and intricately carved wooden moldings, marble accents, Austrian crystal chandeliers, imported tile floors decoratively laid in pattern. In the style of the day the mansion offers double parlors with 15' ceilings, which are finished with artfully designed plaster in intricate swirls, cornices and medallions. Huge and gleaming pocket doors match the heavy, masculine paneling throughout the common rooms on the first level. The sunroom provides a view of the gardens and a sitting area in which guests can have morning coffee and easily let the mind wander to the type of life the original occupants enjoyed in this formidable home.

    

This once a private residence, now converted to luxury accommodations is complete with a full service restaurant and 3-room spa. The Wentworth Mansion is located in the heart of downtown Charleston and is a most desirable venue for a private party or wedding in particular. The cupola and widows walk, atop the slate shingled, mansard roof, originally constructed for its panoramic 360-degree views of the entire skyline and waterfront of Charleston, is now a popular romantic spot for marriage proposals. And from rooftop to gardens, the proposal often times brings the ceremony to the gardens and reception to the house interior or to the on site restaurant, Circa 1886.

Room accommodations are as luxuriously appointed as the main areas of the mansion. Each room is guarded by a solid wooden eight paneled door, outfitted with extremely high decorative ceilings, and many with as high as 10' windows, these rooms offer every luxury from opulently dressed windows and beds to oversized and grand antiques with working fireplaces and plush cotton robes and slippers to indulge each guest. The spacious private bath for each guestroom is outfitted with Jacuzzi tubs, marble and richly tiled floors. Although the mansion retains it Gilded Age period ambiance, there is every modern convenience for guests to enjoy as well. Individually controlled climate for all seasons in each room as well as wireless Internet and discretely placed televisions and phone service. Of the 21 guestrooms, the lower rooms offer access to private gardens or terraces and the upper rooms, individually decorated, may reveal a garden, city side or seaside view.

A stay at the Wentworth will easily allow ones imagination to capture the essence of life as Lord or Lady of the manor as the well-trained staff tends to every possible detail. Known for service and discretion, the Wentworth has been the choice venue for dignitaries or celebrities while staying in Charleston. For the impeccable service, full restaurant, bar, spa and room service in these luxury accommodations, the Wentworth earns nothing less than the highest possible, 5-diamond rating.