Housed in richly
historic medieval warehouse
On a cobbled
street overlooking one of Bruges's oldest canals
Within walking
distance of the city's main attractions
Free buffet
breakfast served in atmospheric vaulted cellar
Lobby bar and terrace
Private parking
available on-site (pricey)
Free Wi-Fi
Bathtubs (with hand-held shower heads) only
No elevator and
lots of stairs
Poor sound
insulation between rooms
Housed in a medieval warehouse that dates back to the 15th century, the Hotel Ter
Brughe is an intimate, sedate hotel overlooking one of Bruges's oldest canals. While the hotel is imbued
with a real sense of the past, some areas can feel a little dusty and dated --
especially in the lower category rooms. A pleasant first-floor terrace and atmospheric medieval breakfast room
both stand out, though the historic nature of the building means there's no elevator and showers
are sit-down only. If its historical quirks and old-fashioned ambience don't
deter, rates are reasonable for a stay providing real slice of Bruges history.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
Medieval warehouse rich in historical ambience and original features
The Hotel Ter
Brughe occupies a building originally built as as a warehouse for goods
transported up the canal, parts of which dates back to 1470. Even from
the outside, the hotel looks like something from another time, with its medieval red-brick facade, steep quintessentially Bruges roofs, and lead mullion
windows. Inside, evidence of the building's 15th-century origins can
be seen throughout, from vaulted stone ceilings to heavy wooden beams, and the general decor sticks firmly to Old World styling. While the sense of
history is palpable, little has been done to integrate modern elements or update
the period look, resulting in some of the hotel interiors feeling dated in addition to their intentionally medieval style. The breakfast room continues the medieval look, with its stone arches and canal views, but the lobby bar feels more modern, with large windows and small plants. A protected heritage property, the hotel has no
elevator, so reaching rooms on the top floor means climbing three flights of
stairs.
Location
Quiet setting overlooking one of Bruges's oldest canals, north of the main square and walking distance to most sights
The Hotel Ter Brughe is
situated on an historic cobbled street, overlooking one of Bruges's oldest canals in the
historic center of the city. The street is mainly residential and just far enough from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist area and main square to be relaxed and quiet -- though those attractions are still less than a 10-minute walk away. In the surrounding area, there are small
cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, while all the main tourist attractions are
within walking distance. The hotel's position north of the city center, however, means that the main
train station isn't walkable; however, buses run within a couple minutes' walk
of the hotel, and it's about a 10-minute cab ride.
Rooms
Old-fashioned decor with period elements and bathtubs
The hotel's 46
rooms are simply styled with antique or period-style furnishings, period
etchings, and a traditional or old-fashioned feel, depending on your taste. Plenty of the building's original elements are on display in the rooms,
such as the top-floor rooms' medieval wooden beam ceilings. Lack of
recent updating, however, does mean the atmosphere feels a little drab in some cases,
and the Budget and Standard categories are distinctly second-rate in comparison
to the higher categories. Wi-Fi is free of charge and flat-screen TVs come as standard,
though minibars are only stocked on request. Some bathrooms feel somewhat dated
too and, due to the nature of the building, showers cannot be taken standing up -- in other words, all bathrooms have only a bathtub, with a shower handle option.
Although there are a few rooms on the ground floor, the lack of elevator means most
guests will have to climb up to three flights of stairs. Top-floor rooms have rooftop views, and some rooms overlook the canal. Lower-floor rooms might hear noise from the room above them.
Features
Free buffet breakfast in atmospheric vaulted cellar overlooking the canal
A buffet
breakfast is served in the hotel's atmospheric vaulted cellar which overlooks
the canal and is the oldest part of the building -- breakfast is included in
the rate and can also be served in-room for a fee. A first-floor terrace makes
a pleasant place to relax on a sunny day, while a small bar and lounge serves a
good selection of Belgian beers. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel
and there's a computer in the lobby for guests' use. Those arriving
with their own car also have access to private parking, though the daily fee is
quite steep. Pets are welcome for a fee.
