After a 12-hour journey to an unfamiliar time zone, what is it that you would be most looking forward to? For me, travelling west, it was a warm, comfy, welcoming hotel with a bedroom to match. In an ideal world, it would be something like my grandparents’ house. I experienced such a rarity when I travelled to Jackson, Mississippi, when I stayed at the cosy boutique Fairview Inn.
Built in the early 1900s, it was about wooden floors with carpets, low lighting, calm and a cheery greeting the minute you walk in – ‘You must be Mr McKenzie’. Built in 1908 as a Colonial Revival Mansion, it stands as a cherished landmark in the city’s historic Belhaven district. It offers visitors a unique combination of true Southern hospitality and refined comfort. Known as Jackson’s only AAA Four-Diamond small luxury hotel, it elegantly melds its roots with modern amenities and boutique-style ambience.
Library Patio at Fairview Inn
Lush gardens, outdoor decks, and welcoming verandas set with rocking chairs—ideal for enjoying a quiet morning or unwinding at sunset with a Mississippi Punch. A unique concoction of almost every spirit you can think of, plus lemon juice, syrup, and bitters, shaken with crushed ice. Given the temperatures in Mississippi, it is served over more crushed ice and is absolutely delicious. The Inn’s location in the upmarket district of Belhaven means you are only moments away from the Jacksons arts, theatres, museums, and distinctive shopping districts, making it a prime base for exploring the Capitol of Mississippi.
Who for
Individuals or couples looking for a sophisticated or romantic stay in the Mississippi’s biggest city.
Accommodation
The Fairview Inn has just 18 rooms, and I was thrilled to be allocated the Magnolia suite, which is accessed up the wooden staircase and by the use of old tech – yes, a metal key.
Magnolia Suite
The room was perfectly furnished with antique pieces to reflect the rest of the property with a high and wide double bed, tiled bathroom with both a whirlpool tub and shower plus a sitting room complete with a fireplace, bureau and writing materials.
On my last day, I tried what I had determined in my mind was a secret door, only to find yet another bedroom, complete with two smaller but still double-sized beds. You were left with the overall sense of comfort, privacy, and understated elegance. Needless to say, one could enjoy high-speed internet access, high-quality Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, and meticulous daily housekeeping.
Food & Drink
The Fairview Inn is home to the Library Lounge—a favourite among visitors and locals alike—offering Southern-inspired cuisine and carefully crafted cocktails such as the Mississippi punch in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Library Lounge
My take on it was that during the day it was the top place to visit for lunch by locals with a desire to be seen and sometimes heard. An ideal spot to earwig and get a sense of place. Guests can enjoy dinner at 1908 Provisions, the inn’s fine dining restaurant, for a taste of Mississippi flavours, or settle in for afternoon drinks surrounded by thousands of books in the cozy Library Lounge. Breakfast, which I thoroughly enjoyed, featured a wide choice including cooked items and quality coffee. My choice was some fresh fruit to start with, followed by a bespoke omelette with cheese, bacon and mushrooms served with wheat toast.
Facilities
As part of the hotel offerings, one can unwind at the nomiSpa facility, which is nestled beside the gardens. Enjoy treatments including massages, facials, reflexology, aromatherapy, detox baths, Raindrop Therapy (whatever that is), manicures, pedicures, and body treatments. The best thing is that after your spa experience, you can retreat and relax in the oasis of the Fairview Inn.
How Much
The Magnolia Suite starts at £185 per night for two people including breakfast. Other rooms start from £148 per night. CHECK AVAILABILITY
What’s Nearby
Many of the main Jackson attractions are within an easy 15-minute drive of the Fairview Inn where downtown parking is easy and plentiful. On your to see list should be the Civil Rights Museum, Mississippi History, Modern Art, Sports Hall of Fame, Modern Science and the Capitol Building itself. It also very easy to get to see and hear live music at Hal and Mals, Jacksons infamous restaurant music venue. Even easier to enjoy sumptuous award winning restaurants such as Elvie’s and Kiefer’s.
Verdict: The whole atmosphere at the Fairview Inn offers a window into the city’s deep-rooted southern history and vibrant present. An experience filled with character, hospitality, and an authentic touch of Mississippi warmth.