The Fairlawn Hotel is a historic hotel, kind of a landmark, that is known to be a favorite among creative people. I met other guests from all over the globe. It is a fairly intimate and friendly atmosphere. I had the pleasure and honor to meet the owner, Mrs. Violet Smith, who was in her 80s or 90s and such... More

I would gladly go back, but the atmosphere has changed. What was once an open forecourt or garden intended for hotel guests has become a covered beer garden, open to all comers. I'm sure this was an economic necessity, but it does make a difference. Lonely Planet lists it as a drinking place, as well as a hotel. There can... More

As we walked into the hotel, we felt more or less how most reviewers here described. No doubt we were blown away by the whole decor. However, that wasn't what we were looking for. First night, we were given the last room (next to the kitchen) on the ground floor. As we were shown inside the room, we both instantly... More

This certainly isn't 5 star but doesn't claim to be. It's very old and worn but clean with friendly, helpful staff and very well located. It's a safe environment for a single female and, as somebody else noted, handy for meeting other travellers. A walk around the block covers just about everything you need in the way of food and... More

My husband and I have stayed here on numerous occasions.It is in a very central location for visiting all the tourist spots in Kolkata. plus shopping , markets. and restaurants. The hotel itself is an absolute gem for getting to know people. It has a beer garden which has recently been renovated and is visited by locals, backpackers and other... More

This hotel is run by an Old Armenian lady and the property is maintained on a very basic basis. The rooms are simple, spacious, very retro and economical ( that goes for all of Calcutta). Most people, especially westerners get 'smitten' by the 'Charm of old world Calcutta' - which primarily for an Indian means garbage everywhere, crappy taxis and... More

My last visit to Kolkata was 1977 when as a young Backpacker stayed at the Salvation Army Hostel which was then across the road from Fairlawn. Sudder St. has degenerated since then but the Fairlawn is an escape from the hustle and bustle of Kolkata. Meals served in the Restaurant are very good (a bit bland) and the Beer cold....... More

i really enjoyed my 4 day stay at the Fairlawn .. it is an oasis and refuge from both the heat and bustle of Calcutta .. a cool and tranquil--and friendly - place to return to after venturing out to explore Calcutta .It is very conveniently located ,the bedrooms are very comfortable ,the bathrooms stylish and modern (though the rest... More

One gets a sense of old Calcutta and how those glorious grand houses felt like to live in. Sudder Street is an ideal location for seeing most of the sights on foot and this hotel is a little haven in the bustling centre of the city. Like one other reviewer, I had not been in Calcutta for 30 years and... More