Camden, ME, May 25th, 2024 – On May 25th, 1984, Lord Camden Inn opened its doors to the general public and made its grand debut on Main Street in Camden.
Lord Camden Inn’s history of hospitality began as the vision of Stuart & Marianne Smith, a local family with an entrepreneurial spirit. The Smith’s thought a downtown location was the very place to build an elegant and comfortable Inn inspired by the historic brick building it resides in, complete with antique reproductions, wing back chairs and four-poster beds.
The Smith’s labor of love quickly evolved into one of Camden’s most gracious and recognized Inns, a place where comfort and elegance are hallmarks in creating a “stay worth remembering,” which happens to be their motto. Since opening, the Inn has welcomed tens of thousands of travelers from all over the world (including some celebrities!).
A lot has changed since 1984—furnishings and amenities have been upgraded, staff have come and gone, but two things have remained the same for years: Stuart and Marianne still own and cherish the Inn, and their commitment to legendary customer service has never waivered.
“The hotel’s 40th anniversary is a tribute to all that have stayed and celebrated with us over the past 40 years, an assurance of continued distinction, and an invitation to experience hospitality that celebrates you, our guest,” says Marianne Smith.
The Lord Camden Inn was Stuart and Marianne’s first venture into the hospitality industry, but was most certainly not their last. In June of 2010, they opened the Grand Harbor Inn, a luxury waterfront property. In January of 2016, they renovated the Old Garage building on Bay View Street and opened the opulent 16 Bay View Hotel. Most recently, in nearby Rockport, they opened their 4th stately boutique hotel, Rockport Harbor Hotel, in December of 2023. Collectively, the four hotels are known as the Bay View Collection.
