White Fences Inn

After the long journey from New York City, on a rainy Friday in October, we were eager to arrive at Hamptons hideaway, White Fences Inn – in Watermill, at the tip of Long Island – and get settled in. However, this was proving difficulty: the traffic on Route 27 (the South Fork’s main drag) is heavy, and the road is poorly lit, so we missed the hotel entrance and had to make a U-turn. The timeliness and backtracking proved to be worth it as we were greeted at the front door by Bailey – the proprietors’ golden retriever – and Liz, half of the couple who run the inn. 

After our ordeal, we were delighted to learn that Liz had kindly upgraded us from a room to a beautiful suite, which happened to be closer to the room my sister and her husband were staying in. (We were all in town for a friend’s wedding).

Our first impression of the inn’s interiors was positive: spaces are pared back, but comfortable. Don’t expect the shabby-chic charm of some beachside hideaways or ‘directional’ design – the hotel excels in simply charming cosiness. Common areas are clean and bright and rooms follow suit. On entering we thrill at the dreamily comfortable bed (made up with gorgeous Frette and Matouk linens) and piled high with pillows. 

Luxurious fluffy bathrobes were neatly folded on upholstered armchairs and Liz gave us instructions on how to work the room’s flatscreen TV, Nespresso machine, and automatic gas fireplace. I suddenly found myself wishing I had no obligations, so I could while away days at White Fences – our room was spotlessly clean and unfailingly comfortable, perfect for hibernating in. The bathroom did not disappoint either, with its stash of Malin + Goetz toiletries, his-and-hers sinks and huge shower. I could have spent hours scrubbing and soaking in there.

Long Island’s low season (post-Labor Day through Thanksgiving) is delightful: as the summer crowds diminish, the mood mellows. We took advantage of the lack of tourists and drove to the North Fork the day following our arrival. We must have passed two-dozen orchards and farm stands selling cider, pumpkins, and chrysanthemums. After an afternoon spent exploring, before we had to attend the wedding that evening), we were excited to retire to White Fences, take hot showers and wrap ourselves in the plush robes. 

Our expectations were exceeded when we discovered warm, freshly baked chocolate-chip cookies in our rooms. The attentive service at White Fences can’t be overstated; Liz offered us travel tips, free passes to the nearby Parrish Art Museum and restaurant recommendations. 

However, we did find the attention a little overwhelming during breakfast, a delicious, delightfully over-the-top affair of multiple courses were cooked by Liz (including baked pears and eggy dishes), and served by her husband at a communal dining table. We enjoyed socialising with the other guests; however, the morning after late-night wedding festivities, we would have been content to serve ourselves coffee and limit our interactions. 
Yet, overall, we were made to feel like treasured guests, and felt very well looked after at White Fences. It’s a hotel where you’re given a lot for your money: excellent service, warm cookies, the most comfortable bed and the best night’s sleep.