On a hill adjacent to the convention-oriented Hilton Washington, six long blocks north of Dupont Circle, this evocative traditional hotel is harbored in a converted early 20th-century apartment building.
The Churchill is an outstanding choice for those desiring large period accommodations and attentive service at attractive rates. Boasting a fine reputation, this nine-story hotel does a good job of bridging the gap between boutique-hotels and overblown commercial addresses, especially the larger ones up the street, like the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel and the Omni Shoreham.
The comfortable residential-style lobby is understated, with pale lemon colored walls, sophisticated period appointments and gilt-framed paintings. Reception is thick with eager staffers, and the concierge knows his territory well.
The restaurant appears to have found a steady force in the Chartwell Grill, a dependable, well-priced Continental room that serves all meals. The adjacent cocktail lounge is clad in mahogany. For meetings and special events, the salon seats 160 theater-style and divides into three smaller rooms. Access to the small gym is free. Valet and self-service parking are available.
All of the accommodations have recently been updated with new soft goods and a few modern touches such as plasma-screen TVs. Although a few modern flourishes have surfaced with the recent renovation, the rooms retain a predominately traditional sensibility. The come in three grades, with the standard units offering sizeable proportions, and either one king or two double beds.
The new beds are excellent, with pillow-top mattress and extra pillows. The traditional styling runs to valances over bay windows, attractive patterned drapes, quality reproduction furnishings, minibars, walk-in closets, vanity areas and compact combination baths.
All rooms now offer wireless Internet access. Standard rooms are larger than average, appointed with alcove work areas and three phones. Top value is found in the Privilege rooms, with commodious sitting areas as well as work alcoves.
The 36 vast deluxe suites boast four dual-line phones, and robes and greenery are among the tasteful extras. Book standard rooms in low season, because management upgrades guests whenever occupancy warrants. Extras include complimentary turndown and morning newspapers. Room service operates until 10:30 pm. Pets are not permitted.
Service is at times on the slow side, but this hotel's calm residential air lures both business and leisure travelers who seek a hint of home in the busy U.S. capital.
