Many thanks to Jan and Leigh for their hospitality on this our fourth visit. Despite their earthquake damage which they are awaiting resolving they continue to keep smiling. Very comfortable accommodation and fantastic breakfasts have helped to make our return stay very enjoyable. Thank you again.
Anselm House is a Christchurch landmark home, situated peacefully by the riverside. Our room overlooked the river and we were treated daily to the antics of the resident ducks. The room is spacious and comfortable with a large en-suite bathroom. We felt completely relaxed here. Jan & Leigh are a wonderful couple, genuinely interested in the comfort and convenience of their guests. They gave us lovely breakfasts each morning, even getting up at 4am with us on our last day so that we would be properly fed before our early flight. That is what I call service above and beyond! For anyone concerned about earthquake damage - don't be. The house is safe, warm, comfortable and is somewhere we would visit again and wholeheartedly recommend to others.
This was our seventh visit to Anselm House. Leigh and Jan continue to offer a warm welcome, a very high standard of accommodation and the most delicious breakfasts. Anselm House is in a delightful spot, next to the River Avon. Look out for the trout which patrols the river flowing by the garden.
We started our South Island 'sojourn' w/ a 3 nite stay at Anselm House. As noted in earlier reviews, Leigh will, if needed, pick you up at the airport and by the time you arrive at their B & B you will be saturated with practical local info. Leigh does have a gift for gab. My American ear strained to keep up w/ his accent, but that made it the more fun. Greeted by Jan at their home, you instantly know you have entered a 'comfort zone' of easy familiarity and unpretentious charm. The River Room, as our room is called, was very comfortable. To term breakfasts plentiful would be an understatement; Jan is constantly concerned that every thing is just to your liking. After one morning's breakfast in which the conversation touched on different kinds of kiwi fruit, sure enough -- the next morning appeared golden kiwis for a tasting comparison w/ green kiwis. We just happened to be in Christchurch on the 3rd year anniversary of the most major of their earthquakes. Its truly shocking to see the extent of the devastation --though by now largely cleaned up. Repairs to many remaining structures will take years to complete, not to mention new construction. Our general sense though was of a community bravely 'keeping a stiff upper lip', a note of character shared by Jan and Leigh. If you're coming thru Christchurch, we strongly suggest staying at Anselm House, as much for a touch of the true Christchurch as for the comfort of the lodging.…
A return visit for us yet again. Jan and Leigh are the perfect hosts, great breakfast, comfortable bed and good conversation all help to make this one of the best places we have stayed in our travels. We stayed 2 nights at the beginning of our tour of South Island and then returned before our flight which gave us time to repack and sort the hire car out. Thankyou to both we hope to return again in a couple of years.
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Listing