My (new) husband and I just got back from a weekend at the Tides Lodge in Irvington, VA. Although we did get to relax, Joe noticed that the accomodations had gone a little downhill since his last visit there 5 years ago. There is no longer a main dining room, so you have to take the water taxi the the Tides Inn for a "fancy" dinner. Also, our room was badly in need of painting and we had trouble with breakfast at the Binnacle Restaurant two days in a row. For $170 per night we had hoped for a little more luxury, but apparently that's saved for the Tides Inn side. Does anyone have any comments about the Tides Lodge vs. the Tides Inn? I really liked that area of country (Northern Neck) and would consider going back, but doubt I would stay at the Tides Lodge. Is it worth the extra money to stay at the Inn? Thanks!

Hanna, what's the physical proximity of the Tides Lodge versus the Tides Inn? And what is the layout of the Lodge (inn arrangement, motel-style arrangement)?

Neil, Tides Lodge and Tides Inn are owned by the same family and are located across the water from each other (I'm not sure if they're separated by the Chesapeake or the Rappahonnack). The Lodge was laid out motel-style for the most part, with a separate marina, fresh water pool, saltwater pool, and restaurant. The Inn had more to offer as far as type of room type goes based on our brief visit on that side for dinner. The grounds were nicer and better maintained that the Lodge also. The problem I saw was that staying at the Inn required one to participate in a meal plan (breakfast and dinner included)which really drove up the cost.

Just a few quick comments:
the Lodge has been renovated since (I'm told)
We've stayed twice at the Inn, once in an ok room but not terribly fancy,once we got upgraded to a water front suite because there was a group next to theroom we where supposed to stay and they were worried they might get too noisy. The suite was definitely very nice.
The food is what we love about the Inn, totally delicious as well as their kids' program. Our kids aren't into kiddie programs but they love the one at the Tides Inn; plus they have pizza/movie night for the kids on weekends, so you get to eat deinner in peace.

We stayed at The Tides Inn last June. We had a great time. Since we were there the last week in June, it wasn't crowded. The rooms were in need of renovation which is now complete. Ther e were plenty of activities to keep children busy: bicycles, playground, game room, golf course.

We were happy with the food. The main dining room was dressy. Jackets were required for dinner.

There are nearby attractions such as Busch Gardens, also. The town itself is quiet.

Overall, we had a very enjoyable time and would recommend it.