About Us

Abigail's History

Originally built in the 1930’s as a Tudor revival-style apartment building, Abigail’s Hotel was previously known as “The Bessborough” apartments.

The apartments were named after Vere Brabazon Ponsonby, ninth Earl of Bessborough, who was Governor General of Canada from 1931 until 1935. The building is derived from the half-timbered houses of the 16th and 17th centuries with irregular shapes, steeply pitched roofs, multi-paned windows and rough-hewn materials. The Bessborough was originally an eight-suite luxury apartment building.

Contrary to popular belief, McClure Street, where Abigail’s is located, has no connection with the well-known architect Samuel McClure. McClure is one of the famous explorer streets in Victoria, named after Robert John le Mesurier McClure.

In 1985 The Bessborough was completely renovated, converting it into a sixteen room bed and breakfast inn. The exterior was restored to its original Tudor architecture and was designated as a Heritage Building in the Historic Registry of the City of Victoria.

In 1998 the “Coach House” was constructed alongside the main house with six luxury guestrooms. All Coach House rooms feature luxurious king-size beds, wet-bars, electric fireplaces and jetted tubs.

In January 2023 construction of the Bessborough building was completed. In recognition of the hotel’s history and in keeping with the heritage style of the main house, this new addition boasts 8 luxurious and spacious rooms, an elevator, new kitchen and dining room, bringing the total number of rooms at Abigail’s to 30.

Upgrades, room refreshes and other major amenity changes are continuously pursued on a regular basis. Despite such changes, we have been careful to preserve the heritage atmosphere of our unique building. European furnishings with antiques, rich fabrics and warm colours, fresh flowers, fine art and stained glass – our interior design helps to create that ‘special experience’ that remains respectful of the beauty and luxury of our history, blended with the sophisticated modern comforts of the present.