ByWard Blue Inn

ByWard Blue Inn Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to the ByWard Blue Inn on Clarence Street, you immediately get that “this is exactly where I want to be” feeling. I mean, you’re literally in the heart of Ottawa’s ByWard Market — honestly, you can’t get more central than this. The three-star property might not scream sophistication, but it has this welcoming, unpretentious vibe that actually works perfectly for the neighborhood. There’s something refreshing about a hotel that knows what it is and does it well.

Location Magic

Here’s the thing about staying right on Clarence Street — you’re basically living like a local for however long you’re here. The cobblestone streets of the market are right outside your door, and I’m talking about the real deal, not some touristy version. You can grab fresh pastries at 7 AM or find yourself at a late-night poutine spot without even thinking about transportation. Couples especially seem to love this setup (they’ve rated the location 9.5, which honestly makes total sense), probably because you can just wander around hand-in-hand and stumble onto great little spots.

The Room Experience

The rooms here are what I’d call “smartly simple” — they’ve got everything you actually need without trying to impress you with stuff you’ll never use. Each room feels clean and comfortable, with decent space for a downtown property. You know what I appreciate? The windows actually open, so you can hear the gentle buzz of the market below. It’s not silent, but it’s the good kind of city noise that reminds you you’re somewhere special. The beds are solid too — I slept well, which isn’t always a given when you’re this close to the action.

Morning Fuel

Breakfast here is surprisingly comprehensive for a place this size. They’ve got the full spread — continental options, American classics, and even gluten-free choices if that’s your thing. The buffet setup works well, especially when you’re trying to fuel up for a day of exploring Parliament Hill or the Rideau Canal. What I really liked was that they seem to understand travelers have different schedules and dietary needs. Plus, there’s private parking available, which — trust me — is worth its weight in gold when you’re staying downtown in any Canadian city.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t the fanciest place you’ll ever stay, but it absolutely nails what matters most: location, comfort, and value. The 8.7 rating tells the real story — people leave here happy because their expectations were not just met but exceeded in the ways that actually matter. You’re paying for a great restaurant scene right outside your door, easy access to everything Ottawa has to offer, and a place that feels more like a well-run neighborhood spot than a corporate hotel. Sometimes that’s exactly what you want, especially when you’re more interested in exploring the city than hanging out in your room.

ByWard Blue Inn Accommodations

Reviews of ByWard Blue Inn

• Laura from Spain (9/10)

  Very comfortable, central and clean. Breakfast was great!

• Anita from Canada (8/10)

  Original art throughout. Very pleasant place to stay!

• Marlene from Canada (9/10)

  Located centrally to many services and attractions and many are walkable.
  The hot and cold choices for breakfast offer variety. The staff are friendly and helpful.

• Tammy from Canada (9/10)

  The location was perfect for exploring the byward market, clear direction to parliament.
  The staff were exceptional.
  The little kitchenette was a bonus.

• Jac1976 from Canada (8/10)

  Everything except the bad service at reception.
  No hello, no thanks, no good night, no smile. Only that hard face where you feel it, you're interfering with my YB video watching

• Katarzyna from Canada (9/10)

  Great place, walking distance to shops and attractions, great breakfast, clean room! Highly recommended!!!

• Lynn from Canada (8/10)

• Brenda from Canada (9/10)

  Perfect location close to everything
  Breakfast was excellent
  Nice variety of food

• Sellers from Canada (9/10)

  Breakfast was excellent, loved the croissants, the hot part as well (meat, eggs, potatoes.)

• Cheikh from Canada (9/10)

  Staff was very friendly and helpful.
  The breakfast was good and of higher quality. Room and bathroom was large and clean. I was pleasantly surprised !

Surroundings

Facilities