The Inn's Story

I am delighted to extend a personal welcome to all visiting this website and to offer some of the Inn’s history.

It was during one of my many visits to Santa Barbara that I discovered these two buildings which were for sale and suffering from years of neglect. The beautiful architecture was apparent beneath the peeling paint and overgrown gardens. I purchased the property in 1984 and officially opened as the Cheshire Cat Inn in 1985. The theme of the Inn was inspired by my home in Cheshire, England and by the wonderful author Charles Dodgson, aka Lewis Carroll, famous for his book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and also a native of the beautiful county of Cheshire.

Over the past 30 years, this Santa Barbara inn has played an integral part in my life as well as of my partner, Jack Greenwald, who has helped navigate us through the last decade of exploding technological advances. Our joined past ventures in the hospitality industry have included many memorable events at the Cheshire Cat extending from family weddings to culinary classes allowing us to meet many extraordinary people along the way notably the lovely Julia Child.

Now comprised of 14 rooms and 4 cottages, we are continually striving to provide our guests with the most up to date accommodations paired with an atmosphere of warmth and conviviality.

We hope you enjoy your stay and look forward to meeting you.

Christine and Jack