Rebecca is an experienced travel writer, specialising in Japan and the UK. Born and raised in the West Country, she's also spent time living in London, Cambridge and Kyoto, and is now based in Newcastle. She loves promoting independent and inclusive businesses, and sustainable off-the-beaten-track travel.
Hotel Review
Southernhay House, Exeter, Devon
With its original cocktails and seasonally-changing menu served in the restaurant, there's plenty to keep you fed and watered at this hotel in the evenings, and with comfortable beds and rolltop baths to retire to, it's a wonder why you'd ever leave. But with its fantastic central Exeter location and being a short stroll from the quayside, there's plenty to be explored outside this chic hideaway.
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Rooms available from £215 per night
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Location
The location feels quiet and peaceful but it's a stone's throw from the cathedral, a ten-minute stroll from the quay and is within walking distance of everything Exeter has to offer, from historic buildings, museums and underground passages to indie shops, pubs and event venues.
Within walking distance of most of Exeter's attractions.
By train: Exeter St David's is a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride from the hotel, reached in around 3 hours from London Waterloo, 1 hour from Bristol, and 3 hours 30 mins from Penzance. Book trains to Exeter St David's.
By car: Exeter is around 4 hours' drive from London, under 2 hours from Brighton and 1 hour from Plymouth. Parking is available on Southernhay East overnight or in a local car park.
Style
This listed Georgian building showcases beautifully preserved original features, including elegant Neoclassical columns and intricate cornicing. The historic charm is tastefully enhanced with modern design elements, such as luxurious bathrooms with underfloor heating. Each room is carefully curated with a thoughtful selection of bespoke and antique furniture. With its focus on adult guests, this hotel creates an ideal setting for a romantic weekend escape.
Service & Facilities
The staff at this establishment are attentive and efficient, providing helpful advice on menu selections and local activities without being intrusive. While the facilities are meticulously designed and maintained, the hotel's size does not allow for amenities such as a spa or pool. However, there's a grand dining room featuring an inviting open fire and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Please note that due to the hotel being housed in a listed building, none of the rooms are fully wheelchair-accessible.
- Bar & bar menu
- Dining room
- Function rooms
- Club Room
- Events
- Free Wi-Fi
Bedrooms
The eleven rooms are meticulously decorated and each room is filled with unique and charming details, showcasing a careful selection of hand-picked antiques and locally crafted furniture. As part of the hotel's commitment to sustainability, they have implemented a no single-use plastic policy.
Room types: Intimate Rooms, Comfy Rooms, Larger Rooms, Luxury Rooms, SevenCentral Apartment
Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, TV, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer, free Wi-Fi
Restaurants & Bars
Breakfast options here are abundant, with croissants, toast and granola with fruit and yoghurt, as well as baked eggs and a hearty Full English breakfast. For lunch and dinner, menus offer simple yet creative options using seasonal ingredients. To complement your dining experience, the cocktail list includes some delicious original creations, from the tangy, non-alcoholic Millennial Martini to the potent Orientalist (Cognac, Noilly Prat, Chambord and bitters).
Bar menu: Locally-sourced classics, bar snacks and "tiffin tins" to share. Available at lunchtimes and in the evenings to eat at the bar, in public rooms or al fresco. Plates from £7.50. Cocktails from £8.
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