If I suggested a lovely little, seaside staycation getaway, somewhere down on the sunny south coast, then asked you to guess where we were going, don’t expect Plymouth would be the first name on your lips. Might not even make the top ten to be honest. Seems to be one of those cities that is always the bridesmaid, never the bride.
But, having been there for a trip recently, have to say, it is well worth a visit. Very much so. Got more sweet spots than a cupcake shop on a school night.
Historic Hotel
We stayed at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, the first ever (and therefore the oldest) Luxury Hotel in the whole of Plymouth. It was built in 1863, an age of steam trains, steam ships and Victorian, modern gothic, grand designs. People raved about it back then. Loved it’s luscious looks.
These days, the hotel has retained nearly all of those youthful good looks, from the pretty roofline, complete with toy turret at one end, down to the wooden panelling throughout, it’s a marvellous mix of modern comfort and Victorian grandeur.
A time capsule that somehow balances the benefits of being a living, breathing museum piece alongside the need to spoil it’s guests with wifi, soft beds and en-suite facilities.
Bedrooms
The 73 rooms on offer range from stylish singles to four poster bridal suites, with a few unique treats sprinkled in amongst them.
Must say, next time I go back, I’ll be plumping for the turret suite. For reasons that will soon become very obvious. However, for our trip, my companion and I went for a twin room with sea views. Very nice it was too.
The Dining Room
The dining room is a magnificent beast, replete with ornate columns, high ceilings and a superb cupola housing a mighty fine chandelier.
All of which is hardly surprising, as it used to be the Ladies Coffee Room, way back when. That’s another nice thing about the hotel. They have old photo’s and information about it’s history lying around all over the place, just waiting to be discovered.
On our first evening we had a glorious supper of wild mushrooms on toast, which was just what the doctor ordered, followed closely by crayfish pithivier (a sort of tasty pasty, made with puff pastry) alongside potato dauphinoise and broccoli. All of which was most marvellous.
Made sure we went to bed feeling healthy, happy and contented with life.
Plymouth
Next morning we took a sunny stroll along the nearby waterfront, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the Devonshire seaside. After a while, it all became so gorgeous we just had a take a swim. Joining some of the locals for a dip in the sea, in a quiet cove beside the lido.
After all that excitement, we went off to explore the quiet lanes and cobbled back alleys of the Barbican, a pretty part of town beside the harbour.
Afternoon Tea
Later on we treated ourselves to; “Tea at The Top.” Afternoon Tea for two, served in the toy turret I mentioned earlier. The one that sits at one end of the hotels roofline.
Originally built as a smoking box, a place for Victorian gentlemen to sip brandy, smoke cigars and stare at the stars, these days, it has been re-imagined as the Turret Suite. A double room with en-suite and a circular staircase leading up to a positive eagles nest of delights. (Can you see why I’m staying in this room next time I go back?).
At the very top of the turret, this tiny circular space has far reaching views over the city and the sea, with sunshine all round and, joy of joys, a table set for tea. For two.
Reader, it was superb. Worth the trip all by itself. The icing on the top, of this tasty wedding cake, of a hotel. There was everything you could possibly hope for in an awesome afternoon tea. Champagne, strawberries, scones, cream and enough sandwiches and tidbits to sink a small armada of the ships on view nearby. All served up by our very own sweet and lovely waiting person, Kayla.
Which brings me to another enormous plus for this hotel. The staff. They’re lovely. A smiling, happy band of sweet souls who are just, well, lovely. At all times.
Conclusion
If you ever fancy a sip of the Plymouth spirit, in a space soaked in history, with a side order of awesome afternoon tea. Well, this gorgeous blushing bride of a hotel could be just what you’re looking for!
FAQ’s
How much does it cost to stay?
Weekend rate for 2 adults starts from £80 a night.
How much does Tea at the Top cost?
It costs £110 for two and is available on Mondays & Sundays between March and September
