On our way down to Cornwall we did the journey in one however on the way back we decided to break it with a night in Exeter. Having previously done this I know that it can really extend that feeling of a mini break it’s about squeezing that time away from home and Exeter is a great pitstop – though not to be overlooked as a destination itself. Our hotel for the night was The City Gate Hotel, less than a 10 minute stroll from Exeter Central station.
The welcome homemade brownies and glass of port were a lovely touch (and ridiculously tasty) although I’m now on the hunt for a good port, as it seems just one sip was enough for me to develop a taste!
We stayed in room number one – a boutique double – which is right by the staircase, we were concerned it might be noisy however it was exceptionally quiet, we had a beautiful view of the street and the hill ahead; really quite picturesque with both of us getting a great night’s sleep which was perfect for an early start as we headed back to London.
The king size bed was supremely comfortable, something I don’t say lightly – a hotel bed has to work hard for my praise and this one met the mark.
The bathroom had a double shower, that was very powerful and very hot; most welcome after walking over twenty five miles the over the past two days during our adventures in Cornwall.
Breakfast wasn’t included in our booking but is served from 7am each morning downstairs. Top tip: it does seem initially quite expensive but if you order your dishes individually it’s not as expensive as advertised. Service was speedy especially once we said we had a train to catch – we had a breakfast roll and French toast, no photos as we were really keen to ensure we didn’t miss our train, but take it from me: they were both delicious.
The City Gate Hotel whilst part of the Young‘s group (a brand I really like however like all brands it takes effort to not feel cookie cutter in it’s offering) feels personable and small enough to deliver that ‘just one night getaway’ feeling.
And Exeter even though I say it has more to offer than a pitstop onto destinations further afield or return home that’s exactly how I treated the city on my last two encounters so here’s me insuring the next time I visit I stay more than just one night.
