Author: Strathmore House

Break A Leg!

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We all know that no Christmas is complete without a trip to the pantomime for a helping of high camp festive cheer! So, when the Theatre Royal Plymouth announced a sensational Musical would be donning The Lyric stage in November, our winter Cockles started warming instantly!

Tuesday 26th – 30th November 2019…

There is nothing quite like an evening at the theatre. Weather it’s a small 100 seated auditorium or in one of the 1,300-seats in The Lyric. An evening of entertainment and escapism is what we all crave’ and that’s just what’s on offer!

This November there really is the perfect treat. From just £16 a ticket you can be sure of a night of laughs with Nativity! The Musical.

A Very Special cast…

This is not just a show on the stage, this is now part of Plymouth too!

Every child in every school has one Christmas wish, to star in a Nativity. And, following hugely successful open auditions, children from Plymouth will star as the students of ‘Oakmoor School’.

Back …

It’s not just us that sings the Musical praises of this amazing show. This highly acclaimed show wouldn’t be here for a third year if it wasn’t a smash-hit show!

The show is also bringing Dani Dyer to Plymouth!  The actress, author, TV personality, designer and everyone’s favourite girl next door will play ‘Polly Parker’.  At just 23 years old, Dani Dyer has already established herself as one of the UK’s brightest young stars, and this will be the perfect opportunity for her to shine even more brightly as Polly!

There are Matinee Performances, Access Performances and all will be Terrific Performances! So if you are in Plymouth for the last week of November go and check availability NOW!

You will not regret purchasing a ticket to share in the wonder of this sensational story on a stage at the Premier Arts Organisation in the South West.

 

Fun For Everyone This Christmas…

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Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas…In Plymouth!

Plymouth is a remarkable city, so it’s unsurprising that Christmas in Plymouth is extra special.

With just EIGHT Friday’s left before Christmas, we are all getting excited, especially the little ones! To make things even MORE exciting this Festive season is full of family fun in Plymouth’s city centre.

Stay with us here in Plymouth this Christmas 2019 and see the return of three sensational family-friendly events from Plymouth City Centre Company…

Christmas Lights Switch-on, Thursday 14 November

The Christmas Lights Switch-on marks the start of the festive season. This year, the evening will be hosted by Radio Plymouth. There will be performers and groups, including local schools, choirs and Plymouth Party Princesses. The stage on the Piazza will be full of Christmas cheer!

The lights will be switched on at 6.30pm by Santa himself! The Mayflower 400 Town Crier will also be there to assist!  Once the city centre is illuminated, there will be a local four-piece indie, rock and pop band, The Sound.  They will be performing popular tracks from bands such as The Killers, Kings of Leon and Oasis!

Thursday 14 November also marks the start of late-night shopping in the city centre. Many of the shops open later on Thursday evenings in the run-up to Christmas.

Plymouth Christmas Market, Thursday 28 November to Thursday 19 December

From Thursday 28 November, Plymouth Christmas Market will return to the city centre for three weeks (until Thursday 19 December). More than 50 traditional wooden cabins will fill the Piazza, with stallholders from across the South West. Here you can find a great range of products from handmade jewellery and homewares to artwork and clothing.

Some of the region’s favourite food and drink producers will also be in attendance too. Including the English Spirit Distillery, South Devon Chilli Farm, Roly’s Fudge Pantry, Retro Shotz, Ventons Devon Cyder and Loco About Cocoa.

What’s more the Bavarian Bar will return! There will also be a number of street food stands offering delicious treats such as traditional hotdogs and melting cheese raclette. The giant illuminated bauble will also be located at the entrance to the market, acting as the perfect background prop for festive photos.

Every Thursday to Sunday, there will be entertainment to enjoy in the heart of the market too, including local choirs and bands.

Penguins: A LEGO® brick trail, Saturday 30 November to Sunday 5 January

Back by popular demand, Penguins: A LEGO brick trail is  returning to the city centre this Christmas. The trail will run from 30 November to 5 January, with 19 Rockhopper penguins and one Emperor penguin! They are all life size and made out of LEGO bricks!!  The penguins will be hiding all over the city, and if you find all the penguins you can be in with the chance to win incredible prizes! These prizes include a weekend family trip to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort courtesy of Plymouth Citycoach, or a penguin feeding experience at Living Coasts in Torquay for four people.

Steve Hughes, Chief Executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, said:

“There is so much for everyone to enjoy in the city centre this festive season. Not only is there brilliant shopping, with everything from big brand names to unique independents in the West End and Plymouth Market, but there’s so much to keep the entire family entertained.

“Enjoy one of our brilliant festive events, hunt for LEGO brick penguins, take in a show at the Theatre Royal Plymouth or head to Drake Circus The Barcode to enjoy the new restaurants, adventure golf and cinema.”

For more information about Christmas in Plymouth, including full event details and travel information, keep an eye on our News, Views & Reviews Page or head to Visit Plymouth for more information!

 

Lady Nancy Astor On Elliot Street…

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Having a dream is one thing; making it happen is another…

There are people that inspire millions through their bravery, curiosity and life’s work. Individuals that’s difference, is what makes the difference.

They might be artists; CEO’s; authors; scientists; community leaders; athletes … basically, an inspirational person is that someone who challenges the status quo. That someone who thrusts through said limits of human capacities. That someone who evokes wonderment in our hopes, dreams and imaginations.

Someone that has captures our hearts…

One of those people for us is someone who significantly and triumphantly changed Plymouth, Politics and Perceptions forever. She made people, especially women, feel that the possibilities were endless. That any limits which had been put upon them could be surmounted.

In December 1919, Nancy Astor became the first female MP to take her seat in the House of Commons. One seat alongside 706 men. A turning point towards equality and the beginning of a story, a story we are still writing, but a light that sparked possibility for everyone.

This is not only a terrific tale about a women who marched through barriers and who was triumphant in changing the landscape of Politics. This was a women of strength, curiosity, bravery and vision in so many other ways too.

A woman who came from America to the UK after a divorce; who went on to re-marry and have five children. Who supported and empowered her husband to shine. A woman who fell in love with Plymouth and who was proud of the many riches; yet could see even more possibility and potential. A women who swallowed the fear and used her voice, even though at the time it was a voice sharing a very bold message.

Actions speak louder than words…

There are many amazing people that have added to Plymouth’s patchwork; Lady Nancy Astor was one of them.

On November 28th from 12:30pm, there will be a great celebration of the passion and purpose that ran through the veins of this remarkable lady. After a large Crowdfunding campaign, Lady Astor Statue Appeal has unlocked the funding (and the hearts of all) and have built a statue a Lady Astor which will be unveiled on the 28th November.

This will not only commemorate this momentous event where Lady Astor is back in Plymouth, but also celebrate 100 years since the first woman walked the corridors of power, representing the men, women and children of Plymouth.

There will be an AMAZING VIP to unveil the first statue of the first woman in Parliament. There will be so much happening, combined with a truly sensational atmosphere whereby everyone there will be celebrating a century of increased equality, democracy and freedom and a change that the people of Plymouth made happen.

EVERYONE is welcome to see a dream come true on The Hoe, on 28th November, from 12:30pm.

thehistorypress.co.uk

What’s In A City..?

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Welcome to Plymouth.

A green, blue, yellow and grey dazzling patchwork city. A pioneer of marine, culture, engineering, tourism and enterprise. A platform for beauty and eccentricity.

Welcome to our exhilarating and endlessly intriguing city by the sea!

If you haven’t been before, perhaps you are wondering what all the fuss is about! Let us let you into the secret of our city by the sea…

Let’s scratch the surface…

With one of the world most impressive natural harbours and the Mayflower Steps on the blue side. A city regenerated with passion and pride after WW2 bombing on the sparkling grey side. To miles of craggy, beach-fringed coastlines.  Along with heady hills, moody moorland and wonderful woodlands on the green side; Britain’s Ocean City is more than just one colour – it’s a never-ending feast for the eyes and soul!

There is a lot to see and do, but there is just one perfect base to see all of it; Strathmore House Apartments!

Location

Just moments away from our 1,2,3 & 4 bedroomed serviced apartments are the Barbican’s cobbled streets. Then, a stone’s throw stands Smeatons Tower, proudly watching over The Hoe. There are trendsetting shops on the high street, with cafés and restaurants filling the air with the aroma of fresh, seasonal ingredients being cooked to perfection.

Living History

Plymouth’s story stretches back to the Bronze Age! Between now and the so much of Plymouth’s make-up has been pioneering. For instance, in 1254 it gained status as a town and in 1439, became the first town in England to be granted a Charter by Parliament. The city is also awash, both from our past and in our present of inventors, eccentrics, dreamers and entrepreneurs. We are a city that is in constant pursuit of opportunity, survival but also revival.

It’s fascinating to think that Plymouth connects to some of the all-time greats; Charles Darwin, Lady Nancy Astor, John Foulston, Brunnel and Sir Francis Drake – these name just a few!

It’s not the biggest city in the world, but it packs a rich and impressive history into its pint-sized shores!

Urban Experiences

Our city centre is also not to be shunted; yes our vista is exceptional but our shopping and food offer is amazing too. The Barbican and City Centre encompass everything from top name brands to quirky and impressive independents. Plymouth is a trend-setter, a history-maker and game changer when it comes to fashion and style, in parts thanks to the amazing creative scene. There is a varied urban landscape to explore in and around Plymouth too, with clusters of smaller areas like Plymstock, Stoke and Devonport that offer their own history and amazing opportunities for unique and bespoke retail therapy!

Wherever you find yourself in and around Plymouth, expect urban adventures aplenty.

Cultural Everywhere  

Art is seen by some as a luxury. To Plymouth, Art and Culture is seen as an everyday in every way!

2020 is a big year for the cultural scene in Plymouth. It commemorates the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s journey to America. Plymouth is using this milestone to connect education, military, sports, tourism and business sectors to the core of many of the celebrations; and the Plymouth Culture scene is right there too!

The Mayflower 400 commemorations have many partners who are working together to help artists and arts organisations in Plymouth’s cultural sector create projects which explore the Mayflower 400 story.

Plymouth really is the cultural centre of Devon and Cornwall and there is always something to enjoy in Plymouth no matter what the day, week, month or year! From amazing art to family fun, brilliant music to fabulous festivals and plenty of historic attractions.

Plymouth has been the home to legendary artists such as Beryl Cook, Robert Lenkiewicz and Sir Joshua Reynolds. It’s a platform and springboard that connects young, fresh new talent to the world and not forgetting that Plymouth has a thriving art scene of its own.

There are independent galleries, regular public events including outdoor theatre productions, open-air cinemas, and arts and crafts markets. Upon every twist and turn is a cultural explosion of Art, Theatre, Live Performances, Galleries and more. An offer so diverse and eclectic you can’t be anything but amazed.

Our city is truly inspiring and beautiful, with kindness and pride at the core. If you haven’t been to Britain’s Ocean City that you really need to plan your trip now! Stay with us; we’ll help you explore and fall in love with our city by the sea.

Illuminate Plymouth | 28th November – 1st December 2019

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Plymouth is an ambitious and inspiring city…

Britain’s Ocean City is full of beauty and innovation at every turn; Plymouth always has something wonderful to see, do or be part of. One of those ‘things’ is an event that has quickly become one of the city’s best-love FREE out door event…

Illuminate…

Illuminate Plymouth welcomes thousands of people of all ages each year to Plymouth. It runs across four FABULOUS days and has added a real richness to Plymouth’s dynamic and eclectic programme of events and activities.

It’s a series of dazzling installations and projections that make Plymouth shine brightly. The festival also provides the most vibrant, fun and inspiring experience for EVERYONE!

This year it will run from 28th November – 1st December from the festival centre at Royal William Yard.

BUT WAIT! This year there is more…

New for 2019 there will be additional light installations across the city at the Barbican, the Watefront and Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park.

Illuminate is a free event and is open to everyone and a stunning event for people of all ages.

The installations can be viewed by boat, on foot or  bike. You can wander around and explore the works at your leisure, or perhaps follow one of the dedicated routes which enhance the experience.

This 4-day event will open the Mayflower 400 commemorations and is inspired by the values of freedom, humanity, imagination, and future. The festival offers a host of workshops, installations, performances and projections with various opportunities for you to take part in activities or simply wonder at the spectacular illuminations.

Awe-inspiring…

Claire Honey, Project Manager for the festival, said: “In 2018, Illuminate stunned with incredible light installations, interactive artworks and spectacular projections from local, national and international artists. The festival was enjoyed by over 28,000 people across the four days. Now a multi-site festival we’re really excited to welcome new artists creating awe-inspiring light art to inspire visitors of all ages.”

Adrian Vinken OBE, Chair Mayflower 400 and Destination Plymouth, said: “Growing on the back of previous years’ festivals Illuminate has become a real highlight in Plymouth’s annual events calendar. It’s such a special event and we’re thrilled that this year it will act as the opening moment of the Mayflower 400 commemorations, not just in Plymouth but across the whole country.”

 

FREE City Centre Yoga Sessions…

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Plymouth yoga

There Is Still TIME! 

We love to be able to share the many amazing riches on offer in Plymouth with our guests.  Some of those are beautiful sites, others are amazing events and some of those are sensational activities and opportunities!

Led again by Sian Ridpath of Yoga at the Gardens; you are in the safest of hands! Sian is a yoga instructor with over 200 hours of teacher training and certified by the Yoga Alliance. This is an opportunity NOT to miss!  To book your free place on one of the 4 sessions, click here. But be quick!

Oh I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside…

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plymouth sound

There is nothing that makes you smile more than a holiday. Make that a holiday in Plymouth and your smile gets a whole heap bigger! But being by the sea isn’t just a ‘nice’ thing to do…it’s a healthy thing too!

Plymouth is one of the single most beautiful coastal landscapes in the South of England; but it’s also a tonic.

Visiting Plymouth is GOOD FOR YOU. Our city by the sea has several really fantastic benefits to your health and well-being. Here are our top THREE reasons why Plymouth isn’t just a beautiful choice; it’s a healthy one too.

A Great Night’s Sleep…

Being by the sea really helps if you’re a light sleeper or you struggle to fall asleep. The sea air is cleaner and fresher and so with the higher levels of oxygen, it really can improve sleep.

What’s more, studies have proven that it’s not only the sea air, but the sea sounds too. The noise of the ocean is soothing for your brain. So, hearing the waves and the noises of the sea can not only help you relax, but it can help clear your mind, lower stress and strengthen your immune system.

There is also something in appreciating the vastness of the ocean, like the nights sky. It can help put things into perspective; those niggling small worries float away as you gaze in awe at the waves and the horizon.

Plug Into the Ions Not The Iphones…

There is something we should all take advantage of when we are holidaying beside the sea, the negative ions in the air!

Negative ions increase your sense of well-being and mental clarity by removing the debilitating effects of excessive positive ions in your environment. They are often described as a natural antidepressant.

In our every days, we are exposed to so much; computers, television and electronics; we are surrounded by a lot of positive ions. So, when on holiday in Plymouth take an hour without your  phones and gadgets and increase your exposure to negative ions. It will enhance your immune system, increase alertness and improve your concentration.

Beauty Brings Out The Active In You …

Holidaying by the sea is like having the most amazing treadmill! You will just want to walk the coast line and soak up the vista.  Especially here in Plymouth.

When you walk along the World-famous Plymouth Hoe Promenade, it really is quite breath-taking.  There are a number of really amazing walks and cycle routes in and around Plymouth and once you start, you wont want to stop!

If you can see yourself holidaying by the sea; then join us here at Strathmore House Apartments. The perfect home away from home in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City. 

5 Reasons Why We All Need Date Nights…

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Make The Moments…

We don’t need the countless studies by researchers, marriage counsellors and the like to know that taking time out with the one you love is essential for our happiness within a relationship.

Whether you have been together for 6 months or 6 years,  it’s easy to lose romance and feel distant from your lover.

Sometimes it can feel like you house share and occupy the same calendar from time to time, instead of feeling that close connection we all long for. What makes things even harder is the fast pace of life. Juggling work, children, in-laws and the endless commitments we have when trying to adult!

We need to stop making excuses and set aside a little time to spend with the one we love. That way, our relationships will be happier, stronger and more fun! 

Here at Strathmore House Apartments we love hearing about our guests who are making the time to take time for a romantic break away.

It doesn’t have to be costly either; for just £70 a night, a one bedroom apartment can make the perfect nest to reconnect.

It may be hard to schedule a date night once a week, or even once a month due to work, babysitters and life; but a short break away once a year … well that could be the perfect remedy.

We play Cupid here at Strathmore House Apartments and share the top FIVE reasons why we think a romantic break away is just what the LOVE Doctor ordered…

Reconnecting…

Sometimes you can be plagued with loneliness even in a relationship. This is no ones fault. Sadly it’s just life. However a romantic date night or weekend break allows couples to stay current with each other’s lives. Many couples are very busy, with little together time, so it’s important to catch up on what has been going on in one another’s lives. This can help each spouse support the other but also grow together; being stronger and more united.

A much needed break…

Even though we love our children, we still need a break from them sometimes! We all need some ‘adult’ alone time. What’s more, there is nothing wrong or selfish about it! It’s nice to have time one on one, where you don’t have to worry about household chores, cooking or little ears listening! It’s nice to take a step back from the bills and important life choices that are always encompassing us and take a break; but most importantly laugh while you love, have fun and make memories!

Rekindle the spark…

Date nights are for remembering why you fell in love in the firs place. If you don’t go on dates often, then a weekend treat away is the perfect time to get the sparks flying again! One on one time can remind you of what life was like before children, washing baskets and empty fridges! Stress brings out the worst in everyone, so at Strathmore House Apartments we keep stress at the door so you can concentrate on fun.

Fill your love tank…

Sometimes you don’t realise your love tank is empty until it’s too late! A date in the diary for a couple of days away will help both of you to get through the everyday; ready for the one day. Getting away fills your ‘love tank’ so you can navigate the stresses of life together, ready for the next time!

Lead by example…

One of the most important things about a happy relationship is the lessons it bestows on our little ones. When children see  relationships are important, they  grow up with a great bench mark for their own relationships.  By seeing you go on dates; by seeing you come back happy, knowing that you are in a loving relationship, it helps them see that positive relationships are important. When children see this, it really helps them develop independence, self esteem and a good understanding of what well-being looks like.

Your Romantic Break Away …

Whether you live 5 minutes down the road or 5 hours up the motorway; Strathmore House Apartment is the perfect setting for a romantic break away. Two nights in a one bedroom apartment can cost as little as £140. There is everything you need and more and the location is perfect. Plus you have free access to Club Continental where you can start the relaxing and unwinding and chill-out together. With everything on your doorstep, you can walk holding hands; stop for a coffee (or wine) and just enjoy some you time.

Check availability and make that date – your heart deserves it.

Just Your Cup Of Tea …

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For nearly five thousand years, people have been enjoying tea, but nothing really says ‘British’ quite like a ‘cuppa’!

As a nation, we have been drinking it for over 350 years! So, it should have come as no surprise that our guests favourite tipple whilst on holiday was …

*DRUM ROLL PLEASE*

Tea of course … (followed swiftly by Plymouth Gin of course!)

Here at Strathmore House Apartments we love a cup of tea! And we find it fascinating how personal tea drinking can be! A dash of milk here, a lot of milk there, a hint or a heap of sugar… It’s intriguing to think that one drink can offer so much variation! No matter how you drink your tea though; tea remains the most widely consumed beverage in the entire world.  With the British famously believing that almost anything can be cured by a cup!

As we can never be too far removed from holidays or Plymouth, we realised that there was an interesting parallel between tea and Strathmore House Apartments!

Like tea, Strathmore House Apartments are the perfect demonstration of how one single thing can feel bespoke and tailor made for every single one …

 

A Short Break…

You can stay with us for just two nights and still have a wonderful time exploring the beauty of Plymouth. Our location means that you are in the centre of all the action. You can absorb all the sights and sounds of Plymouth’s enchantment. Within very close proximity to the town centre, the amazing shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment, all within walking distance and just a short stroll.

At Strathmore House Apartments you are on the doorstep and perfectly central to the plethora of riches on offer in Plymouth.

A Longer Stay…

Strathmore House Apartments offer the perfect accommodation base for a longer stay in Plymouth. Whether you are relocating, waiting for a house sale to go through or just want to set up a temporary base on Plymouth; we have 1,2,3 and 4 bedroom apartments perfect for a transitory home.

Set within the historic, Victorian building, the stunning architecture is twinned with the high quality interiors providing the perfect union of traditional style and contemporary luxury.

Plymouth really is a city that will spoil you, and Strathmore House Apartments are situated on beautiful Elliot Street, the area is home to some breathtaking Victorian architecture and alive with history; which continues to provide us with a calming rhythm, sincere sense of style and everlasting elegance of the era.

The Barcode Is Coming …

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The Barcode…

A £53million cinema and restaurant complex here in Plymouth is a lot more than just an oversized looking barcode! This amazing complex will house a 12-screen Cineworld IMAX 4DX cinema – the first IMAX in Devon and Cornwall! It will also be home to Paradise Island Adventure Golf and some new restaurants too.

If you already thought Plymouth was packed with wonder, then this monochromatic wonderland will simply add to the amazing array of activities that Britain’s Ocean City has to offer.

What a week…

The first wave of opening will be on October 21st when Five guys, Nando’s and Zizzi open their doors. Then on October 22nd Cineworld and Cosy Club will follow. By Thursday 24th October Paradise Island Adventure Golf will open; and to add to the excitement Drake Circus will be changing their opening hours too!

From Monday 21st October Plymouth’s Drake Circus will be extending their hours so visitors can really make the most of the leisure offer here in our stunning city by the sea.

The new hours will be:

Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri and Sat 9.30am-7pm

Thu 9.30am-8pm

Sun 11am-5pm

Drake Circus The Barcode will span more than 100,000 sq ft and will offer an additional element to our visitors’ itineraries when they are staying in Britain’s Ocean City.

Perhaps one of Plymouth’s most vast demonstrations of figure-ground; the building has already settled into the skyline and when you next visit, it will surely be worth a scan!