This time of year is traditionally characterised by tinsel-decorated trees; mince pies; present-giving; a turkey dinner (or two) and of course carols.
This year you can once again delight in the sounds of a fabulous selection of sing along classics at the Dementia Friendly Carol Service; it’s being held on Wednesday 11th December.
You can listen to your favourite carols and hear some lovely readings from some very special guests.
St Pauls Church in Stonehouse will be the host of this very special concert. Although everyone is welcome, it’s also perfect for people living with, or caring for those with Dementia.
The event starts at 3pm, and just as the songs used to bring people together many hundreds of years ago, the magic will be clear to see when you attend this amazing service.
Singing carols at Christmas with those that you love, brings families and friends together over Christmas time. But for some with Dementia, the music makes them feel connected to a time period or a memory that they can associate with that song. This then creates a magic with every note.
To find out more you can email: transformingplymouthtogether.org.uk or call: 07710096210
As a city, Plymouth has proudly played a key role in many historic moments. With the 28th November 1919 one of those moments in history. It was a monumental day for both Plymouth and Women. The day marks Nancy Astor being elected to represent Plymouth Sutton in Parliament. Nancy Astor won her Plymouth seat in 1919. She was still then the only female MP in the Commons for two years after.
The 28th November 2019 will now also go into the history books. It was a truly emotional day, even the weather couldn’t rain on the cities parade. A statue honouring the first female MP, Lady Nancy Astor, was unveiled. Just moments away from Strathmore House Apartments on Elliot Terrace, a century after she was voted in.
In honour of the pioneering MP, former prime minister Theresa May unveiled a bronze statue near Lady Astor’s former family home.
On the same day, Lady Astor was also commemorated with a Great Western Railway. A train was named after her and travelled from London Paddington to Plymouth. Plymouth City Bus also now has a bus which not only celebrates her in it’s fine art work on the outside; but inside celebrates all the great women in and around our city thereafter.
Mrs May told the hundreds-strong crowd that she was “honoured” to be unveiling the statue. She also said she was “especially pleased to do so, as our country’s second female prime minister”.
The statue was sculpted by artist Hayley Gibbs after £125,000 was raised through crowdfunding by the Nancy Astor Statue Appeal. Practically in the ‘back-yard’ of Strathmore House Apartments it is a truly magnificent work of art; but also telling a truly gripping tale. Well worth a see!
Plymouth in January is beautiful. It’s rugged, romantic and occasionally stormy; making it perfectly matched with our homely apartments, where you can snuggle in after a blowy walk along the ocean.
The Barbican and its cobbles are lined with cafes serving warming hot chocolate. There are bars for a glass of red wine and Plymouth Gin offering amazing tours of their distillery. The shopping district is full of high street brands as well as cute boutiques, with exceptional January sales. Restaurants serve seasonal dishes and it’s a relaxed time of year to enjoy every mouthful. Plymouth in January has a sense of calm and new beginnings in the air as an exciting New Year starts.
Contrary to what many people believe about Plymouth in winter, there is so much beauty this time of year not to be missed, fuse this with our lowest rates of the year and you have the perfect break away!
Here are just two of our favourite things about Plymouth in January:
On The Sea
Plymouth is a city which although in Devon, is just a stones throw from Cornwall. January is the perfect month to explore and enjoy both counties, using the sea!
Torpoint Ferry
The Torpoint Ferry connects Plymouth with Cornwall, a service that has stood the test of time! Smaller boats used to ferry people and goods across from Cornwall to England and although the ferry shares no resemblance to the old ones; the journey is like going back in time.
The toll aboard the Torpoint Ferry is payable one way, on the trip from Torpoint (Cornwall) to Plymouth (Devon) except for motorcycles which are tolled from Plymouth (Devon) to Torpoint (Cornwall). There is no charge for pedestrians or pedal cyclists. For anyone exploring this part of the county by car, it is well worth a visit to the nearby Kingsand and Cawsand Bay, with many other breathtaking stops along the way.
Cremyll Ferry
Take a trip on the historic foot ferry from Stonehouse to The Rame Peninsula, known as, Cornwall’s forgotten corner. Loved for centuries by all who have travelled on her, the Cremyll Ferry is one of Plymouth’s true gems and provides a gateway to discover this beautiful part of the South West.
Our eight minute ferry journey crosses the River Tamar, against the spectacular backdrop of Royal William Yard and Plymouth Sound. (The winter timetable runs from October-March)
Mount Batten Ferry
The Mount Batten Ferry operates between the Barbican and Mount Batten all year round. Operating every 30 mins, departing from the Barbican quarter past and quarter to the hour, Mount Batten on the hour and half hour.
Whilst in Mount Batten you could visit the Mount Batten Watersports & Activity Centre. It is one of the foremost Outdoor Education centres in the South West. The Centre commands stunning views looking out towards Plymouth’s historic Barbican area, the Hoe and across to Mount Edgcumbe. It is perfectly situated on the tidal estuary of The Sound, making it an ideal, and safe, location for the thousands of people, of all ages, that use the Centre each year – whether for recreational or professional use.
(Re-opens after the Christmas Break on the 2nd January)
Coastal walks and sunsets
(Image: Penny Cross)
There’s something about sunsets.They are romantic, inspiring and utterly Instagram-able! So why don’t we make more time to watch them? Make that time this January and witness the calming, beautiful moments here in Plymouth. As a city by the sea, we are so fortunate to be able to watch the changing colours in the sky, all with the sea as its very own personal mirror.
Restaurants with decks, balconies and floor to ceiling windows allow those who are not so up for braving the elements, to view in the warmth but still not moss a thing.
You will be overcome with those moments where you think to yourself ‘the best things in life really are free’. Every city gets them, yet each one is unique in its own way. Plymouth is by far our favourite city by the sea to enjoy walks and sunsets a plenty! So, pack your walking boots and a camera, you don’t want to miss out on these natural beauties!
Check our rates and availability for January now, and make your plans to start 2020 the right way.
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.
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.
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.”
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!
On 31 October 2019, Plymouth City Centre Company is offering just that, an amazing opportunity to try out FREE yoga; taking place in the upstairs space of The Treasury Bar, Plymouth, just a stones throw away from Strathmore House Apartments.
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!
Remember to give yourself some extra time to enjoy something delicious from their new menu afterwards!
Located upstairs at The Treasury Bar, session timings are; 10:00-10:45, 11:00-11:45, 13:00-13:45 and 14:00-14:45
YOGA MATS & CHANGING FACILITIES ARE PROVIDED / AVAILABLE FOR EVERYONE!
Upstairs space @ The Treasury Bar, Catherine Street, PLYMOUTH, Devon, PL1 2AD
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!
Here at Strathmore House Apartments we LOVE to celebrate … and celebrate we will!
This year marks a very special occasion. 2019 brings us the SILVER anniversary of Heritage Open Days. For two and a half amazing decades, Heritage Open Days has shared historical and cultural greatness.
Heritage Open Days…
Established in 1994 as England’s contribution to the European Heritage Days, each September over 40,000 volunteers across England all contribute to over 5,000 events! These events celebrate and showcase our fantastic, rich and diverse history and culture; giving everyone amazing opportunities to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
It is growing year on year and is already the country’s largest heritage festival and enjoyed by all of us. A national campaign that encompassing a huge range of heritage events and attractions.
Heritage Open Days has not only highlighted hidden gems and celebrates England’s riches, but also gives people the opportunity to come together and share the stories and history that matter the most to us all.
We have so much history on our doorstep, Heritage Open Days is the perfect platform to explore. It gives everyone a free way to learn and to get involved with everything that is on offer. There is so much that is rich and meaningful about our region, and of course our days gone by.
Find Out more…
To find out more visit their website: Heritage Open Days and to stay with us whilst you explore our history check our availability here.
Have fun delving into yesterday, whilst making memories that will last a lifetime.
Plymouth is etched in the heart of everyone that has visited, who lives here and who works in our beautiful city by the sea.
Like a stick of rock, they say if a ‘Plymouthian’ was to be cut open, there would be Plymouth Pride running through their veins!
So this summer, we will be asking our amazing team here at Strathmore House Apartments to give a chapter, in less than 500 words, on what Plymouth means to them.
First up…
Elinor Eaton, Development Manager at Strathmore House Apartments, Plymouth.
The power of a Plymouth holiday isn’t just what it gives you; it’s what it takes from you too!
The Perfect holiday destination…Plymouth. And perhaps the greatest natural anti-depressant the world has to offer.
In a life that is far more hectic than ever before there is, in my humble opinion, nothing quite as relaxing, refreshing, revitalising or releasing as escaping to the sight of the sea and to Plymouth.
Picture this if you will…
The sun shining on your skin and warming it gentle as the breeze clips your curls. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore, gently brushing the pebbles. Seagulls chanting overhead. The smell of perfectly brewed Devon Coffee beans and freshly baked pastries from the pier side cafes. The clinking of ice in a tall glass of Plymouth Gin & Tonic … and the thought of a few blissful days of nothing but this … on repeat!
Tell me. Could there be anything better?
United, your senses become alive and your hectic everyday a thing of the past. All you have threaded through your next few every days is the release of your tense shoulders, your clenched teeth and your worry frowns. Nothing will be more real than having a darling time by our seaside. Nothing will be more freeing that what our seaside gives but what it takes away too!
Imagine life as a deep sea dive. Coming to the surface for a deep intake of air, filling your lungs to then duck your head back under again.
We take the air to survive, but we forget how to thrive.
A common occurrence in the 21st century. Our previous generations before us working only to live, now it feels as if we live only to work.
How do we get the balance right?
We get the balance by not just visiting Plymouth, but learning from it too. It may feel like a break, an escape from the frantic city pace, into a less rapid way of life. But thanks to our amazing city, we can all learn how to bring the sea spirit – back to the city streets.
How we can take a moments breath not just for survival but to appreciate the view, the moment and the time. All precious and all too often forgotten.
A holiday in Plymouth isn’t just a holiday.
Our rich past is in every footstep we take. Our amazing vista on every corner we turn. The sea air in every rich breath that we take.
We can all learn something from Britain’s Ocean City, but don’t just come here to find something. Come to Plymouth to lose something too. Lose the tight chest. The panicked soul and the stress in your veins and let Plymouth wash it all away.
There really is a little magic in the Plymouth air!
The fun of the circus is almost upon us – we can not wait!
It will be in Plymouth City Centre on Saturday 6 July. It really will be all the fun of the circus and what’s more; IT’S FREE!
There will be a stage and an aerial rig in the Piazza; with a programme packed full of fun between 11am to 3pm on Saturday 6 July. The NEW Plymouth Summer Circus event will have sensational performers. There will be trapeze artists, jugglers, sword swallowers, fire breathers, and unicyclists. You will be entertained for HOURS!
Throughout the day, Higher Beings will also be offering circus skills workshops so you can give it a go for yourself! The workshops will give you the chance to have fun and test yourself on a free-standing tightrope and a freestanding slackline. Or choose to stay with your feet firmly on the ground with their circus equipment.
A SUMMER FULL OF FUN…
Plymouth Summer Circus marks the start of Plymouth Summer of Fun. This welcomes the start of a wide range of family friendly events that are taking place in the city centre every weekend during the summer holidays.
Activities taking place throughout the summer include free ping pong sessions, street entertainers, dance performances and so much more. Plymouth is coming alive for the entire family to enjoy in our City By The Sea This Summer.
