The City Gate launches in Exeter
Last Thursday the City Gate hosted an official launch party to celebrate the venue’s new look.
Formerly known as the Crown and Sceptre, the boutique pub-hotel is literally laced into the fabric of the ancient city of Exeter and has been welcoming guests since it first opened in 1778.
Transformed, following an extensive refurbishment by renowned pub, hotel and bar group Young’s, The City Gate offers everything from a pint of real ale to after-work cocktails, a leisurely weekend brunch to a three-course dinner and, with 14 boutique bedrooms, a stylish place to lay your head.
Pub & Dining Room
A modern British menu is served from sunrise to sunset in the elegantly designed dining room, bar-side lounge and garden-view conservatory. Begin the day with brunch muffins topped with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce; or a traditional Full English. The main menu features seasonal dishes using British ingredients, locally sourced where possible. Classic pub dishes such as Young’s Bitter battered cod and triple-cooked chips sit alongside chef specials including pan-roasted Elston Farm lamb rump with wilted wild garlic and purple sprouting broccoli; and baked Brixham hake fillet with garlic and lemon butter and samphire. Sharing platters, small plates, door stop sandwiches and superfood salads also feature.
Garden
The pub’s beautiful garden backs onto Exeter’s ancient Roman city wall and, with a covered area and outside heaters, is an idyllic spot for relaxed al fresco drinking or dining, whatever the weather.
Cellar Bar
Previously the domain of the pub’s wine store, The Cellar Bar is for those in the know. This secret hideaway with its dark wood and exposed brick walls finished with unusual artwork, is the place to enjoy a craft cocktail whilst watching a spot of sport.
Bedrooms
The City Gate’s stylish bedrooms are individually designed using shades of soft grey and teal with highlights of mustard yellow. The bedrooms pay reference to Exeter’s historical 19th century trading port and the prominent part it played within the UK textile industry with design touches such as nautical-inspired rope lamps and vintage Sawyer sewing machines. Amenities include Nespresso coffee machines, luxury toiletries from Algotherm, hairdryers and laptop safes as well as super comfortable beds complete with crisp cotton linen and plush pillows. Extra touches come in the form of a welcoming glass of vintage port, hand-made Devon fudge and fresh milk in the fridge. A choice of double, twin and family rooms means something to suit all.
The City Gate
Iron Bridge, Lower North Street
Exeter, EX4 3RB
F: citygateexeter T: @citygateexeter I: @citygateexeter
