Mercure Exeter Southgate celebrates £2m investment
The Mercure Exeter Southgate hotel today celebrated the completion of a £2 million investment project, transforming the interior of the city centre hotel.
The final phase of the extensive refurbishment completes the redesign of the reception, Gate House restaurant, bar, lounge, terrace and all 156 bedrooms.
The redesign has been inspired by the famous Exeter Book, an incredibly precious Anglo-Saxon tome housed at Exeter Cathedral. Written in 970 AD, the manuscript contains the world’s oldest and largest collection of Old English poetry.
Elements of the Exeter Book can be seen throughout the hotel. Woven into carpets in the bar and lounge are sections of Old English type from the manuscript, whilst lampshades and cushions depict individual gargoyles from the cathedral. A Domesday map has been re-created in the lobby area.
Fiona Dardé, Hotel Manager said: “We wanted to create a ‘wow’ space and a vibrant and friendly atmosphere that is true to the hotel’s enviable position in the very heart of historic Exeter.
“We pride ourselves on offering our guests the perfect mix of style, comfort and city centre convenience, and that approach has very much helped drive this significant investment in taking the hotel to the next level. Initial feedback from guests has been brilliant.”
The hotel, in Southernhay East, is close to the Cathedral, Princesshay shopping area and the historic Exeter Quay.
Embracing the local influence of the Exeter Book, all 156 bedrooms have been refurbished over the past few years, including three executive suites, each having a king size bed, living room, dressing area and bathroom with walk in shower and air conditioning.
The fully refurbished Gate House restaurant and bar boasts à la carte and fixed menu dining, featuring the very best of Devon food and drink. Fish is sourced from Brixham and local meats from Exeter and other local premium suppliers. A new 24-hour menu has also been introduced.
The ‘Flavours from the Cellar’ wine list includes wines and beers from vineyards and breweries across the South West, selected by experts from BBC’s Saturday Kitchen show.
The health and leisure club has also enjoyed a revamp, including new equipment and fittings, whilst the hotel’s spa facility offers an 18-metre indoor heated pool, sauna and fitness room.
Extensive business facilities include seven multi-purpose meeting rooms, with conference facilities for up to 180 people, including advanced digital AV facilities and free onsite parking for all corporate guests.
Tamsyn Parsons, the hotel’s sales manager, said: “Our aim is to always give guests a wonderful experience whether they are staying with us for a city break, on business, dining or simply enjoying a drink in the bar or restaurant or making use of the leisure facilities.
“We are delighted with the new look and feel, and our passion remains - to make sure people’s time at the Mercure Exeter Southgate exceeds their expectations and leaves lasting happy memories.”
Derek Philips, Chairman of the Heart of Devon Tourism Partnership, added: “The Heart of Devon welcomes 179,000 visitors every year who spend £96 million in the local economy. Exeter’s events calendar is a big driver in terms of demand for accommodation in the city centre and we're in for a busy year with Exeter being a host city for the Rugby World Cup 2015.
“The completion of the refurbishment of the Mercure Exeter is a significant boost to local tourism and a huge support to local businesses, and it’s great that the fantastic design is Exeter-inspired.”
Guests booking direct with the hotel, and members of the Le Club loyalty programme, can also now use a new phone and online check in at www.accorhotels.com
