Happy New Year to all.
Well, 2022 has arrived and sadly the C word has not deserted our shores, nor the South West. Like everywhere else, we are back to mask wearing and hand gel – which I think will be the norm for this year coming, at least to some extent.
With the spread of the Omicron and people staying at home it is looking like a poor January and February for accommodation providers. With that in mind, we have made the decision to close from Monday-Thursday for these two months. We are hoping that things will pick up after then, as customers become more able to be confident of the future.
In the meantime, for those that want to take advantage of these quieter times, we are offering two-night stays in our suites at weekends only, for just £100 per night. This is for all of January and February, and of course it includes Helen’s fabulous breakfasts.
And Talking Of Suites
Talking of Suites, we have finished our update of Room 8, with new furniture and a completely refurbished bathroom. We hope you like the new look. We are particularly pleased with the Victorian sink and the metro tiles – which have been laid vertically for something different.
Old Friends
Some of our long-standing customers might well remember the previous owners of The Somerville, Adam and Grant. We are still great friends and here is a photo of us taken on Christmas Eve, getting in the spirit in more ways than I’ll admit here! It’s hard to believe that it’s six years since we took over.
And Talking Of Friends
I was looking back over the year’s photos and one of my favourite shots from our many walks is this one. Taken in November, this is at the top of Haytor on Dartmoor, with myself and my four-legged best friend, Coco.
We Were Right
A quick story. When we were looking at B&Bs in Torquay in 2015 we had a list of things we most wanted for our own one. And number one was a car park for all our guests. Now, six years on, and with The Hilton having built a 100 bedroomed hotel down the road from us with no parking (!), more than ever we understand just how valuable parking is for our guests. In fact, because we have such an excellent local bus service, we often suggest parking up and using the service from Stagecoach. And it’s nice to have been right back in 2015!
Brand Somerville
We always like a bit of (tasteful) branding here at the Somerville. So how could we resist adopting a new look for all the team here at breakfast times!
Just Entertainment
As always I like to give everyone prior notice of some of the great performances coming up at the Princess Theatre here in Torquay, and they do need supporting as they’ve had a harder time than hospitality.
16th – 21st May, We Will Rock You: West End musical with hits from Queen (Written by Ben Elton)
26th May, Bruce Springsteen and his Band (Well, at least the tribute band)
5th June, Jasper Carrott (Stand-up comedy)
10th July, Jane McDonald (No comment from me)
22nd July, Strictly Come Dancing (In Torquay for the night)
23rd July, Illegal Eagles (If you haven’t seen them before, they are fab)
17th September, Don McLean (Must go, if only to hear American Pie)
And there are plenty more shows on their website.
And Finally
Just to mention that the signs are it’s going to be a busy summer again. We’re already filling up fast for June, July and August. Call or email us for availability.