For one guest, SH became the backdrop for a journey of restoration, embracing solitude without anxiety. Here's how we welcomed Hattie and helped her find her roots, with a renewed connection to Devon.

A Journey Back Home

Hattie, a woman in her late 50s, checked into the hotel on a bleak January afternoon. She had mentioned, on booking, that she had grown up in Exeter but now lived in London - which Jack had noted. During check in, she was very open that following a recent (and not very easy) breakup, she felt a pull to return to the landscapes of her youth, seeking comfort in familiar surroundings and nostalgia. Her parents had brought her up here; her mother’s family was local, through and through.

Finding Sanctuary at Southernhay House

From the moment Hattie arrived, our priority was to create an environment for her to feel both at ease and inspired. You might be surprised the know how much background information we take on board during booking, and afterwards - and how much we enjoy getting it ‘just right’ for our guests, especially where there are factors which make their trip less than lighthearted. SH is ideal for solo travellers seeking tranquility and connection.

We began by showing her to her room, a blend of classic elegance and contemporary comfort. The large sash windows overlooked historic Southernhay, and soft, muted colours created a soothing atmosphere. A handwritten note and a box of local Devon fudge awaited her, welcoming her home.

Reconnecting with Memories

To help her reconnect with her childhood in Devon, we curated experiences that bridged past and present:

1.        A Walk Down Memory Lane
After learning she loved the countryside as a child, we suggested a morning walk along the River Exe. We provided her with a map, but also shared a tip about taking the Exe Estuary Trail, which combines coastal views with charming villages. Hattie walked through to Exmouth and returned glowing, reminiscing about childhood picnics. (At our suggestion, she had taken the train back!)

2.        Reviving Nostalgia with Local Flavours
At dinner on the first evening, we assigned Hannah to walk through the menus with Hattie: we wanted to highlight for her our local suppliers and suggest some of the comfort dishes that she might have enjoyed in the 70s: a ragout made with slow cooked Exmoor lamb, and apple crumble with custard - Hattie said this especially took her back to her grandmother’s kitchen. Paired with a glass of Sharpham Pinot Noir, it was a feast for the soul.

3.        Creative Journaling by Candlelight
Recognising her reflective mood, we set up a cozy corner by the stove in the Green Room for an evening of journaling. A soft blanket, herbal tea, and the ambient glow of candles made it a perfect moment for introspection.

Empowering the Solo Traveler

Traveling alone can be both empowering and intimidating. We aimed to make Hattie’s stay seamless and fulfilling by addressing her needs with care and attention:

•    We highlighted Exeter's solo-friendly spots, like the independent shops on Gandy Street and the historic Exeter Cathedral, where she could explore at her own pace.

•    She took a yoga class at the nearby Lotus Loft, followed by reflexology with Sarah, at Left Field, just a few steps away from the hotel. These moments of self-care helped her release tension and reconnect with her body.

•    On Hattie’s last evening, she opted for room service—a luxurious bath, soft music, and a delicious meal delivered to her door. We added a sprig of dried lavender and a couple of books about Exeter for her to browse, a thoughtful gesture to honour her time alone.

A Farewell

When she checked out, Hattie thanked us for providing a space where she could grieve and heal in equal measure. After she left, one of our housekeeping staff found this note in her room:

"This was more than a trip—it was a return to myself. Southernhay House will always be my Devon home. Thank you for the care and kindness."

Why Solo Travel Heals

Solo travel is more than a getaway; it’s a way to reconnect with your inner world. For Hattie, Southernhay House became a sanctuary, blending Devon’s timeless charm with the joy of solo exploration.

Whether you’re rediscovering your roots, stepping into new experiences, or simply finding solace in your own company, we aim to make your journey unforgettable. For those traveling alone, know this: at Southernhay House, you’re never truly alone.