New Continental Hotel, Millbay Road, Plymouth, PL1 3LD

Tel: 01752 276798

A Festive Feast, Carols & Company …

Good Tidings We Bring…

Very few people can say they have never felt lonely. Loneliness is by no means only a feeling felt by people who are getting older. Yet it’s certainly NOT an inevitable part of ageing. However, for some as they get older, they have less people around them who can lift their spirits and give them time.

As life blesses us with more fabulous years; so too comes with it difficult life events that many experience as they get older; such as bereavement, illness or reducing mobility. These can all be triggers that can cause isolation and so the feeling of loneliness can creep in.

Christmas is a time for many of us filled with family, joy and laughter. But for some Christmastime can heighten their feelings of loneliness.

Plymouth Live, together with Age UK Plymouth, will not only be raising awareness of loneliness and the feeling of isolation, but also bringing people together who would benefit from a good old Christmas get together!

On December 5, a special festive lunch will be held at the New Continental Hotel for…

We are thrilled to be part of this amazing Christmas lunch for 150 people and carers. We want to help make sure that older people in our community have a place to go, to celebrate the festive season this year.

Loneliness is a huge issue that affects people all year round. However we know that the festive season can be a particularly difficult time.  We are thrilled to be working with Plymouth Live, Age UK Plymouth and the many sponsors. Together we are offering a traditional Christmas to those who may not have had one otherwise. Complete of course with Christmas Crackers, Mince Pies, carols and fine company.

What A Week In Plymouth…

Ready To Explore..?

This week in Plymouth shows just how our city is evolving at a staggering pace; with the list of utterly brilliant things to see, be part of and do here growing so long, that it may be hard to tick them all off! What a conundrum to have!

From dynamic and eclectic shows at the Theatre Royal Plymouth to the Illuminate Festival, events and activities big and small fill the cities calendar and give YOU plenty to see and do!

There’s a cheeky, independent streak running through this city too. They say Plymouth has everything – and this week is proof we do! But with so many excellent restaurants, events, activities and shows, how do we choose what to do?

To help; here are our top picks of all things Plymouth over the next week:

Theatre Royal Plymouth 

There really is something for everyone scheduled this coming week at the Theatre Royal Plymouth.
 27-30 November
First up we have a fictional story co-produced by Theatre Royal Plymouth and Told By An Idiot. You can be certain that this hour and 35 minute performance will not only be sensational, but  hilarious, heart warming, gripping and inventive.
27-30 November
It will start to feel like Christmas as soon as you take your seat! Feel-good, funny and full of joy, this cracker of a musical was adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved films. Age guidance is 5+ and really will be a treat for all.
29-30 November

100 years after she took her seat as the first female Member of Parliament, Theatre Royal Plymouth presents a playful new 30 minute drama by South West writer Shiona Morton uncovering the controversial and contradictory story of Our Nancy.

Catch one of four free flash performances of this sharp and witty insight into Plymouth’s trailblazing political history in the foyer at Theatre Royal Plymouth, steeped in shadow and undeniable truth.

 

Polar Bear Explorer 

We are very excited about this, not only because its great for ALL the family, but because we have our very own Polar Bear coming to the hotel to live with us until March!

George, the Polar Bear cub wants you to follow the Polar Bear Explorer trail this winter. Follow the trail for the chance to win some great prizes. Along the way, you’ll learn about how climate change is affecting his environment – and what you can do to help!

Head over to the Polar Bear Explorer micro-site for more information!

Illuminate Festival 2019

We re proud to be Illuminate Festival 2019 Plymouth’s Accommodation Sponsors.

Following on from last year’s fantastic success, Illuminate returns to Plymouth from Thursday 28th November to Sunday 1st December 2019 from 5.30pm – 10.00pm.

From 5:30pm each night, llluminate welcomes you to immerse yourself in stunning projection mapping, interactive pieces and playful light art installations at the historic Royal William Yard. New for 2019 audiences are also invited to discover additional installations at the Barbican and Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. Created by artists, tech designers, performers and children, the festival promises to deliver an inspiring immersive experience which will delight visitors of all ages.

Free event. 17:30 – 22:00
Festival centre – Royal William Yard
Additional installations – The Barbican and Mount Edgcumbe
www.illuminate-festival.co.uk

 

Lady Nancy Astor 

28th November

Visit the Timeline for the amazing celebration activities on Thursday 28th November. The unveiling of Lady Nancy Astor’s Statue on Plymouth Hoe.

The former Prime Minister will honour the first woman MP to take her seat in Parliament

Theresa May will unveil the bronze statue of Nancy Astor, the first woman MP to take her seat in Parliament, on Plymouth Hoe on Thursday.

It is fitting that the only living female former Prime Minister will have the honour of performing the unveiling, which will mark 100 years of women in Parliament.

There is so much more…

With late night shopping, the Christmas light switch on on the Barbican and amazing food offers throughout the city AND so much more. You can be sure of an amazing time in Plymouth.

Corporate Events; Looking Ahead…

2020; Our vision for the year ahead…

Every year, events shift and adapt depending on social, technological and economic trends. In the way they engage their audiences, and the lens through which they present and share their material.

As Plymouth’s largest independent hotel, our events team are passionate about having the right products to offer our corporate partners. They look closely at predicted trends; and use their vast knowledge and experience to decipher those they believe will take root.

Looking at trends and analysing data means that we are not only able to offer the right products, but the best service too. Our analysis doesn’t only benefit future bookings; it also allows us to optimise success rates for the here and now.

Many corporate events aim to sell, educate or inspire. Organisers require a venue that works with them to optimise results, producing the very best ROI’s.

Being generous with findings and moving with the times is essential; this article shares three trends that we envisage taking ‘root’ in 2020…

Staying Sustainable…

Next year’s Sustainability Summit 2020 will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and researchers from around the world to highlight the actions necessary to meet internationally agreed sustainability goals.

As yet delegates are not refusing to attend if there are paper handouts or literature on seats, but sustainability is a topic of debate and it’s getting louder.  Our hotel has a sustainability policy that empowers and enables our guests’ and our business partners to play an integral role in being greener, whilst not impacting on anyone’s experiences.

Going Digital…

In an age of connectivity, almost everyone on the planet is just one tap away from anything!

Like many cities, Plymouth’s digital scene is really gathering pace; more and more businesses are investing in innovative technology, transforming the way people interact. We see ‘Tech Experiences’ dominating the event landscape in 2020 more and more connectivity; global ‘live’ speakers and social media along with other digital platforms will continue to enhance and promote events.

Being Social…

Corporate events have always had a social aspect. Connecting and engaging with others offers real and purposeful outcomes; building partnerships not transactions.

We have seen a drive towards cross sector and community collaboration at events. We predict that this will increase and that there will be more social engagement and consultation style events in 2020, with drop-in style sessions, an increase in free inaugural advice workshops and open product and service Q&A’s.

New Continental Hotel; We Have It Covered…

Sustainability: Our sustainability policy is on our website. It not only tells you what we offer but has some great tips that we invite you to adopt in any venue you choose.

Digital: Offering Enterprise grade Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, access to some of the best tech and pro-active and engaged audiences on both social media and via our website, we can help you get better connected.

Social: Our five unique function rooms and break out spaces offer the perfect springboard to connect with the local community. With our city centre location, free parking and amazing coffee – we are the perfect choice for any event in Plymouth!

For more information: E:  events@newcontinental.co.uk T: 01752 276783 W: www.newcontinental.co.uk

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree…

How lovely are thy branches…

No matter how hard you try and slam on the Christmas breaks, time is whizzing by. Christmas will soon be upon us!

For those that love this time of year; Christmas is full of magic, jingle bells music, gorgeous sparkling glamour, tantalising rich tastes, well controlled tinsel, sensational smells, amazing colours, fabulous fun, lots of love, laughter and plenty of mistletoe!

These are the days when a lot of people live their very best lives!  Great food in the fridge and treats under the tree. The heating on full and brand new linen on the beds. But the one thing that is truly characterised by the word Christmas is …

Decorations…

Christmas decorations capture the feeling of wonder and excitement. They make Christmas feel magical, real and just around the corner (whether we like it or not!).

Hotels for many are the real stars of the season. They host people’s holiday trips and Christmas parties. Traditionally, the hotels’ Christmas decoration were a source of inspiration and a HUGE topic of discussion.

Many Hotels and celebrities assign the task of their festive decorations to specialised teams. Teams who plan for months in advance to create a truly magical setting. Once seen you can’t forget the iconic images shared by the super-talented Jeff Leatham. Including those amazing images of the Four Seasons Hotel’s and of course his top celebrity fan, Oprah.

Here at the New Continental Hotel we also have a specialist Christmas Team of our very own Festive Elves…

Christmas decorations are the ultimate implementation of luxury and glamour, and staff here at the New Continental Hotel this year are super excited! We are all working together, each department tasked with dressing our beautiful hotel and trees ready for Christmas.

Everyone Benefits…

The dark nights are definitely here! So, brightening things up with fairy lights, star-topped trees, decorated garlands and supersize baubles is just the ticket to loosen those winter time blues!

Christmas time glitter and sparkle is the perfect festive tonic to help put a smile on everyone’s faces. Staff this year aren’t only excited to be part of the Hotel Christmas, to see guests enjoy the decorations and loose themselves in Christmas. It’s also a time where by working together on the decorations, means that every department will be bonding whilst decorating!  And maybe indulging in a mince pie or two!

What’s more…

With our amazing Christmas offers you can come and see our masterpieces yourself! From a wonderful Winter Break, to some sensational Shopping or even an excellent Early Bird offer to see in the New Year. We have free nights and money off at just the click of a button! Join us, come and see our decorations and join in with our festivities.

If you are social, make sure you like our social media! We will be sharing our sparkly lights and silver reindeer VERY soon! Then you can let us know your verdict on our festive delights!

Instagram

Facebook Linkedin

Twitter

 

IMD! There’s Only A Week To Go…

International Men’s Day Conference Plymouth 2019… 

A week today, Plymouth will be hosting their very own International Men’s Day Conference here at the New Continental Hotel.

The International Men’s Day (IMD) Conference is a platform to encourage, enable and empower men to teach boys values and responsibilities. Furthermore, the hope is that it will create a springboard that connects everyone to a better understanding of issues such as men’s health.

IMD is a grassroots movement which is totally inclusive. It’s an event that invites everyone to celebrate every single man and every boy.  It doesn’t matter their ability, social background, ethnicity, sexuality, gender identity, religious belief or relationship status; it’s simply about them being seen, heard and celebrated.

Tuesday 19th November, from 1pm…

This event, which is being held at the New Continental Hotel  and it really does seem like everyone in Plymouth is supporting it. Probably in part because this event has organically grown into a very purposeful solution to some very real challenges. Challenges that we all face on a daily basis.

The afternoon will include informative talks from some key advocates, including: Ann James, chief executive of Plymouth NHS Hospitals Trust; Toby Gorniak director of the local hip hop dance company, Street Factory; Andy Shaw, head of community nursing at St Luke’s Hospice; Dr Jasmine Kelland, programme lead on the human resources post graduate programme at Plymouth University; Dr Sophie Mayhew, consultant clinical psychologist; Sven Lauch, Eyes Up Training; Dave Cartwright, army medic; John Hamblin chief executive of Shekinah, and Alan Butler of Pride Plymouth.

A Day To Celebrate…

The speakers feature influential and inspirational people, speaking about their experiences across a range of different industries, areas and diverse topics.

The Plymouth conference aims to celebrate positive male role models, provide a forum for open discussion and will most certainly offer access to health care support. There will be ample opportunity for delegates to mingle, meet and learn from each other and from the various organisations and exhibitors supporting the conference.

The event is totally FREE to attend so reserve your place here! 

New Continental Hotel on November 19th from 1pm, with speakers from 2pm.

See you then! 

Seasons Eatings | Looking Back At Christmas 1962 …

All We Want For Christmas…

From the turkey to the Christmas pudding and everything in-between; Christmas food and drink is the icing on any festive cake!

At the New Continental Hotel, we know that food should take centre stage at Christmas. That’s why our sensational chefs are busy planning and prepping the Christmas treats that await our guests this year.

The hotel is celebrating our 35th Christmas at the New Continental Hotel. We wanted to take this moment to look back at some Christmas’ past. Looking at the big shifts in trends and some of the marvellous menus that have donned our festive tables over the years!

Just as importantly though; we wanted to take this time to celebrate and acknowledge the prodigious talent of all of the chefs; those both past and present. Chefs who, over the decades, have all played an intrinsic part in the hotels history. But also who have played an important role in helping people make fond Christmas memories at the hotel too.

Looking back in the archives has been an honour. Seeing the past menus, orders scribbled on notes with splashes of food sprawled across the pages and pencilled shifts, all scratched in old diaries with arrows and lines to mark changes. It’s clear to see that our hotel has had the ultimate collection of Christmas Menus but also, mind-blowing, passionate and committed talent in the kitchens too.

Swiss Evening October 1962…

We believe that Christmas 1962 came off the back of a successful Swiss Evening in the October before.  This was an evening that had taken twelve months of planning and a continuous 24 hours for the brigade to prepare! No small feat!  The hard work certainly seemed to have paid off! The event took place in the Ballroom and by all accounts “…it was plush and impressive in both appearance and style”.

It was an event for members from the Plymouth Branch of the Wine & Food Society. They sat down that evening to enjoy an exclusively designed menu. With much of the ingredients  hand picked and collected by the chefs themselves. Nothing was too much trouble and nothing too lavish!  There were Alpine cured meats, soups laced with egg yolk, trout cooked in butter and almonds and fillets of veal.

The Ballroom was dressed facing the stage. The tables set out in the form of a Swiss cross. There were huge flower arrangements and the entire room and serving staff were dressed in the national colours of red and white. Every detail was given immense care and attention, as it is now for every event.

We believe it was this event that then left echoes on the design of a rather lavish Christmas in December 1962, 57 years ago!

Christmas Treats In 1962…

In December 1962 the Continental Hotel was dishing up a very unique menu!

In the year that cheese and onion crisps were introduced by Golden Wonder, the Continental Hotel introduced a new way of serving Christmas. It was to become all about the show as much as the taste. With service boards in the centre of the room, Chefs in full sight and the poshest of buffets!

The 1960s saw a boom in the British economy and so there was a dramatic rise in the standard of living, and peoples expectations. Rationing was now a thing of the past; and the 60’s  saw a spike in the European holidaymakers visiting Plymouth. The food was therefore influenced by all of these factors and there was a big movement occurring in kitchens across the UK. Chefs were now experimenting and introducing the British palate to some tasty new foods and ingredients.

Cheers…

Wine was also on the rise! Before the 1960s wine was really only ordered at the hotel for extra special occasions, the majority of people drank beer, stout, pale ale and port and lemon. In the 60’s the hotel saw an increase in wine orders and introduced bottles such as Chianti and Mateus Rose.

The hedgehog was also on the pre-dinner drinks list! These accompanied the drinks; cubes of tinned pineapple and cheddar cheese on sticks, stuck into a melon or grapefruit to look like a hedgehog – the height of 60s sophistication!

There were five Christmas Menus in 1962. All different and all definitely unique! There was some of the usual dishes you would expect to see; Shrimp cocktail and melon balls, but with the addition of a Clear Turtle Soup with Sherry! What’s amazing to see is even back in 1962 ‘local’ played a huge part in the design and delivery of the hotel menus. Chefs had amazing relationships with the farmers locally, not naming the farm but the farmer himself in their notes.

Just as in 1962, the ingredients matter to our chefs. Although there is no Turtle Soup this Christmas (we can all breath a sigh of relief that this trend has passed!) there is the same love and attention given to every dish by every chef.

No matter what the year; Christmas at the New Continental Hotel is full of fun, fabulous food and a history rich in hospitality. 2019 is no different to 1962, our talented chefs are busy ensuring all guests this Christmas have the best experiences and make magical memories that last another 57 years!

2020 Holiday Planning | Plymouth …

Dates For Your 2020 Diary…

Money saving tips are everywhere this time of year. From utility switch overs to promotional offers for money off brands. The consistent message for all savings though is to plan, plan, plan!

2020 Break Away…

2020 is a big year for Plymouth. It marks the celebration of one ship that links four nations, spans 400 years of history and connects millions and millions of people.

From November 2019, an ambitious year-long commemoration will mark the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s pioneering voyage. It will include a creative, inspiring and unforgettable series of events – from breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime festivals to grand, thought-provoking artistic installations and a vast network of community events too. Over the year-long celebrations there will be something for everyone.

Plymouth really will be the place to be; but that does mean you have to get planning to get in!

It’s All In The Planning…

Planning your 2020 breaks away over the next few months is the best way of getting the best price, but also booking the best time off work!

There’s nothing quite like a long weekend – or the shorter working week to give us a new lease of life and something to really look forward to.

So why not crack out your calendar and get planning how you’re going to use all your days off in 2020? After all, it’s never too soon and Plymouth is waiting for you with some AMAZING events and activities to entertain EVERYONE!

2020 UK Bank and Public Holidays:

  • New Year’s Day:Wednesday 1 January
  • Good Friday:Friday 10 April
  • Easter Monday:Monday 13 April (England, Wales and Northern Ireland only)
  • Early May bank holiday:Friday 8 May
  • Spring bank holiday:Monday 25 May
  • Summer bank holiday:Monday 31 August (England, Wales and Northern Ireland only)
  • Christmas Day:Friday 25 December
  • Boxing Day: Monday 28 December

We know it seems like a long way off (we haven’t even got this Christmas out of the way yet) but if you’re a planner like us then you need to get ahead to maximise your time off and save pounds!  We have some amazing offers for 2020, and more being added. So, check availability and join us here in Plymouth for 2020 and a fabulous year of celebrations.

 

Need A Job Over Christmas..?

A Job That Keeps On Giving…

This time of year is particularly busy in the world of hospitality. There are Christmas Party Nights galore and lots of families visiting Plymouth for some Festive Fun!

If you are looking for a temporary job, the festive season is the perfect time to broaden your experience and perhaps take a peep at what Hotel life might look like for you.

A job in hospitality is hard work; but it’s also so rewarding. It’s a job that keeps giving long after your shift is over. Be it that you know you have made a massive difference in someones experience. You are part of a memory that will last them forever. Or you have learnt a new skill that is transferable and helps connect you to your next step. You have met someone that inspires you and creates a form of mindfulness that you had never thought of before. It’s a hard job – but a rewarding one!

Want to join us? It’s not just about tidying up your CV …

A CV is important, but so too is passion and enthusiasm says Simon Hawke, Operations Manager at the New Continental Hotel:

“Staff are so important to us here at the hotel. They are the reason customers have great experiences and keep coming back. Our staff need to provide exceptional service, guiding the guest around our business, and helping them explore and understand our menus. Although a CV is important, to be part of our amazing waiting teams you must have more! A friendly face, a lovely manner and a passionate nature is essential. “

A legion of hotels and restaurants are currently recruiting people to join them during one of their busiest period…

Some require prior experience, while other vacancies are looking for workers with a cheerful personality and a can-do approach to the role. Essentially those looking for flexible work.

Simon continues: “There are some amazing benefits to working casually in hospitality over Christmas. Many of our Managers started on a casual contract and have worked their way up; be that in Finance, HR, Marketing or the Kitchen. No experience is necessary, full hospitality training is provided, we hire the attitude and train the skills!”

Here at the New Continental Hotel, we are looking for a team who are passionate about hospitality and take pride in their customer service skills. If that’s you, then let us know you’re looking. Send your CV and a short covering note to Simon, telling him why you would like to join his happy, friendly team of Elves this Christmas!

EMAIL: simonh@newcontinental.co.uk today!

We have opportunities perfect for those looking for casual part-time work to slot around existing commitments or those looking for more hours. You need to have the ability to work flexible hours over evenings and weekends.

Festive Family Fun…

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas…In Plymouth!

With just EIGHT Friday’s left before Christmas, we are all getting excited, especially the little ones! To make things even MORE exciting, this Festive season is full of family fun in Plymouth’s city centre.

Here at the New Continental Hotel we have some GREAT Winter Break OFFERS too; free stays; great discounts and some very special promotions.

So, why not stay in Plymouth this Christmas 2019 and see the return of three sensational family-friendly events from Plymouth City Centre Company…

Christmas Lights Switch-on, Thursday 14 November

The Christmas Lights Switch-on marks the start of the festive season. This year, the evening will be hosted by Radio Plymouth. There will be performers and groups, including local schools, choirs and Plymouth Party Princesses. The stage on the Piazza will be full of Christmas cheer!

The lights will be switched on at 6.30pm by Santa himself! The Mayflower 400 Town Crier will also be there to assist!  Once the city centre is illuminated, there will be a local four-piece indie, rock and pop band, The Sound.  They will be performing popular tracks from bands such as The Killers, Kings of Leon and Oasis!

Thursday 14 November also marks the start of late-night shopping in the city centre. Many of the shops open later on Thursday evenings in the run-up to Christmas.

Plymouth Christmas Market, Thursday 28 November to Thursday 19 December

From Thursday 28 November, Plymouth Christmas Market will return to the city centre for three weeks (until Thursday 19 December). More than 50 traditional wooden cabins will fill the Piazza, with stallholders from across the South West. Here you can find a great range of products from handmade jewellery and homewares to artwork and clothing.

Some of the region’s favourite food and drink producers will also be in attendance too. Including the English Spirit Distillery, South Devon Chilli Farm, Roly’s Fudge Pantry, Retro Shotz, Ventons Devon Cyder and Loco About Cocoa.

What’s more the Bavarian Bar will return! There will also be a number of street food stands offering delicious treats such as traditional hotdogs and melting cheese raclette. The giant illuminated bauble will also be located at the entrance to the market, acting as the perfect background prop for festive photos.

Every Thursday to Sunday, there will be entertainment to enjoy in the heart of the market too, including local choirs and bands.

Penguins: A LEGO® brick trail, Saturday 30 November to Sunday 5 January

Back by popular demand, Penguins: A LEGO brick trail is  returning to the city centre this Christmas. The trail will run from 30 November to 5 January, with 19 Rockhopper penguins and one Emperor penguin! They are all life size and made out of LEGO bricks!!  The penguins will be hiding all over the city, and if you find all the penguins you can be in with the chance to win incredible prizes! These prizes include a weekend family trip to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort courtesy of Plymouth Citycoach, or a penguin feeding experience at Living Coasts in Torquay for four people.

Steve Hughes, Chief Executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, said:

“There is so much for everyone to enjoy in the city centre this festive season. Not only is there brilliant shopping, with everything from big brand names to unique independents in the West End and Plymouth Market, but there’s so much to keep the entire family entertained.

“Enjoy one of our brilliant festive events, hunt for LEGO brick penguins, take in a show at the Theatre Royal Plymouth or head to Drake Circus The Barcode to enjoy the new restaurants, adventure golf and cinema.”

Plymouth city centre is easy to get to with plenty of buses and parking. In the West End, Western Approach car park offers inexpensive parking for just £1 an hour, or £5 for the whole day, and Drake Circus The Barcode has created another 420 parking spaces in the north of the city centre.

For more information about Christmas in Plymouth, including full event details and travel information, keep an eye on our blog page or head to Visit Plymouth for more information!

 

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