Contained within Plymouth’s fortified peninsula, Admiral’s House is a safe bet for those looking for a boutique hotel in England’s southern city. Connected operationally with the nearby Bistrot Pierre restaurant, Admiral’s House is a self-service hotel with 14 individually styled rooms, each adding contemporary details to the 19th century townhouse. The historic Royal William Yard surrounds the hotel, offering a unique perspective on Englands Ocean City while lending runners and swimmers with plenty to explore.

The structure was originally built in the 1830s to the plans of Sir John Rennie, serving as accommodation for the Royal Navy’s officer classes. Bistrot Pierre’s involvements has prompted a sympathetic restoration of the Georgian building, removing 20th-century modernisation to reinstate its original features like sash windows and period charm. The design by Gillespie Yunnie Architects pairs this classic architecture with modern, luxurious interior amenities to create stylish, functional rooms.

Bedrooms are spacious with large windows providing an airy feel. Single-pane sash windows may be hopeless for sound and heat insulation – thankfully the latter is covered by upgraded HVAC. A comprehensive set of for-purchase snacks is available with a pair of warm cookies ready on arrival, a sure sign that hospitality is fully through. Liberal hanging areas encourage guests to fully unpack for their stays, while floorspace allows for further at-home morning routines.

Royal William Yard quarter also includes a gym – BLOCK Gym, Everyman and workspace-friendly cafe (also from Block). Day passes for BLOCK Gym are available – £10 per day and the gym is open 24/7 (book here). The opposing Bistrot Pierre restaurant serves meals throughout the day, with their breakfasts being the most convenient in the quarter.

If you make it to Plymouth, Crocadon is worth extending your journey for an exceptional meal with local produce mostly from the farm. Those familiar with L’Enclume and The Wilderness will be aware that the spectrum of what qualifies for Michelin is broad – Crocadon exists in the sweat spot between authenticity, price and quality. The Michelin-rated restaurant is located nine miles outside of town (bus stop at the end of their driveway, or else taxi in for £40).

For fine dining inside Plymouth, first try Barbican Kitchen.

For specialty coffee in Plymouth, try Ope first (new for 2025), then venture out to Rockets & Rascals (bike-themed) and Jacka (pastry focus).

Training Notes

Maison Pierre’s location in Royal William Yard positions guests perfectly for swims, while coastal running routes and and spacious bedrooms for bikes open up opportunities for runners and cyclists.

City runs along the coastal path are easy to navigate into town, with the Brickfield Athletics track less than one mile away. For quieter routes and trails, take the short ferry across to Cremyll and enjoy Mount Edgcumbe Park. Ferries depart hourly from a small harbour 300m from the hotel.

There is no premium road bike rental in Plymouth, which shouldn’t dishearten those looking to make the most of Dartmoor’s roadways located to the north-east. Riverford Field Kitchen (farm-to-table lunch, Google Maps) is an ambitious turnaround point to aim for.

Swimmers can enjoy temperate waters throughout the year immediately from Royal William Yard and enjoy the sauna located at the Maison Pierre’s entrance. A seawater lido is located on the other side of the fortified wall from the hotel. Indoor swimming is nearest at Plymouth Life Centre, with Tinside Lido being a spectacular frontage during the summer months.

For booking and more information, visit bistrotpierre.com. Review based on stay in room #9 in September 2025.