Exeter Lives: James Sharp

James Sharp - General Manager of Sidholme Hotel, Sidmouth. Chairman of Exeter and Heart of Devon Hotels and Restaurants Association, President of Sidmouth & District Hospitality Association and a Director of the Heart of Devon Area Tourism Partnership - talks to The Exeter Daily about his favourite Exeter hotspots and hidden treasures.

How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
Hospitality, Food & Drink enthusiast  

How would you describe Exeter in 5 words?
Thriving city nestled in countryside

What brought you to Exeter?
Promotion within the company and what better place to come, right by the sea and close to Exeter!

Where do you live?
Sidmouth

What is your favourite place in Exeter?
River Exe including the Quayside and the Cathedral

What is your favourite Exeter event?
Exeter’s Christmas Market held on the Cathedral Green, it was instigated by our association, and also the food festival.

What was the last live performance you saw in Exeter and where did you see it?
Al Murray at the Northcott, he had a sore throat but was a brilliant night of laughs.

Favourite place to eat out in or near Exeter?
So many to choose from and depends on the mood - Jack in the Green, Abode, Bill's, Darts Farm….

Best coffee in town?
Tea on the Green

Favourite pub?
Mill on the Exe

Favourite locally produced food or drink?
Kenniford Hog Roast bap & Quickes Cheddar

Favourite shop?
Apple Store & Darts Farm

Favourite shopping area?
Princesshay & John Lewis

Exeter Chiefs or Exeter City?
Chiefs

Beach or moors?
Beach - Sidmouth

What or where is Exeter's best kept secret?
Northernhay Gardens

What one change would you like to see in Exeter?
Regular late night shopping with later park and ride times for people working in Exeter to stay out longer.

Who is your local hero or heroine?
Volunteers of Sidmouth Lifeboat and the RNLI

Do you belong to any local clubs or societies?
Help the wife with Beavers when told to… www.scouts.org.uk

What are you up to next?
Promoting the area as much as possible and getting ready to see the Tour of Britain cycling starting in Sidmouth and finishing at Haytor this September and then the Rugby World Cup 2015 at Sandy Park.

www.sidholme.co.uk
www.devonhotels.com
www.selectsidmouth.co.uk
www.heartofdevon.co.uk