Inside Plymouth’s “Bottling Plant” Where the Past Might Not Be Past
Right opposite the Plymouth Gin Distillery on the Barbican sits a building that’s lived more than one life. Today, it’s The Bottling Plant, an award winning restaurant, cocktail lounge, and boutique stay, run by a local family. But according to the owner, something strange may still be happening inside.
The building is believed to have once played a role in Plymouth’s historic gin trade, forming part of the wider process that helped send the city’s famous spirit across the world. It was busy, industrial, and a working piece of Plymouth’s identity at the time, until its next chapter began.
In the 20th century, it became home to Robert Lenkiewicz. He lived and worked in the building, turning it into both a home and creative space. The upstairs rooms weren’t just rooms, they were part of his life, while downstairs became a place of artistic output that helped make him one of Plymouth’s most talked-about figures.
Today, owner Andrew Cotterell and his family have transformed the building, with his son now leading in the kitchen, making it a true family-run business. But one decision stands out, a four-poster bed has been placed in the exact same spot where Lenkiewicz’s bed once stood. Not nearby. Not inspired by. Exactly the same place.
Since reopening, Andrew says the building hasn’t been quiet. He describes hearing footsteps when no one else is inside “proper footsteps, walking around.” He also claims objects have moved, including glasses coming off shelves, which he says has been captured on camera with no one nearby. When asked what he believes is behind it, he is clear in his view: he believes Robert Lenkiewicz is still there, and that his presence remains within the building.
Today, visitors come for the food, the atmosphere, and the chance to stay somewhere completely unique. But it’s the story behind the walls and the experiences being shared, that are getting people talking. Because this isn’t just a restoration. It’s a building with a past that may still be present.
Photographs and Video © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post