Plymouth
Britain’s ‘Ocean City’, Plymouth is home to breathtaking views, fresh sea air and plenty to see and do. Explore the vibrant waterfront, discover Britain’s maritime history, and experience local events and nightlife. Plymouth is the largest city in Devon, making it the perfect base to explore the beauty of the South West county.
The historic Barbican and Sutton Harbour are the heart of the city's heritage with the oldest buildings, cobbled streets, narrow lanes, more than 200 Listed Buildings, many of them Tudor and Jacobean, and the greatest number of well-documented stories of the city through the ages. You’ll also find an eclectic mix of restaurants with cuisine from the world over - being a historic port means that Plymouth is an exciting and multi-cultural city!
A stunning panorama, no trip to the city is complete without a visit to Plymouth Hoe. With unbeatable views across Plymouth Sound, it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny day, enjoy a picnic on the grass, take a dip in the art deco Tinside Lido or visit the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse.
There are plenty of Devonshire beaches just a short trip from Plymouth. The closest are Bovisands and the National Trust-managed Wembury, a great destination for walking and rock-pooling. Slightly further afield is Bigbury on Sea, where you’ll find the iconic landmark of Burgh Island. To the north of Plymouth lies the vast and imposing landscape of Dartmoor National Park. Covering 368 square miles, this moorland is home to ancient forests, rivers, rock formations, Neolithic monuments and wild ponies.
More to see
The National Marine Aquarium: The largest aquarium in the UK with over 40 sharks, lies at the entrance to Sutton Harbour.
Plymouth Gin Distillery: Home to the world-famous distillery, the building dates from the early 1400s, a former monastery inhabited by Black Friar Monks.
The Box: This brand-new museum, gallery and archive housing a collection of about 2 million eclectic items, tells the story of Plymouth and the South West.
Mayflower Steps: The site from which the Pilgrims are believed to have left England aboard the Mayflower for a new life in America in the year 1620.
Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse: Originally built in 1759, the tower has become one of the South West's most well-known landmarks.
Plymouth Boat Tours: Visitors can take a cruise around the harbour to learn more about the local marine environment - or even catch a fish and learn how best to cook it!
Mount Edgecumbe House & Country Park: Magnificent 16th-century country house and gardens, with views over the River Tamar which separates Devon and Cornwall.
