Plymouth

Known as Britain's Ocean City, Plymouth is Devon’s largest city with a population of around 265,000. It's rich maritime history, fascinating attractions and stunning coastal scenery combine to create a fantastic destination in the heart of Devon.

History of Plymouth in Brief ...

Plymouth’s history has been shaped by its relationship with the sea. The port grew in importance during the medieval period before becoming a major naval base and centre for exploration. Sir Francis Drake famously set sail from Plymouth to begin his circumnavigation of the globe, while in 1620 the Mayflower departed from Plymouth carrying the Pilgrims towards America.

Plymouth suffered extensive bombing during the Second World War, with much of the historic city centre being destroyed. The city was subsequently rebuilt with the post-war architecture seen today. One of the most visible reminders of the Plymouth Blitz is Charles Church, which was burned out by incendiary bombs in 1941. The hollowed out roofless church remains still standing in the centre of the city, deliberately preserved as a memorial to the lives lost during the blitz. The historic Barbican survived the bombing and remains one of the best preserved parts of old Plymouth.

It's a Fact!

Sir Francis Drake famously played bowls on Plymouth Hoe before setting off to confront the Spanish Armada in 1588.

Drake’s Island in Plymouth Sound is built on the tip of an ancient, extinct volcano made from volcanic tuff and lava. 

The National Marine Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the UK and, also, houses the deepest aquarium tank in the UK, reaching down 10.5 meters.

Explore Plymouth in South Devon

Plymouth combines a historic waterfront with a vibrant city centre and some of the most impressive coastal scenery in the South West. The Barbican and Sutton Harbour are packed with cobbled streets, independent shops, cafes and restaurants, while the historic Mayflower Steps and National Marine Aquarium provide reminders of the city’s close relationship with the sea.  

Plymouth Hoe provides one of the city’s best-known views across Plymouth Sound, with Smeaton’s Tower, the Royal Citadel and the wide waterfront promenade. On a sunny day, visitors can even take a dip in the iconic Tinside Lido, the Art Deco saltwater swimming pool overlooking the Sound. Just along the coast, Royal William Yard has been transformed from a historical naval complex into a lively destination for food, culture and leisure, with regular ferry connections across the Sound. 

For those looking for some retail therapy, Drake Circus offers a wide choice of shops, cafes and places to eat right in the heart of the city. Plymouth also has a thriving theatre and arts scene , with Theatre Royal Plymouth hosting a varied programme of musicals, comedy and family performances. The Box, Plymouth’s award-winning museum and gallery, is also well worth a visit. 

Beyond the city, Plymouth provides an excellent base for exploring the surrounding South Devon countryside, the South West Coastal Path, Dartmoor and nearby Mount Edgcumbe. With its combination of maritime heritage, culture, shopping, food and spectacular waterfront, Plymouth offers plenty to discover throughout the year.