Lovers of the sea and maritime history will feel right at home in Plymouth, located in county Devon on the south coast of England, as will anyone looking for a vibrant seaside destination with access to fine scenery and a developed tourist infrastructure. The name Plymouth evokes images of characters such as Sir Francis Drake, Charles Darwin, Captain James Cook and the Pilgrim Fathers; the city indeed embodies the spirit of all these characters and others too.
On a historic trip, head for Plymouth Hoe at the waterfront, the location at which the legendary games of bowls was played by Sir Francis Drake ahead of his Spanish Armada confrontation. Nearby, maritime fans can indulge their interests with a series of British Navy ships which are open for public viewing, while museums in the same area present a variety of sea-related artifacts.
In the city center, before you tackle the abundant shopping opportunities, consider checking out the Barbican Glass Works, famous as being the only building to have survived enemy air raids during WWII. Additionally, a trip to Buckland Abbey, where Sir Francis Drake once resided, is also worthwhile. On a fine day the green open spaces provided by Devonport Park, Victoria Park and Beaumont Park offer opportunities for relaxation or outdoor activity.
Plymouth attractions
Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery: visitors are treated to a fascinating journey through the social history of the city with a focus on the everyday lives of its residents.
The Elizabethan House and Merchants House: both structures in fact hail from the Elizabethan period and are well preserved, giving visitors an accurate idea of the conditions in which people lived at the time.
Plymouth Museum: this fine Tudor home dates back to the early 16th century and has an interior that has been reconstructed to resemble a genuine residence of the period.
The Plymouth Dome: visitors are offered an in depth look at the city’s history from its beginnings through its medieval period, to 19th and 20th century events that have helped shaped it into the city that it is today.
Buckland Abbey: the former home of Sir Francis Drake features original furnishings and artifacts from the 16th century.