Plymouth for the day

Plymouth

 

Plymouth - Britain’s Ocean City is the perfect base to explore the breath-taking beauty of the south west. Whether it’s eating freshly caught seafood in one of the waterfront restaurants on the Barbican, enjoying the sunshine on the Hoe or taking a behind the scenes tour of Devonport Dockyard, each area of Plymouth has something special and unique to offer visitors. Don't miss a trip to The Box while you're here. It's the city's newest museum and art gallery and has lots for the whole family to enjoy, including a full-size woolly mammoth replica! 

 

To see why Plymouth is so proud of its waterfront and discover Plymouth’s marine heritage, take a trip to Sutton Harbour and the Barbican, or Royal William Yard – all of which can be reached by ferries and water taxis as well as by bus and on foot.

 

Plymouth City Centre

Is the heart of the city’s shopping and the place to go if you’re looking for retail therapy. Browse big name brands in Drake Circus and on either side of Drake Circus, you’ll find the pedestrianised city centre with high street stores alongside hundreds of great independents. Stroll down to Plymouth Market to find some amazing unique stalls and incredible artisan food and drink.

 

Just outside of the city centre, Ebrington Street offers a quirky street of independent stores, with a social enterprise pub, the Bread and Roses and some great coffee shops.

The city’s wide tree-lined pedestrianised boulevards are a product of proud post-war redevelopment. Be sure to look up above the shop fronts and facades to see the designs in Portland stone that inspired TV’s Kevin McCloud to declare Plymouth’s post war architecture ‘beautiful and heroic.’

 

Charles Cross roundabout is home to the city’s living reminder of the Blitz that reshaped the city, with the bombed out Charles Church sitting at its centre. The Minster Church of St Andrew, which has been the site of a church since the 15th century stands proudly in the city centre. Having been gutted by fire during World War II and refurbished in 1957 the fabric of the building still retains some of its original features along with modern stained glass windows and bells that were cast in the 16th century to celebrate Sir Francis Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe.

 

The Hoe

A breath-taking panorama, no trip to Plymouth is complete without a visit to Plymouth Hoe. With unbeatable views across Plymouth Sound, it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny day, enjoying a picnic on the grass. Standing tall on the luscious green-lawned expanse of the Hoe is the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse. Gaze down at the shoreline and you’ll see the glorious Tinside Lido, open to the public for bathing during the summer months.

 

It is here where Sir Francis Drake, intrepid explorer and local hero, is immortalised in a statue, situated just a few metres from the green where he finished his game of bowls before heading out to defeat the Spanish Armada in 1588. At the eastern end of the Hoe you’ll find The Royal Citadel, the most impressive 17th century fortress in Britain and for many years England’s most important defence against attack from the sea. The Citadel has been in constant military occupation since it was built and today it is home to some of Plymouth’s modern heroes – the troops of 29 Commando Royal Artillery.

Is a vibrant waterfront city packed full of attractions. Come rain or shine you’ll find something for everyone among the city streets, surrounding countryside and marine environment beyond.

 

There are well-known landmarks, historical sites and natural assets to explore across Plymouth’s many unique areas and districts. A historic city of international proportions, Plymouth has been at the forefront of world maritime exploration for many hundreds of years. Overlooking one of the world's great natural harbours Plymouth now welcomes visitors from around the globe.

 

This vibrant waterfront city where a spirited maritime heritage meets a lively cultural scene which can be enjoyed by people of all ages throughout the year. Wander the Barbican’s quaint cobbled quayside following in the Pilgrim Father’s footsteps or visit the imposing National Marine Aquarium with its deepwater fish tanks on the waterfront of Sutton Harbour. Just one of the many attractions of Plymouth for the visitor.

 

Or sample Plymouth’s finest export at the Blackfriars Gin Distillery or take a boat trip around the Sound from Mayflower Steps.

 

Depart Approx 17.30