England · City Guide
Plymouth
Plymouth is a proud naval city on the south Devon coast, combining a rich maritime heritage as the departure point of the Mayflower, a dramatic seafront Hoe with views across Plymouth Sound, outstanding restaurants serving superb local seafood and easy access to Dartmoor National Park and the beautiful South Devon coastline. From the Barbican historic quarter and the National Marine Aquarium to the Mayflower Steps, Plymouth rewards visitors with an authentic and underrated English coastal experience.
Elect's take
"Plymouth has a directness and a maritime pride that I find very appealing. The combination of Dartmoor on one side and the sea on the other, combined with genuinely outstanding seafood and a fascinating history, creates a destination that is consistently underrated."
The Plymouth Hoe provides one of England's most dramatic seafront settings, with views across Plymouth Sound to the breakwater and beyond. The Barbican is Plymouth's historic quarter, a network of cobbled streets and quays surrounding the Mayflower Steps from which the Pilgrim Fathers departed in 1620. The National Marine Aquarium is one of England's finest. Royal William Yard is a beautifully restored naval victualling yard now converted into an excellent collection of restaurants, galleries and apartments. Dartmoor National Park is 20 minutes away.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Mayflower Steps
The historic departure point of the Pilgrim Fathers in 1620.
Plymouth Hoe
A dramatic seafront with outstanding views across Plymouth Sound.
Plymouth Seafood
Outstanding fresh seafood from one of England's most significant fishing ports.
The Barbican
Plymouth's historic quarter of cobbled quays, galleries and independent restaurants.
Dartmoor Access
England's most dramatic moorland national park just 20 minutes from the city.
National Marine Aquarium
One of England's finest marine aquariums exploring the oceans from Plymouth's shores.
