Plymouth is a historic maritime city on England's southwest coast, in the United Kingdom. It is a place with a strong sense of the sea, and it holds a particular place in history: the Mayflower departed from here for America in 1620, a voyage that gives the city a connection to the wider world.
The Barbican
The waterfront Barbican area is the heart of a visit for many people. Its cobbled streets run down to the harbour, and the old quarter sits comfortably alongside more modern attractions. It is an easy place to wander without a fixed plan, stopping at the water's edge to watch the boats.
Things to see and do
- National Marine Aquarium – a modern attraction on the waterfront, well suited to families and anyone interested in life under the sea.
- Royal Naval Dockyard – an impressive site that showcases Britain's naval heritage, and a natural choice for visitors drawn to ships and history.
- The waterfront itself – the harbour and its surroundings give a good sense of why the city grew around the sea.
Because the historic and the modern sit so close together, Plymouth works well for a day trip or for a longer stay. A visit can combine the old streets of the Barbican with the dockyard's naval story and the aquarium's marine displays, all within walking distance of the water.
Planning your visit
Plymouth suits visitors who enjoy coastal towns, maritime history and a mix of old and new. If you are interested in the sea in any form, from its ships to its wildlife, the city offers a focused and rewarding trip on England's southwest coast.
