The sprawling waterfront city of Plymouth encompasses the historic Barbican, Victorian gardens on the Hoe and a modern city centre which was hastily rebuilt after World War II. The dockyard has a constant turnover of Royal Naval vessels, best seen from a narrated cruise which includes the Barbican and Hoe, Drake's Island, the breakwater, Devonport Dockyard and Brunel's Royal Albert Bridge across the River Tamar.
Standing on Plymouth Hoe beside the red and white striped Smeaton's Tower, you can just imagine the approach of the Spanish Armada. More Plymouth history can be found inside the Plymouth Dome which has reconstructed Plymouth streets and great views across Plymouth Sound. Cruise ships, ferries, fishing boats, luxury yachts and naval warships all share these famous waters.
The Royal Citadel, built as a military base by Charles II, overlooks the antique shops and waterfront of the historic Barbican. History oozes from the Mayflower Steps, Elizabethan House and the Jacobean Merchant's House. The Black Friar's Distillery continues to provide the navy with Plymouth Gin and offers fascinating guided tours and tastings. Across the water is the stunning National Maritime Museum.
This university city has an excellent shopping centre, theatres, cinemas, restaurants and plenty of nightlife. The concert venue at the Plymouth Pavilions and the Theatre Royal provide an ongoing program of culture. Plymouth holiday rentals make a great base for exploring this historic city, visiting the many sandy beaches in the area, hiking on Dartmoor or visiting Drake's home at Buckland Abbey.
Here is our selection of the very best holiday homes in and around Plymouth...