Plymouth Tourist Information and Tourism

(Plymouth, Devon, England, UK)



Picture of the National Marine AquariumWith a rich maritime history and many famous locals over the years, including Sir Francis Drake and his bowls, Plymouth is the biggest city in the whole of Devon and enjoys an impressive coastal location in south-west England. Plymouth features a number of prominent modern suburbs and a large city centre, which has been revamped, paved and fully pedestrianised, brimming with shops, restaurants and many large trees.

Plymouth is comprised of three main regions, each of which has something individual and unique to offer the visitor. The very heart of the city lies on the southern side of the train station and contains the bus station, which is located along Armada Way. Further south you will discover the Plymouth Hoe, where many popular guest houses can be found, together with an appealing promenade offering spectacular views across the Plymouth Sound. On the eastern side of the Hoe, the vibrant and enticing Barbican area is located alongside Sutton Harbour and is amongst the city's most historic spots.





Photo of sailing boats passing the Hoe

Plymouth Tourist Information and Tourism: Top Sights

Tourism is a big part of life in Plymouth and the city contains two main tourist information centres, although a variety of the main leaflets are also available at the library, hotels and some shops. With a good selection of information and advice for visitors, Plymouth's tourist information outlets can be found in the Barbican and also at the Civic Centre. Currently ranking as the 14th-biggest city in the United Kingdom, Plymouth is large enough to offer something for everyone. Those looking for Plymouth holiday accommodation should consider staying on the north-western side of the Hoe, where a good choice of hotels and guest houses await, being clustered around Citadel Road in particular. Close by, the Riverside Caravan Park may appeal to families, while for a spot of luxury, the Grand Hotel offers elegant Victorian seaside lodging at its best. More information about Plymouth Hotels and Accommodation.

Plymouth's best tourist attractions include the spectacular National Marine Aquarium - the city's premier tourist attraction, with fish tanks of gigantic proportions, underwater tunnels and plenty of large sharks; Plymouth Gin - an famous distillery which originated more than 400 years ago and is still producing this tasty tipple; Dartmoor Wildlife Park - to the north-east of Plymouth and a particularly popular attraction for visiting tourists and families; and Central Park - an major green space in the very heart of Plymouth, featuring a host of sports facilities, including a large leisure complex.

Picture of al fresco dining in the Barbican areaTop Plymouth landmarks include the ancient Buckland Abbey - an impressive building sited in the Yelverton area and featuring mature landscaped gardens; Hemerdon House - with period furnishings and information about the city's rich heritage; Royal Citadel - a fortress built from limestone and overlooking the Plymouth Sound; Saltram House and Gardens - a National Trust property on the city's outskirts, in Plympton; and Smeaton's Tower - a prominent red and white lighthouse which originated in the 18th century and offering excellent views of the Hoe and beyond. More information about Plymouth Tourist Attractions and Plymouth Landmarks.

Some of the Plymouth's most visited art galleries and museums include the City Museum and Art Gallery - brimming with information about the city, both past and present, together with large collections of art works; Armada Gallery - with many temporary exhibitions and located in the Barbican area; Plymouth Arts Centre - much more than just an art gallery, featuring both a cinema and restaurant; Elizabethan House - built in the latter part of the 16th century and full of antiques and a Tudor garden; Merchant's House - with four floors, each of which is themed and features much local information, including a replica of a Victorian schoolroom; and the Plymouth Dome - offering one of the best ways to learn about the city's history, including many in-depth exhibitions. More information about Plymouth Museums and Plymouth Galleries.

Tourist attractions located close to Plymouth include many nearby towns and villages in Cornwall, with the beaches around Looe and Newquay being especially popular, as is the Dartmoor National Park, to the north-east. Particularly notable is Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park - a grand Tudor House dating back to the 18th century, the Lost Gardens of Heligan - one of the area's true gems, with many beautifully restored gardens, including many jungle plants and huge tree ferns; and St. Austell's Eden Project - one of Cornwall's biggest draw cards and featuring the world's biggest biodome conservatory, complete with enormous tropical plants and trees. More information about Plymouth Attractions Nearby.

More Plymouth Information / Fast Facts and Orientation