Plymouth Landmarks and Monuments

(Plymouth, Devon, England, UK)

A number of grand mansions, manor houses and period properties are amongst the main landmarks in the Plymouth area, with the National Trust's Buckland Abbey and Saltram House being amongst the most popular. Also particularly prominent and dominating the Plymouth Hoe, Smeaton's Tower is a historic lighthouse with an observation area and an especially interesting past.

Many people staying in the city of Plymouth also visit the Royal Citadel along Hope Road, which is known for its waterfront location and views.

Smeaton's Tower

Address: The Hoe, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 2PA, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1752 60 0608
Rated as one of the top attractions in the whole of Devon, a visit to Smeaton's Tower is not to be missed. This eye-catching red and white lighthouse is easy to spot and is located in the Plymouth Hoe area. Dating back to the 18th century, Smeaton's Tower was actually originally located some 14 miles / 23 km away, in nearby Eddystone Rocks and was painstakingly moved piece by piece to its current location in 1882. It is possible to climb the steep stone stairs to the very top and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views on offer.
Open hours: April to October - daily, 10:00 to 16:00; November to March - Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 15:00
Admission: charge

Hemerdon House

Address: Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 5BZ, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)7704 708 416
Containing a number of colourful paintings and portraits, period furniture and antiques, Hemerdon House can be found on the outskirts of the city, in the Sparkwell area. Hemerdon House is steeped in local history and is open for guided tours on certain days of the year only.
Open hours: charge, children under 12 years old and members of the Historic Houses Association (HHA) are free
Admission: May to September, selected days only - 14:15 to 17:30, tours start at starting at 14.30 and 16:00

Royal Citadel

Address: Hope Road, The Hoe, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 2PA, England, UK
The Royal Citadel is a historic limestone fortress and overlooks both the Cattewater and the Plymouth Sound. With its main entrance along the Hoe Road, the Royal Citadel dates back to the late 17th century and is known for its baroque-style architecture and Tudor features. Also of interest are a number of stone carvings, landscaped gardens and a collection of guns.
Open hours: May to September, daily guided tours at 14:30
Admission: charge, discounts for children and seniors

Buckland Abbey (National Trust)

Address: Yelverton, Plymouth, Devon, PL20 6EY, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1822 85 3607
Located in the Yelverton area and just a short drive from Plymouth city centre, Buckland Abbey is famous for once being the home of Sir Francis Drake and originated as a monastery in the 1200s. With grand themed gardens, including both an ornate herb garden and authentically planted Elizabethan garden, the grounds of Buckland Abbey are especially impressive.
Open hours: charge, discounts for children and families
Admission: charge, discounts for children and families

Saltram House and Gardens (National Trust)

Address: Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 1UH, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1752 33 3500
The Saltram House and Gardens are owned and managed by the National Trust and can be found in the Plympton area, on the eastern side of Plymouth. Featuring a magnificent George II mansion boasting views of the Plym estuary, other highlights include period rooms complete with antique furnishings, beautifully landscaped gardens and a number of important art works. Many seasonal events take place in the gardens every year, during the summer months.
Open hours: April to October - Sunday to Thursday, 12:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children