Plymouth Things To Do – Attractions & Must See

Plymouth Things to Do

Plymouth is a city in Devon, England, that sits between the River Plym to the east and River Tamar to the west. It is a quaint place to visit, and there are many attractions to see and things to do while in the region.

Maritime History

Plymouth has been the traditional home of the Royal Navy since 1194, when Richard I granted the City its first Royal Charter. Devonport at Plymouth is a primary Royal Navy refit facility. The dockyard carries out refuelling and refitting activities for the Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear submarines. Try and visit the Royal Dockyard at Devonport, founded in 1691 by William of Orange. During the summer months, tours of the Dockyard are held. Another way to view the Dockyard is by way of a river cruise. Motor cruisers depart from the Barbican and cruise up the river to Calstock, passing the Dockyard en route.

Within the city, the Sir Francis Drake Statue is mounted on top of a plinth that stands nearly five meters tall. From its perch, the statue overlooks Plymouth Sound and Drake’s Island. This statue is, in fact, a bronze replica, with the original standing at Tavistock.

The Harbor

Sutton Harbour is where Plymouth was born. From its humble beginnings as a small fishing community, Sutton Harbour has grown into one of the three largest fishing ports in England. This is the harbor that was used by the Pilgrim Fathers, Sir Francis Drake, and even Sir Francis Chichester. Visitors who would like to head out on the waters can board any of the boats or ferries nearby. On the quayside, there are the Mayflower Steps, the National Marine Aquarium, and a host of eating and drinking establishments.

Visitors can also find Island House, a late 16th century building which overlooks Sutton Harbour. Some of the Pilgrim Fathers are said to have lodged here before departing on their voyage to the New World.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Plymouth.