Plymouth

Plymouth combines all the vibrancy of a modern city with the heritage of a historic port. Its wealth of attractions and facilities, plus wide range of accommodation, make it an inviting destination for day trips and short breaks and, with its outstanding location between moors and sea, a perfect base for touring.

Visit www.visitplymouth.co.uk

Start your voyage of discovery by visiting spectacular Plymouth Hoe where you can climb Smeaton's Tower Lighthouse to enjoy the best view in Plymouth.

In the Elizabethan Barbican, you will find the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America, and Plymouth Gin Distillery, producers of Plymouth Gin since 1793. Nearby is the National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK with the deepest tank in Europe. Get a taste of Plymouth's seafaring history with a cruise into Plymouth Sound and up the River Tamar, past the Devonport Royal Dockyards, with its frigates and nuclear submarines; you can admire too Isambard Kingdom Brunel's Saltash Bridge.

The city is the region's shopping capital. The modern pedestrian centre, with its floral displays and water features, is a delight for shoppers and sitting alongside is the recently opened Drake's Circus shopping centre. You will find all the major retailers and a host of independent specialist outlets in Plymouth.

After dark the city comes alive with restaurants, clubs and bars. The Theatre Royal, one of the best theatres in the country, has a programme ranging from drama to musicals and Plymouth Pavilions is the major concert venue.

Many of Devon's fascinating historic houses are within easy access of Plymouth and the Tamar Valley railway line gives you the freedom to enjoy this entrancing area.