Plan a CruisePlymouth, a historic seafaring port, is nestled within the impressive natural harbor of Plymouth Sound. Most large cruise ships arriving in Plymouth will utilize tenders to bring passengers ashore to the modern Cruise Terminal. The terminal provides facilities such as a café, bureaux de change, a free car park, disabled toilets, and low-level pay phones. While the walk from the terminal to the city center is described as "rather long," it is certainly doable for those who prefer to explore on foot. Plymouth is a popular destination, known for its seaside attractions and rich maritime history.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon arrival at the Cruise Terminal, taxis are readily available and can take you to the city center for approximately £12 each way. While walking to the center is possible, it is a considerable distance. For exploring further afield, the 93 double-decker bus departs from the Plymouth bus station and offers scenic routes towards Salcombe and Dartmouth, showcasing the beautiful countryside. Boat tours are highly recommended to experience Plymouth's natural harbor, one of the best in Europe. These typically depart from the Barbican, often near the Mayflower Steps, and last between 1-3 hours, covering sights like the Navy dockyard, Brunel's Bridge, and the Hoe foreshore.
Attractions and Activities
Plymouth offers a blend of historic charm and modern attractions.
- Historic Harbour & Barbican: Wander through England's highest concentration of cobbled streets, explore cozy cafes, pubs, shops, and galleries. Don't miss enjoying traditional fish and chips or ice cream by the sea.
- Mayflower Steps & Museum: Visit the Mayflower Steps, commemorating the Pilgrims' 1620 departure for America, and then explore the nearby Mayflower Museum to delve deeper into this significant journey.
- Plymouth Hoe: This breathtaking promenade offers unbeatable panoramic views of Plymouth Sound. It's the reputed site where Sir Francis Drake played bowls before defeating the Spanish Armada. You'll also find memorials to Plymouth greats like Lady Nancy Astor.
- Smeaton's Tower & Tinside Lido: Climb Smeaton's Tower, a former lighthouse offering great views, or take a refreshing dip in the art-deco Tinside Lido on the foreshore.
- National Aquarium: Voted "Aquarium of the Year" and "Devon Family Attraction of the Year" in 2003, it's a popular choice for families.
- Crownhill Fort & Elizabethan Buildings: Explore Crownhill Fort or take a stroll along New Street to admire listed buildings, including the Elizabethan House and Elizabethan Gardens.
- Beyond the City: For those looking to venture out, consider the wildlife park or Buckfast Abbey just outside town. Dartmoor National Park, one of the UK's finest unspoiled landscapes, is also within reach. Morwellham Quay, an historic shipyard, port, and copper mine reconstructed to its 1860s appearance with costumed staff, offers a unique step back in time.
Dining & Shopping
Plymouth is the largest shopping hub in the South West, outside of Bristol, offering a diverse range of independent retailers and national brands. For top brand names, visit Drake Circus shopping centre. If you're seeking unique, independent shops, explore the West End, home to Plymouth Market, which features over 100 individual stores and highly-rated eateries. When it comes to dining, enjoying fish and chips or ice cream by the sea in the historic harbor area is a quintessential Plymouth experience.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the British Pound (£), sometimes referred to as "quid." Cash machines (ATMs), informally known as "holes in the wall," are widely available and typically dispense £10 and £20 notes. Most shops and restaurants accept major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro. English is spoken throughout the country, though local accents can be strong. Many cafes and restaurants offer free WiFi. The emergency telephone number is 999, and the EU-wide 112 can also be used. General shopping hours are 10 am - 6 pm for small stores (6 or 7 days a week), with larger stores often staying open until 9 pm, and hypermarts sometimes operating 24/7.