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Plymouth

This University city by the sea boasts a rich combination of heritage and natural beauty in a thriving city environment. America's heritage also originates in Plymouth when it's forefathers set sail from Plymouth, England back in 1620. Every year in November, Plymouth hosts American Thanksgiving celebrations. Why not celebrate Thanksgiving where your forefathers came from?

Other famous explorers also have connections with the city. The Barbican is where Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh once weighed anchor. Today you can find a bustling community of specialist shops, restaurants, cafes and world-class attractions, all in a picturesque setting.

Stand where the Pilgrim Fathers stood before they embarked on the Mayflower to discover the new world in 1646, and learn about their voyage at the Plymouth Mayflower exhibition. Enjoy a tour and sample the renowned Plymouth Gin and their historic distillery or maybe visit the National Marine Aquarium - now the largest aquarium in Great Britain with the deepest tank in Europe.

A short walk away is Plymouth Hoe where Sir Francis Drake played bowls as the Spanish Armada approached. If you have the energy, climb the 93 steps to the top of Smeaton's Tower, the Old Eddystone lighthouse. From the top you have fabulous views of the Hoe and beyond.

The starting point of so many voyages of discovery, the Barbican is also the place to start a Plymouth Sound river cruise which gives an entirely different view of this waterfront city.

A walk along Plymouth's Waterfront Walkway allows you to explore the history and magnificent setting of the maritime city, and to see the city's natural harbour. Beyond this, you can continue your walk along part of the South West Coast Path, taking in the dramatic views of the sea.

Experience Plymouth's rich artistic heritage with the Barbican's speciality shops, craft workshops such as Glassworks and art galleries. Many local artists have won global reputations, including Beryl Cook, Lee Woods, Brian Pollard and the late Robert Lenckiewiecz.

When you are hungry or thirsty, you are spoilt for choice. Choose from stylish cafe bars, traditional West Country tea shops, fine fish restaurants or atmospheric taverns.

Plymouth accommodations

Stay either in Tavistock at the luxury Endsleigh Hotel on the edge of Dartmoor National Park (30 minutes drive from Plymouth or a picturesque train journey from Gunnislake) or at the 3* Kitley House Hotel (15 minutes drive from Plymouth).

Plymouth itineraries

View suggested itineraries including Plymouth.