Since Saxon times, Plymouth has been a fortified coastal settlement, and it's history centres on maritime activities. Plymouth is the Waterfront City that shaped the lives of Drake, The Pilgrim Fathers, Darwin, Cook and many more who set sail from her harbour. It's many seafaring explorers has resulted in over forty places throughout the world bearing it's name.

Sir Francis Drake, the first Englishman to sail around the world (1577-1580), was born in Plymouth in 1540, the eldest of twelve brothers. When war with Spain erupted in 1585, Drake's heroics severely disrupted the Spanish campaign and it was not until 1588 that they were able to launch the Armada. Drake, now a vice-admiral, famously refused to curtail his game of bowls when the Armada was sighted.





The Pilgrim Fathers departed on the 16th of September 1620, with 102 passengers. After 65 days they anchored in Princetown where they drew up the Mayflower Compact - the basis of the first of The New World's written laws. "Plymouth Harbour" was chosen as their first settlement on the 21st of December. A plaque at the Mayflower Steps commemorates the departure of the Mayflower and lists all the passengers.




The Barbican was the medieval centre of the city and to-day, whilst no longer the city centre, it remains the heart. The narrow lanes and little alleyways, once trod by Drake, Raleigh and Cook, still lead the visitor to fascinating areas. There are pubs, restuarants, art galleries, craft and antique shops, the Plymouth Gin distillery, and a busy fishing harbour and market. Modern additions include the National Marine Aquarium and a glassworks.




The Hoe offers spectacular views across the Sound to Drake's Island and is the site of Smeatons Tower. The Tower is the top portion of the 1759 Eddystone Lighthouse and rebuilt here in 1882. Below the Hoe is "The Dome", a stunning voyage through four centuries of Plymouth's maritime past.
To really appreciate the City it is neccessary to take a boat trip, following the course of England's ancient mariners: cruise down The Sound; pass the historic naval dockyards; around Drake's Island; and under the city's fortifications.