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Plymouth’s story is woven into every cobbled street, grand building, and windswept waterfront. This summer, make a day of it in Plymouth by exploring some of Britain’s most fascinating historic sites, where centuries of adventure, innovation, and resilience come to life.
Royal William Yard 200: Naval Grandeur Reimagined
Celebrating its 200th anniversary, Royal William Yard stands as a testament to Plymouth’s naval legacy. Once the largest victualling yard in Europe, its Grade I-listed buildings now house independent restaurants, galleries, and vibrant cultural events.
The 200 Stories celebrations include summer History Trail and activities throughout the summer. They will uncover the human connections to the site, as well as uncovering the hidden histories and experiences that have shaped this special part of Plymouth over two centuries.
Rail 200: tracing two centuries of rail heritage
2025 marks 200 years since the dawn of railway innovation in Britain, and Plymouth’s own railway story is celebrated throughout the city. Discover the pivotal role the railway played in connecting Plymouth to the rest of the country, transforming trade, travel, and daily life. Explore the new trail on the Plymouth Trails App, which guides you on a journey through the city’s rail landmarks and hidden stories.
The Barbican & Mayflower Museum: Pilgrims and Pioneers
Wander the atmospheric Barbican, where Plymouth’s maritime roots run deep. Here you’ll find the Mayflower Steps – marking the spot where the Pilgrims set sail for the New World in 1620 – and the Mayflower Museum, which brings this iconic voyage to life with engaging exhibits and family-friendly displays. The Barbican’s Elizabethan streets, independent shops, and harbourside cafés capture the spirit of old Plymouth at every turn.
Plymouth Hoe & Smeaton’s Tower: Legends and Landmarks
Plymouth Hoe is the city’s historic heart, offering panoramic views over Plymouth Sound and a front-row seat to centuries of seafaring drama. Climb Smeaton’s Tower, the iconic red-and-white lighthouse, and imagine Sir Francis Drake playing bowls as the Spanish Armada approached. The Hoe is also home to the Royal Citadel, Armada Monument, and moving naval memorials – each telling a chapter of Plymouth’s proud story.
Elizabethan House & Prysten House: Stepping Back in Time
Tucked away on the Barbican, the Elizabethan House invites you to experience 400 years of history in an authentically restored merchant’s home. Nearby, Prysten House – one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings – offers a rare glimpse into Tudor Plymouth with its ancient stone walls and rich merchant heritage.
Stately stories in and around Plymouth
Venture just beyond the city centre to discover a collection of remarkable National Trust properties, each steeped in stories of exploration, creativity, and aristocratic heritage. These historic houses offer a peaceful retreat, with elegant interiors and beautifully kept gardens that invite you to slow down and step back in time.
Saltram House is a grand Georgian mansion surrounded by landscaped parkland, where lavish rooms and an impressive art collection reflect the opulence of 18th-century life. Buckland Abbey weaves together over 700 years of history, its atmospheric halls once home to Sir Francis Drake and filled with the spirit of adventure and discovery. At Cotehele, a Tudor gem perched above the River Tamar, four floors of history reveal the fascinating legacy of the Edgcumbe family, who lived there for more than six centuries, preserving stories, traditions, and treasures through the ages.
Make a day of it in Plymouth
From Royal William Yard’s naval grandeur to the Barbican’s seafaring legends, Plymouth’s heritage is yours to discover this summer. Follow the trails, step inside centuries-old buildings, and let the city’s history inspire your own adventure.
For further themed Plymouth inspiration, exclusive offers and things to do in the city, sign up to our free Visit Plymouth e-newsletter.
In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner
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