Giants set to return to Plymouth Hoe this summer

23rd June 2025

Plymouth Hoe Giants will be returning to their rightful place beneath the Citadel on Plymouth Hoe this week thanks to the efforts of local historian Chris Robinson MBE, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, Plymouth Albion and Plymouth City Council and is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Their reappearance rekindles a captivating local myth and reinforces the city's rich maritime and trading history.

The colossal figures, depicting the mythical wrestling match between the giant Gogmagog and the Trojan warrior Corineus, were first recreated on the Hoe in 2021 by artist Charles Newington to celebrate Plymouth’s 4,000-year role as one of the country’s greatest trading ports. The Giants hark back to the Bronze Age tin trade from Dartmoor via Mount Batten, around 1500 to 2000 BC.

Kim Downer, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership: "We are absolutely thrilled to see the return of the Giants to the banks of the Citadel. These magnificent figures are more than just a unique art installation; they are a powerful link to Plymouth's ancient myths and our city's unique history.

This installation wouldn’t be possible without funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the passion and dedication of Chris and Charles to maintain the Giants’ place in Plymouth folklore.”

Chris Robinson MBE, local historian: “It’s hugely important that we continue to celebrate and remember the myths, legends and history that shaped, and shapes, Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City. The return of the Giants to the Citadel grounds this summer, known also as the ‘Lost Gods of Albion’ [the original name of this country] reminds us all of the rich heritage and trading prowess of this city.

I’m grateful to artist Charles Newington for his efforts once again to enable the return of the Giants to Plymouth, and to Seth Lakeman for writing a specially commissioned song for this installation, ‘The Giants of Plymouth Hoe’. Thank you also to the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.”

Councillor Jemima Laing, deputy leader of Plymouth City Council added: “It’s great to see the Giants return! They are a reminder of some of the myths surrounding the Hoe and anything that celebrates our amazing history in such a visual and accessible way gets my support.”

The painted Giants will be situated on the prominent grassy bank directly below the Citadel from Saturday 28 June. Players from Plymouth Albion Rugby Club will be helping with the installation.

James Greenacre, Commercial Director, Plymouth Albion said:‘As a club with 150 years of proud history rooted in the heart of Plymouth, we’re delighted to support the return of the Plymouth Giants. While the story may be legend, the tribute it pays to the strength, resilience and identity of our city is very real. At Plymouth Albion, we honour the legacy of those who came before us while looking ahead to a bold and ambitious future for our club and community.’

Historical accounts suggest that the Giants would have been the first thing the Mayflower Pilgrims would have seen entering Plymouth Sound in 1620, and the last thing they would have seen on leaving, bound for America. In 2025 it will be the thousands of locals and visitors alike who enjoy visiting Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, who will get to enjoy the Giants throughout the summer.