Plymouth, the Waterfront City, shaped the lives of Drake, the Pilgrim Fathers, Darwin, Cook and many more who set sail from her harbour with their own 'Spirit of Discovery'.

Visit Plymouth and start your voyage of discovery by visiting the spectacular Plymouth Hoe, where Drake played his famous game of bowls. Climb up Plymouth's best known landmark, Smeaton's Tower Lighthouse and enjoy the most breathtaking view over Plymouth Sound and, when you have got your breath back, call in at Plymouth Dome to embark on a stunning voyage through four centuries of Plymouth's maritime past. At the Dome you can purchase tickets for guided tours of the Royal Citadel, England's principal 17th Century fortress built by King Charles II to guard the harbour from invasion from the sea (but with guns pointing towards the city because its citizens dared to join the Roundhead cause against King Charles II).

In the Elizabethan Barbican, where Plymouth's rich history comes alive, you can visit the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America and nearby Island House, now the Tourist Information Centre, where some of the Mayflower's passengers stayed. A plaque giving a full list of all those who made the epic voyage to the New World is on display. In New Street the Elizabethan House is a rare survival of a Tudor Sea Captain's timber frame dwelling, whilst the 200 year old Blackfriars Distillery is home of the real 'Spirit of Plymouth' - Plymouth Gin! The area is also the location for Plymouth's newest attractions - the Barbican Glassworks, situated in the beautifully restored old fish market, and the spectacular National Marine Aquarium. The narrow streets of the Barbican hold an array of individual and unique shops, the area being a mecca for art lovers with the many galleries particularly favouring the works of local artists.

The modern pedestrianised city centre, with its floral displays, water features and the largest range of shops in the region, is a delight for shoppers. There are street cafés and children's play areas, whilst ample seating allows shoppers to rest their feet and enjoy the exciting street entertainment. With its unique location between Dartmoor, the last great wilderness of Southern England, and the mellow South Devon coast, Plymouth is an ideal base for venturing into the countryside or onto the water. There are frequent boat trips departing from the Barbican and a trip on the lovely Tamar Valley Line railway is a must. Plymouth is blessed by the close proximity of a number of beautiful and historic houses like Drake's home at Buckland Abbey and the magnificent George II mansion of Saltram House (featured in the Oscar winning film Sense and Sensibility).

If it is entertainment you are looking for, Plymouth is the home of one of the best theatres in the country, the Theatre Royal, with a top class programme ranging from drama to musicals. Plymouth Pavilions is the major regional venue for both pop and classical concerts, top comedians and sporting events. For the energetic the Pavilions also houses the Atlantis Leisure Pool and the Swiss Lake Ice Rink! There is a wide variety of country and waterside pubs in the area, some featuring live music, plus a wide range of places to wine and dine, featuring food from around the world.

The city also has an excellent spread of accommodation ranging from small and cosy guest houses to the luxury of three and four star hotels. Throughout the city the visitor can discover a wealth of places to visit and things to do, by day and by night, in sunshine and in showers. Plymouth has it all!