Plymouth Town in Devon

Plymouth lies between the River Plym to the east and the River Tamar to the west, with both rivers flowing into the natural harbour of Plymouth Sound. It is the largest city in Devon with over 260,000 inhabitants. The city is joined to Cornwall by the Tamar road Bridge, built in 1961.

Plymouth is first mentioned in the early thirteenth century when the potential of the natural harbour as a commercial port and military base is first recognised.

In about 1400, Plymouth became England's main naval base, controlling the Western Approaches against any agression from Spain.

Due to its waterside location, Plymouth has a host of marine industries as well as the huge presence of the military. The Royal Naval Base at Devonport, The Royal Marine Barracks at Stonehouse and the 42 Commando base at Bickleigh to name a few.

An often overlooked area is Plymouth Hoe - an oasis of peace in the busy city. This is where Sir Francis Drake famously finished off his game of bowls before embarking in the Golden Hind on his way to destroy the Spanish Armada in July 1588.

The National Marine Aquarium, opened in May 1998, is the largest aquarium in the United Kingdom and is a nagnificent addition to the city's Barbican district. It complenents the historic Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers sailed from in 1620.

Plymouth Polytechnic along with almost 30 other higher education establishments were amalgamated into the University of Plymouth in 1992 bringing the city an influx of young people.

Today Plymouth offers a wide range of attractions, locations and activities to please its diverse clientele including:

* Drakes Circus Shopping Centre
* Theatre Royal
* PLymouth Pavilions
* Smeaton's Tower

Dining out near Plymouth

Chloe's, Plymouth

Veggie Perrin's, Plymouth

Bella Italia, Plymouth, Plymouth

Tanner's Restaurant, Plymouth

Bistro One, Plymouth

The Wet Wok, Plymouth

Nando, Plymouth

The Artillery Tower, Plymouth

Kitley House, Yealmpton

The Miners Arms, Hemerdon, Hemerdon