With a rich maritime heritage, lovely marina, one of the country’s oldest gin distilleries and great seafood, Britain’s Ocean City Plymouth is steeped in history.
The city was once an important trade and commercial shipping port, and now is a base for the Royal Navy.
Beyond this however, this vibrant port town has a contemporary vibe and comes with lively bars, colourful shops and funky new hotels.
Where to stay in Plymouth
One of the newest hotels on Plymouth’s scene is the Moxy Hotel, close to Plymouth Hoe with its scenic views and 72-foot-tall Smeaton’s Tower.
Moxy is as different from the traditional grand old Victorian seaside hotels as it could be.
You enter into a bright foyer with a huge blue ocean scene mural, colourful chairs and comfortable furnishings.
There is no reception area, you just alert a friendly member of staff at the bar that you have arrived while having a look round the relaxed informal surroundings bright with artworks, which continue the seafaring theme with giant fish and waves crashing along the walls.
Designed to appeal to the young at heart, I am told that there is no typical clientele – the hotel doesn’t judge and its ok if you come to breakfast in your pyjamas.
Part of Marriott International group, there are hundreds of Moxy hotels around the world including 17 in the UK and each described as playful, affordable and stylish.
The 200 rooms are airy and smart, with lots of space. Dogs are welcome and there are 42-inch Chromecast TVs. There are flexible working spaces for those who need them and cocktails and snacks available at the 24/7 Grab and Go station.
Moxy is close to the station and ferry port as well as the beaches and great seafood restaurant, ideal for busy travellers who will love the signature Moxy all perks and no fuss feel.
Website: marriott.com
Things to do in Plymouth
Plymouth Gin Distillery
Established in 1793, the Plymouth Distillery is the oldest working distillery in England. A tour around the building will show you the ins and outs of gin making, and you can sample the stuff at the distillery’s Refectory Bar.
Address: 60 Southside Street , Plymouth PL1 2LQ
Website: plymouthdistillery.com
National Marine Aquarium
This is the UK’s largest aquarium and home to an abundance of underwater creatures. The place is divided into four zones, that house things that live deep underwater, closer to shore, reef dwellers and a whole lot more. The aquarium even has its own shark nursery.
Address: Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth PL4 0LF
Website: national-aquarium.co.uk
Saltram
Overlooking the River Plym on the outskirts of Plymouth, this old 18th century country mansion is set in sculptures 19th century gardens. It is a working estate that includes farmland, beach, salt marshes, meadows and woodland that are ideal for easy countryside strolls or cycles.
Address: Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 1UH
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk
The Barbican
You’ll find some of Plymouth’s oldest buildings along The Barbican’s cobbled road. The area is home to more than 200 Heritage Listed buildings and many of these are Tudor and Jacobean. The Barbican is also home to many independent shops, cafes and restaurants, so an exploration of this picturesque bit of the town comes with big rewards.
Website: visitplymouth.co.uk
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