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Plymouth

Plymouth was Brittany Ferries first port in the UK, ever since the first sailing arrived in 1973. The city has a long maritime history with great explorers such as Drake and the Pilgrim Fathers departing from the city. The early 20th Century saw transatlantic liners call into Plymouth before crossing the North Atlantic. In more recent times the ports role as a major Naval Base has increased at Devonport Dockyard, which is currently the home of Britain's' nuclear submarine fleet. Plymouth's 'Spirit of Discovery' is relived in its many tourist attractions and historic seafront.

Our Guide

Plymouth has always taken the initiative when attracting tourists to the city, and has an impressive and diverse range of attractions. Its location not only offers the delights of the city, but gives easy access to Dartmoor National Park. The National Marine Aquarium boasts Europe's largest sea water tank, located on the seafront in the historic Barbican. The Pilgrim fathers set sail from here at the 'Mayflower Steps'. The sea front has just seen the completion of a major investment plan which has seen the refurbishment of Tinside Pool, an open air swimming pool right on the waterfront. Plymouth Pavilions, as well as offering a leisure pool and ice rink, has regular shows by tour bands, and at the Theatre Royal you can watch famous west end style shows.

Accommodation

A night in Plymouth is ideal if you are catching an early morning ferry and don't want an early morning drive to the port. Staying in Plymouth will also put you in an ideal position to explore the city and its many attractions. Plymouth offers a wide range of hotel accommodation, bfenthusiasts do have a selection of hotels in which we have stayed and which we recommended:

Holiday Inn is located on Plymouth Hoe with rooms offering a view over the magnificent Plymouth Sound. In its central location the ferryport is just a 2 minute drive away, and the city centre a 5 minute walk. The hotel offers an informal friendly service, with rooms starting at £60 per night.

A newly constructed Travel Lodge is located just a five minute walk from the port, located in the heart of the city centre overlooking the Theatre Royal and the cinema complex. A basic 'one night' hotel with prices starting at £25 per night.

Restaurants

We highly recommend the 'China House' which is on the Barbican. A restored building converted into a pub/restaurant serving fabulous food with friendly service. The 'Waterfront' is another of our favourites, a busy spot on the Hoe with a smart bar attached offering outstanding views over Plymouth Sound and beyond.

Transport

By Car: Access to Plymouth from the rest of the UK is via the 'Devon Expressway' - the A38 which connects directly with the M5 at Exeter.

By Train: Plymouth is located on the Great Western mainline from London, with direct service to Paddington with First Great Western. Crosscountry trains also operate to Manchester and the North of England. South West Trains also run services to London via Salisbury until December 2009.

By Sea: Local ferry services to Torpoint (car chain ferry), and Mount Edgecombe.

By Bus: First and City Bus operate services in Plymouth.