Historic Maritime Plymouth walking Tour

OVERVIEW

Trace the rich maritime history of Plymouth on an enlightening walk around the old harbor where the likes of Sir Francis Drake, James Cook and the pilgrims launched their ships. A short walk from the pier will take you to the Plymouth Hoe, an open grassy plateau that overlooks the sea. The name “hoe” derives from an Anglo-Saxon word for “high ridge.” It was here in 1588 that Sir Francis Drake spotted the approaching Spanish Armada. According to legend, Drake finished playing a game of bowls rather than rush to his fleet, knowing the tides would delay the armada. A statue of Drake stands over the Hoe, commemorating his maritime accomplishments. Plymouth has a long seafaring history because of its fine natural harbor. In the Barbican area near the old Sutton Harbour, you will see the Mayflower Steps where the pilgrims departed for America in 1620. Countless others left for America in their wake. The historical Barbican is also where Captain James Cook set sail for the South Pacific. Fortunately, the Barbican escaped heavy damage in The Blitz of World War II. Today, it has been wonderfully restored to highlight its cobbled streets and Elizabethan warehouses, and plenty of shops, galleries and restaurants have sprung up. Finally, you will walk the wide boulevard Royal Parade that leads to the Theatre Royal, one of the largest regional theatres in the United Kingdom. From here, you can transfer back to the pier or stay to shop and return later on your own.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Be immersed in maritime history as you walk legendary Plymouth harbor with a knowledgeable guide.
• Ascend to the high ridge where Drake spotted the Spanish Amada approaching Plymouth – and kept bowling a while longer.
• Visit the Mayflower Steps marking the spot where 102 passengers set sail into history in 1620.
• Wander atmospheric Elizabethan streets in the Barbican district, with modern Plymouth just nearby.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.