Plymouth – Exploring The Devon Coast
December 14, 2009 by Trevor Johnson
Filed under Destinations
Plymouth is a beautiful city along the Devon Coast. It is to the south west of London located between the Plym River and the Tamar River. Plymouth has an extensive history as many artifacts have been uncovered form the Bronze Age and during the Iron Age it was a major trading port. The town had several fortifications built during Tudor and Elizabethan times to protect the city. Two of these towers can still be found by the Royal Citadel and Mount Batten.
The main industry of Plymouth was wool during the 16th century but it was also a hot spot for maritime trade. This is where the pilgrims set sail to establish a colony on the New World and Sir Francis Drake sailed his ship from Plymouth for the Spanish Armada.
Eventually the maritime industry declined as the cost of exporting form Plymouth became too great. The construction of the dockyards at Plymouth produced an affluent time due to shipbuilding as the dockyards produced much of the wealth in the 17th and 18th century. It was around the dockyards that much development occurred during this period.
Plymouth was important during the Second World War as the dockyards were converted to accommodate submarines and aircraft carries. Because of the military use they were also heavily bombed by the Germans. Once the war was over all of the military but the 42 Commando Royal Marines left Plymouth.
The geology around Plymouth is of particular interest and has been labeled an area of special scientific interest as you can find a mixture of granite, limestone and slate. A lot of the buildings in the city have been constructed using the local limestone. Plymouth also has a favorable weather to the rest of the country as it is milder but also wetter. These conditions make it perfect for growing more exotic plants.
Union Street is always a popular stop as there is plenty of history. This street is the spot for entertainment and a particular favorite of the military.
A great time to visit Plymouth is in August during the British Firework Championships. Thousands of people flock to Plymouth to view the fireworks.
Find your next Plymouth hotel here.