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Plymouth, the largest city in the Westcountry after Bristol, is often considered the gateway to the South West region of England. With the Plym and Tamar rivers on its sides and facing the Plymouth Sound, it's no wonder that Plymouth has a robust maritime tradition involving both merchant and navy shipping. The small island in the centre of the Sound, Drake's Island, is named after the famous seafarer.
Plymouth has been a functional port for centuries. The Sound has served as an anchorage and harbour since the early days. Plymouth's evolution into a significant UK port began in the 15th century, with the construction of larger Royal Navy ships that required a deeper anchorage. Today, Plymouth is one of the Royal Navy's primary bases, with warships often seen at anchor in the Sound and along the riverfront.
Plymouth has been the starting point for many historical voyages of discovery and conquest. The most famous of these is the defeat of the Spanish Armada by Sir Francis Drake and the English fleet. Other notable voyages include Sir Francis Drake's circumnavigation of the globe in the Golden Hind, the Pilgrim Fathers setting sail for America in the Mayflower in 1620, and Captain James Cook's voyage in search of new lands in 1768.
Modern-day Plymouth is a vibrant city with a diverse mix of commercial activities and attractions for visitors. The recently opened Drakes Circus is an attractive shopping mall featuring many leading brands. Plymouth Hoe, overlooking the Sound, is a well-known spot for military parades and has even seen the Queen visit to present new colours to the Navy. The Hoe is also home to Smeaton's Tower, a brightly painted lighthouse, and the Royal Citadel, a large defensive camp established in 1670 by Charles II.
There's a wealth of activities available around the coastal area, from surfing and sailing to bird watching and walking. A vast selection of attractions, from piers and harbours to fun fairs and roller coasters, is available in the area.
You can also find a variety of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and shops in the area. Whether you're looking for a cosy pub, a high-end restaurant, a vibrant nightclub or a unique shopping experience, you'll find it in Plymouth.