Are you looking to explore the history of Plymouth through the ages? There are a number of historical destinations in Plymouth including the time-honored buildings, monuments, palaces, and parks where you can learn about the glorious past of Plymouth. The presence of these historical sites and museums will take you on a walk through Plymouth ‘s rich history.
If you are willing to have an in-depth historical information about Plymouth, we recommend that you take a wonderful guided tour to cover the major historical attractions. Also, check the opening and closing time for each so that you can organize your time. Make sure that you go through the complete list of historical places in Plymouth for a great trip!
Top Historical Places in Plymouth
Let's witness the history of Plymouth with these top historical places - monuments and landmarks:
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Built by the Cistercians, Buckland Abbey dates back to 700 years ago. A museum and a part house, Buckland Abbey is filled with treasures like legendary Drake’s Drum. The great Barn surrounding the Abbey is also a must-visit, since most of it has been preserved just the way it was, for centuries! Beautiful meadows, orchards, woodlands and great views of Tavy valley- a trip to Buckland Abbe...Read more -
An important victualling depot of the British Royal Navy, the Royal William Victualling Yard was named after King William IV. Built between 1826 and 1835, the site occupies 16 acres of area. Although the Yard was closed in 1992, it is a Grade I listed property and is termed as the grandest of the royal victualling yards. Most of the building remains unaltered and is one of the most magnificent ...Read more -
Mount Edgcumbe House
(23 Votes)
The former home of the Earls of Mount Edgecumbe, it is situated in the Grade I Cornish garden within the 865 acres of country park in South East Cornwall. Mount Edgcumbe House is the former home of the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe. Dating back to the 1500s, the home was restored after WW II and is one of the most popular historic destinations in the area. The heritage home and the garden is the perf...Read more -
The best kept monument of the Lord Palmerston’s Ring of fire surrounding the city of Plymouth in Victorian times, protecting the Royal Dockyard at Devonport from the French attack. Retained by the army for over a century, the fort did not go under any major refurbishments and is pretty much the same as it was since the time it was built. The weaponry is maintained and can be obtained on t...Read more -
Ford Park Cemetery
(14 Votes)
Spread over 34 acres, this is a cemetery in the heart of the city and dates back to 1848. Created to relieve the overcrowding of the Parish churchyards, it was the main cemetery of the three towns during the Victorian era. Approximately, a quarter million people are buried under the ground of the cemetery. The famous graves are that of Reverend Robert Stephen Hawker, 752 war grave from WW I, 19...Read more -
The Merchant's House
(20 Votes)
Located in city’s oldest streets, the Merchant’s house is a historic building and is one of the finest surviving 17th century residences. Home to three mayors of Plymouth including William Parker, a friend of Sir Francis Drake, it is packed with the history of the city and collectibles dating back to 16th and 17th century. Climb up the winding stairs; observe the 17th century Trelaw...Read more -
Elizabethan House
(41 Votes)
Located on the Plymouth Barbican, Elizabethan house is the furnished home of an Elizabethan merchant. Often known for the paranormal happenings, the cobbled stones at the top floor, the windows and the creaking floor boards will surely give you a shiver. Drop in for that ghostly chill! -
Mayflower Steps
(107 Votes)
This is the very spot which is believed to be the starting point for the Pilgrim Fathers on their journey to North America in 1620. Flanked by British and American flags, these steps mark the beginning of the voyage of 102 passengers who set sail on the Mayflower to Northern America. Remains of the cobbled grade II pier can still be seen. The steps were rebuilt over the period of time but the s...Read more -
Royal Citadel
(15 Votes)
Built in the late 1660’s, the Royal Citadel is located at the eastern end of Plymouth Hoe and overlooks the Plymouth Sound. Encompassing the site of the fort built by Sir Francis Drake, the citadel was built during the Dutch Wars of 1664-67 by King Charles II. The fort emphasized on the importance of Plymouth as channel port in the war and the unique structure ensured that the guns could ...Read more -
Dating back to 1657, the Charles Church is the second most ancient Parish church in Plymouth. It was demolished on the night of 21st March 1941 by the WW II bombing and was not rebuilt. Today, the ruins stand of what was once an important spiritual centre of the city for 300 years. A landmark of Plymouth, a visit to Charles Church will give you an insight to the spiritual and historical importa...Read more