Plymouth isn’t Devon’s prettiest town, but it might just be one of the most historic. And Devon has so many pretty towns, that it’s hard to compete, unless you’re regenerating your historic waterfront, and attracting top chefs and hip bars and cafes to it, which is exactly what’s been happening in Plymouth. And the best places to stay in Plymouth really reflect this upturn in the city’s style, whilst still making the most of Plymouth’s incredible naval heritage too.
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Much of Plymouth’s port was bombed out during WW2, and the rebuild was more function than form, but the new developments, at Royal William Yard for example, have carefully transformed navy supply buildings to homes for trendy boutiques, bars and restaurants. And during the summer there’s an open-air cinema and theatre.
Whatever you’re here for it’s unthinkable to visit the city without visiting the Royal Citadel, which is now a military base, and exploring the ramparts, which are still armed with cannons. The Barbican area is also a key sight; it’s one of the few parts of Plymouth not damaged during WW2, and its pretty streets are lined with Georgian, Jacobean, or Tudor era properties, some of which now house excellent restaurants, and some of the best places to stay in Plymouth.
Smeaton’s Tower has incredible views over Plymouth Harbour, the aquarium is the UK’s largest and Plymouth is also known for its gin distilleries. But if Plymouth is just a sort of hub for things you want to do in this part of South Devon then you might want to opt for one of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Plymouth that aren’t actually in the centre of town. And there are quite a few, ranging from country house hotels to wonderfully peaceful rural B&Bs.