Top Rated Attractions in Plymouth

The Plymouth City Centre is a pedestrianized area at the very heart of the city. As a shopping destination, the Plymouth City Centre could easily rival some of Devon and Cornwall's most cherished offerings. From independent boutiques and specialty stores offering one-of-a-kind pieces, to high street brands, designer boutiques and shopping centers like the Drake Circus, the Plymouth City Centre has something to suit every taste and budget. As you stroll down the streets of this iconic neighborhood, you will find yourself in the midst of some excellent examples of post-war architecture, including several buildings that are considered local historic landmarks. A walking architectural tour of the Plymouth City Centre can be found online. With its dazzling big screen, the Piazza is the Plymouth City Centre's crown jewel and is often the venue for festivals and outdoor events. With so many cafes, restaurants, boutiques and historic sites to explore, the Plymouth City Centre is an attraction that is much-loved by locals and tourists alike.

This is the oldest Ashkenazi Synagogue in the English speaking world, built on the site of a spring used for ritual washing. It was dedicated in 1762 and is in regular use to this day. The interior is striking, with beautiful windows, a gallery and lighting from a huge Victorian brass chandelier. Against the eastern wall is the only full-blooded Baroque Ark surviving in this country, complete with shadow painting of the Hebrew characters. There is now only a small but dedicated congregation worshiping at this orthodox synagogue, but regular tours are open to the general public.

Ever since it was established, Effervescent has gained a reputation of organizing clutter-breaking art exhibitions covering various genres like welfare, heritage and wellness. Radiant Art Gallery was set up in the erstwhile Halifax tower on Derry's Cross Road. The art gallery remains a one-of-its-kind venture, for it is the only one managed by a bunch of young minds. It hosts several art shows and exhibitions which portray the concerns of the locals, as well as their interests and hobbies.

Close to the historic Barbican is a four story Jacobean town house, now an enchanting museum which encapsulates the history of Plymouth. The Merchant's House was built in 1608 for one William Parker, a privateer, friend of Sir Francis Drake, and Lord Mayor of Plymouth. Each floor of the house tells a different story. Discover how the Great Western Railway and Isambard Kingdom Brunel's railway bridge were constructed. See a Victorian schoolroom, or learn about the growth of trade in the Tailor Room. Social inequalities are vividly portrayed in the Rich Man's Room, and you can share the experiences of local people during the Blitz, and the rebuilding of their devastated city. The top floor is given over to Park Pharmacy Trust, a fascinating time capsule of pharmaceutical history. Here you can see carboys in amber, yellow, red and blue (the apothecary's elements), herbal remedies, shampoos, preparations and perfumes.

This Methodist church, set in a large imposing building, is dedicated to serving the local community in a friendly and relaxed environment. To accomplish this they have added the Discovery Centre alongside, which comprises cafe, shop and prayer chapel for the use of shoppers and visitors. They also welcome visitors to their Sunday services and activities. At 11a they celebrate Morning Worship, during which the children can attend Junior Church or creche. There are two Sunday evening services. At 6:15p they hold Evening Praise, a time of traditional and contemporary worship, led by the Central Hall Singers, organ and piano. At 8p is Celebration Praise, worship of a freer style where there is opportunity for prayer and ministry.

Located in the Devonport Dockyard Plymouth heritage site, Devonport Naval Heritage Centre features a collection representing support to the Royal Navy fleet anchored at Plymouth since Edward I's era. Assemblage at this museum includes personal kits, badges, uniform, naval stores, ship and Royal Yacht models. Tours of this maritime museum let you explore the 19th, 18th and 15th-century industrial structures, historical submarines and ships. Extensive archives associated with Devonport Dockyard's history are also found at this museum. Popular artifacts include foundry items, ancient ship figureheads, diving equipment and HMS Courageous submarine. Please note that tours must be booked at least five days in advance, and ten days for foreign nationals.