Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Illuminated miniatures |
Hampton Avenue Plymouth, Devon TQ1 3LA United Kingdom +44 1803 31 5315 http://www.babbacombemodelvill... |
Sightseeing is easier on the legs at this wonderful model village. Wander around beautifully landscaped gardens filled with finely detailed thatched cottages, Georgian and Tudor buildings. Soak up the sights and sounds of the English countryside and marvel at the illuminations. Streams, waterfalls and lots of delightful humorous touches are spread before you at every turn. There are undercover display areas and sound and animation features. New features include a split level viewing gallery and display centre with daytime illuminations and Alien Realm. General illuminations are on show from Easter to the end of October. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Wardell  |
 Photo: John Wardell |
 Photo: Craig Bovis |
 Photo: sally wright |
 Photo: dave |
 Photo: Barrie.Mason |
 Photo: deborahs_postcards |
 Photo: Laura Whitehead |
 Photo: Will Cruttenden |
 Weasels and waterfalls |
Manaton Plymouth, Devon TQ13 9UG United Kingdom +44 1647 221259 http://www.beckyfalls-dartmoor... |
This is a privately owned area of outstanding natural beauty. Its sheltered valley has a wide variety of plant and animal life which can be seen by exploring nature trails of varying lengths and levels of difficulty. To minimise erosion, visitors must keep to the signed trails which offer everything from a gentle 20 minute walk to a tough 200 foot climb requiring stout boots and strong limbs. Goats, lambs, rabbits, ponies and rescued birds of prey can be seen at close quarters, but there is also a chance of seeing otter, mink, badgers, foxes, weasels and stoats in their natural habitat. The cascading waterfalls must not be missed after either picnicking at one of the woodland spots or trying out the fine restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Beautiful, romantic and haunted |
Berry Pomeroy Totnes Plymouth, Devon TQ9 6NJ United Kingdom +44 1803 86 6618 |
Reputed to be one of the most haunted castles in the country, Berry Pomeroy is a romantic ruin where legend has it that a lady of the house entombed her sister in the walls in a quarrel over a man. Set high above a wooded ravine, it is a double ruin, with an Elizabethan mansion inside the medieval castle walls. The medieval castle was built about 1300 by the Pomeroy family, who came over with William the Conqueror, and the mansion by the Duke of Somerset, whose descendants still own the property, which is managed by English Heritage. Special medieval events are held here and there is an excellent Tea Shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Hutchinson |
 Photo: Blurred Crusade |
 Photo: Steve Berry |
 Photo: Tom Gore |
 Photo: tUNIXX |
 Photo: Tony Platt |
 Photo: dave rautenbach. |
|
Honey, tonic wine and stained glass |
Buckfastleigh Plymouth TQ11 0EE United Kingdom +44 1364 645 500 http://www.buckfast.org.uk |
Founded in Saxon times by King Canute, dissolved by King Henry VIII in 1539, Buckfast was re-established by Benedictines from France in 1882. The present buildings, including the enormous church, were built by the monks, no more than nine at any one time, and completed in 1932 - truly a labour of love as well as an edifice of great beauty. Famous for their beekeeping, tonic wine and stained glass, the monks welcome visitors to enjoy the Abbey gardens, church, restaurant and various shops, including one in the mill which sells the unique produce of other monasteries around Europe. They sell a wide variety of products, including wines, beers and cordials; cosmetics; linens; food such as biscuits, cakes and cheeses, as well as beeswax and religious items. There is also a retreat facility and venue for conferences and lectures, such as the popular Time Team talk by Mick Aston. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bob Watts |
 Photo: Bob Watts |
 Photo: Dr Scott Arthur |
 Photo: David H Roberts |
 Photo: Judith Coghlan |
 Photo: Rosie Beale |
 Photo: Colin Sansom |
 Photo: LOUIS DALBY |
 Photo: Brian Haslam |
 Photo: Alison |
 Photo: MARK BRYAN |
 Photo: kevin branchett |
 Photo: Matthew |
 Photo: Gavin Stewart |
 Photo: Cat Hayward |
 Photo: Brian Smith |
 Photo: histman |
 Photo: Audrey Morgan |
 Photo: Carlie Giddings |
 Photo: Norshi16 |
|
History, fun and games for kids |
Yelverton Plymouth, Devon PL20 6EY United Kingdom +44 1822 85 3607 |
This National Trust property has an excellent record for providing fascinating events and activities for children. There are dozens of different events each season, so phone for details. Once Sir Francis Drake's Dartmoor home, and containing Drake's Drum (which they say will beat a warning if England is in dire peril), Buckland Abbey is steeped in history. Originally a 13th century Cistercian monastery, whose church is incorporated into the fabric of the house, it now contains many mementos and exhibits devoted to Drake's adventures and achievements. The grounds contain the magnificent monastic barn, craft workshops, herb garden and country walks, plus a new Elizabethan garden under construction. Admission to House & Garden:adult £4.60, child £2.30, family(2+3)£11.50. Grounds only, adults £2.40, child £1.20. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kim Precious, Plymouth |
 Photo: Sean Wright |
 Photo: T R I N E |
|
Fisherman's delight |
Nr Yelverton Plymouth, Devon PL20 United Kingdom +44 1837 85 5556 |
Burrator Reservoir was built in 1898 and is on the edge of the a Dartmoor National Park. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout. All fishermen must hold the correct EA Rod licence. Buy tickets from the ESSO Garage in Yelverton. The fishing runs from March 15th to October 12th. This is also an excellent place for walking, with footpaths around the lake. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Ashford (Plymouth, UK) |
 Photo: Neil Ashford (Plymouth, UK) |
 Photo: Jason Nolan |
 Photo: Robert Brimacombe |
 Photo: Steve Brien Plymouth |
 Photo: Tracy Cook |
 Photo: westcountryimages |
 Photo: phillip herdman |
 Photo: nick smart |
 Photo: mighty megx |
 Photo: Simon Hawkings |
 Photo: David Ayres |
 Photo: Scott Sunsburg |
 Photo: Martin Sarosi |
 Photo: Nawtcher |
|
Rock pools |
Mothercombe Near Yelmpton Plymouth, Devon PL8 ILB United Kingdom |
On days when Mothecombe Private Beach is closed the Coastguard's Beach is available, although there is a long climb up to the car park (£1.80). At high tide there is not much beach, but as the tide falls large amounts of sand are exposed. At low tide it is possible to wade across to Wonwell Beach. Swimming in the sea is not advisable, but at low tide there are rock pools. Ice creams can be bought from a small shop in the parking area, but there are no other facilities in the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Woodland walks through 450 Devon acres |
Cockington Plymouth, Devon TQ2 6XA United Kingdom +44 1803 607230 |
Four hundred and fifty acres of beautiful Devon parkland are available for you to enjoy every day of the year. You can take a carriage ride through the park and past the tranquil lakes. There are many woodland walks to stroll through, as well as more formal gardens in the old English style. The Rose Garden and Organic Kitchen Garden are sure to delight anyone with an interest in plants. You can walk through the woods to the quaint Gamekeeper's Cottage or the Norman church and nearby delightful thatched village of Cockington, where you can hire horses to ride the many bridle paths of the country park. The fascinating Cockington Court Craft Centre is also worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ondra Macoszek |
 Lutyens style house |
Brownstone Road, Coleton Kingswear, Dartmouth Plymouth, Devon TQ6 0EQ United Kingdom +44 1803 75 2466 |
Set in a valley amidst the spectacular scenery of the South Devon coast is this Lutyens style house, designed for Sir Rupert and Lady Dorothy D'Oyly Carte in 1925. The arts and crafts tradition is reflected in the house, and the interiors are refreshingly modern. Disabled access is restricted to the ground floor. The D'Oly Cartes created the fascinating garden, complete with with trees, spring-flowering shrubs and tender exotics and spectacular views over the ocean. In the spring wild flowers abound amid the rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas. The terraces and walled garden provide summer long interest. Paths descend to a small sea cove below. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Medieval enchantment |
St Dominick Plymouth, Cornwall PL12 6TA United Kingdom +44 1579 35 1346 |
One of the least altered medieval houses in England, Cotehele was owned by the Edgcumbe family for 600 years. They moved on to Mount Edgcumbe House in Tudor times, using Cotehele for family getaways and to show off to visitors, who marvelled at this medieval gem, just as we do today. The ancient granite walls house a fine collection of textiles, tapestries and early oak furniture, while the chapel contains the oldest working domestic clock in England. Warning - Cotehele weaves a magic spell, so that once you've been there you want to go back again and again. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Goddard |
|
Stewpond and sailing barge |
St Dominick Plymouth, Cornwall PL12 6TA United Kingdom +44 1579 35 1346 |
Built concurrently with the medieval house are the stewpond and the lovely domed dovecote - now picturesque garden features, once important sources of food. A walk down the valley leads to the quay, a busy river port in Victorian times. A museum here shows the vital role the Tamar River played in the local economy. The restored Tamar sailing barge, Shamrock, is moored here, and local arts and crafts are on sale in the Quay Gallery. From here it's an easy walk to the old estate corn mill, which is once again in working order. Admission:Garden and Mill: adult GBP5, child GBP2.50, family GBP7.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Action, animals, nature and magic |
Sidmouth Road Clyst St Mary Plymouth, Devon EX5 1DR United Kingdom +44 1395 23 3200 http://www.crealy.co.uk |
There are six realms here, each designed to maximise fun and excitement. The Action Realm concentrates on bumper boats, go-carts and the river challenge, while the Magic Realm delights children with its Sahara sand-play, Prince's Train and Magical Kingdom. Animals wait to meet their fans in the Animal Realm and the Natural Realm brings you tranquillity - perfect for parents who long for a few minutes' relaxation, with the Riverbank Trail, Prairie Train and lush meadows. Once you are rested, tackle the adventure and farming zones. Eaters will enjoy the Corn Exchange Picnic Barn and new Universe Restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
Blackberry path |
Cremyll Plymouth, Cornwall PL10 1HZ United Kingdom +44 1752 82 2236 (Tourist Information Centre) |
This is a lovely walk along the eastern side of Plymouth Sound. First catch the foot ferry from Stonehouse to Cremyll in Cornwall. Arriving at Cremyll, take the path which runs along the side of Plymouth Sound through Mount Edgcombe Country Park. The first site you will come to is the old battery, defending the entrance to the port of Devonport. Follow the path though the country park until you come to Fort Picklecombe, another of the Palmerston forts, now converted into flats. The path climbs up a small hill and in September this is a good area for blackberries. The path now continues into Kingsand. The return trip can either by bus or back the way you came. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Excellent photographic spot |
Dartmoor Plymouth, Devon PL20 United Kingdom +44 1822 890414 |
This is one of the most beautiful spots on Dartmoor, where the East and West Dart rivers meet. It's a popular picnic and photographic site, with many interesting birds, as well as superb scenery. If you go upstream from the road bridge you'll find the remains of a clapper bridge, which is reputed to be 700-800 years old. There are several clapper bridges on the moor, clapper being the old name for a heap of stones. Amongst the bracken on the hillside to the east, you'll find the famous Coffin Stone. This is a natural boulder where coffins were rested on the journey to funerals at Widecombe. They would carve a cross and the deceased initials into the stone while the bearers imbibed liquid refreshment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Grimes |
 Photo: Jennifer Swatton |
 Photo: LizRap |
 Photo: Keith Apps |
 Photo: Frances Foot |
 Photo: George Hawthorne |
 Photo: Keith Gough |
 Photo: Vaughan Brean |
 Photo: dave martin |
 Photo: Geoff Hicks |
|
Search for the Hound of the Baskervilles |
Parke, Bovey Tracey National Park Authority Plymouth, Devon TQ13 9JQ United Kingdom +44 1626 83 2093 http://www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk |
Dartmoor National Park is a place of outstanding natural beauty in all its many moods. Don't miss the mysterious prehistoric village of Grimspound, the scenic beauty of Dartmeet, legendary Childe's Tomb and the fascinating stannary town of Tavistock. Dartmoor can be cold, misty, wet and very windy. It is wise to go prepared. Strong boots, a good waterproof, map and rucksack are required. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Goss |
 Photo: Elmery Yap |
 Photo: Mark Hayday |
 Photo: Guido Camarda |
 Photo: Mervyn S |
 Photo: Denise Couturier |
 Photo: Paul Lincoln |
 Photo: Michal Stehlík |
 Photo: MachteldC |
 Photo: Joseph Hagg |
 Photo: David Glaves |
 Photo: silly wanderer |
 Photo: Cybil Ransom Joyce |
 Photo: Thom Glace |
 Photo: Andrew Bransbury |
 Photo: Sprigo |
 Photo: siusoon |
 Photo: David Sambells |
 Photo: Alexandre Teulle |
 Photo: Tim Walter |
 Photo: Ralph Rayner |
 Photo: Morag Johnston |
 Photo: kfcempress |
 Photo: Andy K |
|
Secluded moorland reservoir |
Nr Chagford, Plymouth, Devon TQ13 United Kingdom +44 1647 27 7587 http://www.swlakestrust.org.uk |
Nestling high on Dartmoor is this gem of a lake with way-marked walks. The lake is well stocked with brown trout and permits to fly fish, from 1st May-12th October, can be bought from the fishing lodge. There is provision for both bank and boat fishing. All fishermen must hold the correct EA Rod licence. Day ticket for trout fishing £8.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
In a monastery garden |
Buckland Monachorum Yelverton Plymouth, Devon PL20 7LQ United Kingdom +44 1822 85 4769 |
Set in a wooded valley on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, this beautiful garden was created by the late Lionel Fortescue in the grounds of the romantic ruins of a 16th century monastery. Terraced slopes and walled gardens are the setting for a fine collection of herbaceous perennials and ornamental shrubs. Climbers clothe the stone walls, while many herbaceous plants are laid out beneath, with great attention to colour and form. Keith Wiley, the present occupant, has maintained Fortescue's garden and expanded it outside the walls, where a flower meadow is being established. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Howes |
 Photo: Markles55 |
|
Fulfill your ambition - drive a train |
Bickington Plymouth, Devon TQ12 6JD United Kingdom +44 1626 82 1361 http://www.gorseblossom.com |
This miniature railway and woodland park has mysterious Dartmoor as its backdrop. Set in beautiful woodland, it must be one of the most scenic days out you can enjoy in Devon. You can take a spectacular journey through upspoilt wilderness on these miniature electric and steam trains. The track runs for nearly a mile and rides are unlimited. There is even the opportunity for you to fulfill the lifelong dreams of many -and drive a train yourself. There are many added attractions, including the Once Upon a Time Story Castle, the Dragon Slide, Commando Mouse's Assault Course and model railway displays. When you've had enough of the trains, you can make tracks to the Whistle Stop cafe for refreshments, or enjoy the Woodland Nature Trail.Admission adult £5, child/senior:£4, family (2+3):£18 Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Rich in local history |
Sparkwell Plympton Plymouth, Devon PL7 5BZ United Kingdom +44 1752 337 350 |
Essentially a Regency house, built in the 1790s, Hemerdon has always been a Woollcombe family home, dependent on the family law firm for its upkeep. The home is rich in paintings and local history. It is only open for for 30 days from 1 May-30 Sept, including May and August bank holidays, so contact administrator for details. Admission: Adult £5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Dormor |
 Cornwall's grandest house |
Lanhydrock Plymouth, Cornwall PL30 5AD United Kingdom +44 1208 7 3320 |
The grandest house in Cornwall, Lanhydrock dates back to 1620 when a square plan house was built. Of this house only the magnificent granite gatehouse survives as it was. Today it is mainly the fine 19th century house that visitors see, with 49 rooms on show, giving an extraordinary glimpse into the life of a Victorian country house, including the state rooms, the children's nursery wing and the fascinating warren of kitchens, larders and sculleries "below stairs". The house can be seen in the movies The Three Muskateers and Twelth Night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Five miles of scenery via narrow gauge |
St Thomas Road Newport Plymouth, Cornwall PL15 8DA United Kingdom +44 1566 77 5665 http://www.launcestonsr.co.uk/ |
This railway uses locomotives built in the 1880s and 90s by the Hunslett Engine Company of Leeds, and links Launceston with Newmills. Ride in open or closed carriages and drink in the marvellous views. In Launceston Station you can browse in the Transport Museum or Railway workshop or buy a gift or a book to take home. Nearby strolls include the ancient Priory ruins, the medieval Priors Bridge. Don't forget to visit the walled town of Launceston, and see where William the Conqueror's half brother built a Norman Castle. Cream teas and other refreshments are available at the Railway Buffet. Disabled visitors can ride on the trains but there is no toilet which will accommodate wheelchairs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Enchanting, enchanted time capsule |
Pentewan St Austell Plymouth, Cornwall PL26 6EN United Kingdom +44 1726 84 5100 http://www.heligan.com |
The site of the largest garden restoration in Europe, these enchanted and enchanting gardens cover some 80 acres of glorious pleasure grounds plus a superb complex of walled gardens and a large productive vegetable garden, all being returned to their former glory as a working museum of 19th century horticulture. At the end of the 19th century the Tremayne family's thousand acres gardens were flourishing, but only a few years later brambles and ivy were already turning them into the Cornish equivalent of Sleeping Beauty's gardens. The award-winning garden restoration is already internationally acclaimed, and a must-see place for every visitor to Cornwall who has at least half a day to spare. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Dolan |
 Photo: Conny Liegl |
 Photo: Clare Sewell |
 Photo: Ironmonger |
 Photo: Mark Liebenberg |
 Photo: Christopher Richardson |
 Photo: banksider |
 Photo: Roger Meggs |
 Photo: garth wyles |
 Photo: steph_govier22 |
 Photo: Jeff Walker |
 Photo: Bladewood |
 Photo: Mary Gerard |
 Photo: G. Hicks |
 Photo: Veronique |
 Photo: Paul Jervis |
 Photo: Stephen King |
 Photo: matstace |
 Photo: Andy Laidlaw |
 Photo: Morgan Lewis |
 Photo: Nicole H |
 Photo: C & M Hawkett |
|
Secluded cove |
Mothercombe Plymouth, Devon PL8 ILB United Kingdom +44 1752 830253 |
Mothecombe is a private beach owned by the Fleet Estate, open on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday only. The beach has good clean sand and is safe for swimming. At either side of the beach there are rocks with rock pools inhabited by all manner of sea creatures. Between April and the end of September there is no parking on the road but the Fleet Estate provide a field for parking. Ice creams can be bought from a small shop in the parking area, but there are no other facilities in the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
|
16th century splendour |
Cremyl Plymouth, Cornwall PL10 1HZ United Kingdom +44 1752 82 2236 |
This magnificent house, set in an 800 acre country park, was finished in 1553 and restored by the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe by 1964. The Tudor house has warm red stone walls and is beautifully furnished with family possessions, including paintings by Sir Joshua Reynolds, 16th century tapestries and 18th century Plymouth and Chinese porcelain. Beside the house is the Earl's Garden, created in the 18th century, containing colourful flowers and some very rare trees, including a 400 year old lime. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julian Weyer |
 Photo: Stephen Sweet |
 Photo: daisybush |
|
Seven miles by steam |
Queen's Park Station Plymouth, Devon TQ4 6AF United Kingdom +44 1803 55 3760 |
Go back through history with a ride on this exciting steam railway through seven miles of delightful Devon countryside. You'll see the Torbay coast and the beautiful wooded slopes of the River Dart estuary. The railway also runs special trains, including "Thomas the Tank Engine" and the Santa Express. A special boat-link ticket lets you travel from Paignton to Kingswear, then take the passenger ferry to historical Dartmouth with its Naval College and castle. Here you can enjoy an hour cruising around the harbor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nick Meredith |
 Photo: Nick Meredith |
 Photo: Chris Rimmer |
 Photo: Simon Cooke |
|
Seven miles of scenery |
Plympton Plymouth, Devon PL7 United Kingdom +44 1752 266030 (Tourist Information Centre) |
The transformation of the old Plymouth to Launceston line into a cycle path and walkway has resurrected this part of this beautiful old railway line, making it a tranquil place for either walking or cycling. The path starts at Laira Bridge and follows the estuary of the Plym past Saltram House. The path dives under the main road at Marsh Mills and continues up the River Plym alongside the old Cann canal, which was built to transport stone from Cann quarry at Plym Bridge. The track quickly enters Plym Bridge Woods and is surrounded by woodland for most of the way to Clearbrook. It's a very convenient path as access can be gained at all the following places; Laira Bridge, Marsh Mills, Coypool, Plym Bridge, Bickleigh, Shaugh Prior, Hoo Meavy and Clearbrook. Much of the cycle way runs through National Trust land. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: MyNameIsClare |
 Photo: MyNameIsClare |
|
Exploring Plymouth's heritage by water |
8 Anderton Rise Millbrook Plymouth, Cornwall PL10 1DA United Kingdom +44 1752 82 2797 |
The following cruises leave from Phoenix Wharf at regular times from May to October, depending on tide and weather: Calstock (4 hours), River Yealm (2 hours) and Devonport Dockyard (1 hour). The dockyard cruise leaves every 30 minutes from 10.45am onwards, and you'll get a good view of the historic Plymouth Hoe and the largest naval dockyard in Europe. Every afternoon a boat leaves for the Yealm estuary. Cruise though Plymouth Sound, enjoying views of Plymouth and beyond, marvel at the cliffs and seabirds on the Mew Stone and find peace in the picturesque Yealm estuary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Johnston |
|
Ancient clapper bridge |
Postbridge, Plymouth, Devon PL20 6TH United Kingdom +44 1822 880201 |
Since the 13th century there has been a unique bridge, made out of slabs of granite, over the East Dart at Postbridge. This type of bridge construction is peculiar to Dartmoor. There are others on the moor but the one at Postbridge is the most accessible, and on a sunny day it is well worth a visit. Across the road the local post office sells some of the best ice creams around, just right for refreshing weary walkers. You can also get a well-earned pint just up the road in the East Dart Hotel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: DMBHolidays.com |
|
History on foot |
Saltash Tourist Information Point Guildhall Plymouth, Cornwall PL12 6J United Kingdom +44 1752 84 4846 |
Although enemy bombers destroyed much of the ancient town of Saltash during the Second World War, much still remains, hidden from the passers-by. This trail has been devised to introduce visitors to some of its long history. The town was once called "Essa", from the Celtic word for water. It is much more sheltered than Plymouth, and so the borough was important long before its more famous neighbour. Saltash was granted its first charter between 1216 and 1245. The mosaics on the small bridge above the tunnel slip road were designed by local schoolchildren and members of the community centre and show the history and heritage of Saltash and Cornwall. Visit the local Tourist Information Centre for more details of the Trail. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrzej Szymański |
|
George II mansion |
Plympton Plymouth, Devon PL7 1UH United Kingdom +44 1752 33 3500 http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk |
A remarkable George II mansion whose landscaped park overlooks the Plym estuary, Robert Adam worked here on two occasions to create the magnificent state rooms. There are gorgeous Adam ceilings throughout, and three rooms have exquisite hand painted Chinese wallpaper. The original contents also include Chippendale furniture, Wedgwood ceramics and many portraits by Sir Joshua Reynolds and Angelica Kaufman. A very popular feature is the Great Kitchen, where authentic 18th century banquets are sometimes prepared. Saltram is often seen on film and TV and was Norland Park in the film Sense & Sensibility. A spectacular Jazz Picnic is held here every summer. Admission: adult £6, child £3. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Goddard |
 Photo: Nick King |
 Photo: Markles55 |
|
Six hundred and thirty miles of scenic joy |
Sarah Vincent, Administrator 25 Clobells Plymouth, Devon TQ10 9JW United Kingdom +44 1364 7 3859 http://www.swcp.org.uk/ |
At 630 miles long this is Britain's longest National Trail and much of it is in easy reach of Plymouth. One of the joys of the path is its vast variety. The path along the edge of the South Hams is composed of metamorphic rock, giving sharp-topped ridges that run down to the sea like the backs of giant dormant dinosaurs. It's wonderful in late summer, when the heather is purple and the early wild blackberries provide welcome refreshment. The coastal footpath originated centuries ago, when the coastguards regularly patrolled the south coast, on the lookout for smugglers. They had to be able to see into every cove, so the path hugs the coastline very closely. An inner city part of the coastal footpath is the Waterfront Walkway through Plymouth. As well as those walking simply to enjoy one of the finest areas of coastal scenery in Europe, there is much to excite those interested in geology, botany, archeology, and ornithology. Look out for pilchard cellars, lime kilns, rare flowers and even peregrine falcons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Graham Richardson |
 Photo: Adam Wise |
 Photo: Leanne Bailey |
|
Breeding and releasing otters |
North Petherwin Plymouth, Cornwall PL15 8LW United Kingdom +44 1566 78 5646 |
Set in beautiful surroundings, this is an interesting and rewarding place to visit. The otters play happily in large natural enclosures, and can also be seen inside their breeding holts or dens. Visitors can see them fed at noon and 3p. There is an illustrated nature trail, as well as two lakes with many waterfowl, which are fed at 2.30pm. Splendid peacocks and Golden Pheasants, wallabies, Fallow and Muntjac Deer all roam freely. The sanctuary is famous for being the only place in the Southwest breeding and releasing otters to save them from extinction in lowland England. They have bred over 100 otters and released them into the wild, where they and their offspring are breeding well. The centre is also running a Dormouse Conservation Project to help conserve these fascinating little animals. There are also refreshments, a picnic area, Visitor Centre, a gift shop and a free car park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sue Houghton |
 Photo: samantha cornes |
 Photo: Paul Gibbons |
|
Beer, glorious beer |
Teign Road Osborne Park Plymouth, Devon TQ12 4AA United Kingdom +44 1626 334734 |
A hundred years ago there were thousands of malthouses in the UK. Now only a few remain and this one is the only traditional working malthouse open to the public. Malt is an ingredient in many things we consume every day, from Mars bars to drinks, biscuits and cereal. More importantly for many, it is the main raw ingredient in beer making. Here you can watch the brewing process, from barley to beer, using original Victorian machinery. Guided tours take about an hour, but you should allow for two hours in the Pay and Display car park. The tours, which include a sample of ale, finish at the Teignworthy Brewery, which brews over 7,200 pints of real ale each week from malt, hops, yeast and local Dartmoor water. There are many varieties of speciality bottles beers available in the shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Knitted breakfasts and a 10 tonne rhino |
Plymouth Discovery Centre Crabtree Plymouth, Devon PL3 6RN United Kingdom +44 1752 26 6030 |
One of the best ways to see Plymouth's waterfront area is on foot. The City council have laid out a way-marked path from Admirals Hard in the west to Jennycliff in the east, which is an inner city part of the South West Coastal Path. The distance of the walk is 10 miles (14 km) and follows the coastline as closely as possible. Along the route you will meet famous characters from history, visit parts of Plymouth not usually visited by tourists and find special pubs and cafes. The city council has produced a guidebook and also audiotapes, in English, French and German, to help you enjoy your walk. They explain the features you'll see on the way, like a knitted full English breakfast and a lump of gold bullion. These are available from Plymouth Tourist Information Centre. Watch out for the 10 tonne rhino... Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: suey_j |
 Photo: Orange Octopus |
 Photo: Rob Taylor |