Plymouth - Gateway to the South West

Most people know that Plymouth is just a short drive from Dartmoor with all its recreational possibilities: climbing its granite tors, walking around the many lakes, visiting the ancient sites of prehistoric settlement, enjoying the beautiful waterfalls that adorn its valleys or simply exploring 365 square miles of the most famous wilderness in England. But Dartmoor is only one of three areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) that surround Plymouth…

How about heading East along the A379 to take a walk along the coastal path? This is in the South Hams area of outstanding natural beauty, and the pictures of Burgh Island and Thurlestone Rock to the right show just how beautiful it is. The harbour inlet that includes Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo is another beauty spot, with the Ship as Noss Mayo’s leading place for lunch.

Or head North West and try the third area of outstanding natural beauty that adjoins Plymouth, the Tamar valley. Or venture into Cornwall to visit lovely Looe or make the trip to the Eden Project passing the massive Trago Mills retail complex on the way.

These are just a few ideas. There is much much more to see and do using Plymouth as your gateway to the South West.