Situated in the county of Devon in the South West of England, Plymouth sits at the mouths of the Twin Rivers of Plym and Tamar. Plymouth is associated with its rich maritime past, dominated by the massive Royal Navy base in the United Kingdom and indeed in all of Western Europe, based on the natural harbor at Plymouth Sound.

It goes without saying that naval history is a very large part of the history of Plymouth, with the Devenport Royal Dockyard and the Barbican, the point from which the Pilgrim Fathers first set of to make a new life in America. It is not by coincidence that Plymouth has earned the title of the “Waterfront City.” Some famous English seafarers who have visited the city in the past include the famous captains Cook, Darwin and Drake.

Visitors in more modern times can enjoy the contrast of the old and new that typifies the city. To add to its bustling atmosphere, Plymouth is temporary home to thirty thousand students every year who attend the city’s university, the fourth largest in all of the United Kingdom. With all these young people added to the many members of the Navy and sailors from around the World who pass through the city every year, you can understand that there is much to do in Plymouth. The city center is now almost totally pedestrianized, and her wide streets are lined with gardens and water features. Many visitors take a seat at a table in one of the many pavement cafes and watch the crowds throng by. The city centre offers all at that is modern and pleasant in shopping and entertainment opportunities. Those looking for something with a feeling for history can take a stroll towards the Barbican area of the city. They will feel the history as they stroll along the narrow cobbled streets and study the art of local artists and craftsmen. Needless to say there is the widest choice of restaurants available, from Indian to Asian, and even traditional British fare.

Plymouth Hoe is not to be missed, especially the spot where Francis Drake was reputed to have played bowls as the Spanish Armada approached. Another spot worth checking out is Smeaton’s Tower and Lighthouse offering the most fabulous views of Plymouth Sound.

For those modern day explorers who prefer dry land, it is possible to rent a car and take a tour around Devon and Cornwall. There is much to do and see, and some of the best coast line in all of the UK is at your beck and call. Old English pubs and restaurants abound in these two counties and you will be assured a warm welcome.

Renting a car can be an economical way to travel around Plymouth and the region. There are several pick up areas around the city with discounts on offer for rentals of three days and over. Car Hire in Plymouth comes as a ‘fully inclusive’ package which includes unlimited mileage, collision damage waiver, passenger indemnity insurance and cover for third party, fire and theft - and usually insurance excess. To rent a car anywhere in the United Kingdom, you must show a full driver's licence and a credit card in the driver’s name. Cars are usually rented to customers between the ages of 21 to 70 years. Hiring a car is a great idea if you want to use Plymouth as your base for a three day minimum travel experience around the region.