Plymouth, UK – Home to Princess Yachts

The port city of Plymouth is located on the Southwestern coast of England. Not only is it home to Princess Yachts, but a city with rich history and multiple landmarks. While the city is one of over 50 “Plymouths” around the world, its unique geographic location has attracted settlers and visitors alike dating back to the Bronze Age, when the city held key naval and trade importance for the Devon County. Having been partially destroyed during World War II, the city center was rebuilt shortly after the war and expanded to include outlying suburbs.

The easiest and possibly most enjoyable way to get to the city from overseas is a flight into London- Heathrow, express train to Paddington station, and switch to a train that’ll bring you straight to Plymouth. You can also opt to rent a vehicle and drive down to Plymouth, but taking the train is highly recommended. Just don’t forget to book your train tickets in advance.

The journey to get to Plymouth is something to cherish. There’s nothing quite like seeing the rolling hills of the peaceful British countryside pass by your window.

Places to Visit in Plymouth

1.) Plymouth Gin Distillery

Situated in the Black Friar’s building which dates to the early 1400s. It’s the oldest working gin distillery in England. Fun fact, Plymouth Gin was named in the first recorded dry martini recipe in 1904.

2.) National Marine Aquarium (NMA)

The largest aquarium in the UK and the first in the UK to be set up as a charity dedicated to education and conservation. Today the NMA is home of the Ocean Conservation Trust, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the Ocean.

3.) Smeaton’s Tower

Located in Hoe Park this iconic lighthouse was built in 1759 and was originally used to mark the Eddystone Reef. The Hoe Promenade overlooks the natural harbor of Plymouth and is the site where Sir Francis Drake is said to have played a game of bowls before defeating the Spanish Armada.

4.) The Barbican & Sutton Harbor

The Barbican and Sutton harbor are the heart of the city’s heritage. It’s one of the finest deep-water harbors in the country. Here on cobbled streets you’ll find – shops, cafes, and waterfront restaurants.

5.) Royal William Yard

What use to be former Grade 1 Royal Navy victualling buildings, are now alive with restaurants, bars and shops.

Story of Princess Yachts

Not only is the city known for historical landmarks, but Plymouth is also home to Princess Yachts, one of the largest builders of luxury yachts in the world. With over 3,000 employees and six sites covering over 1.1 million square feet across the city, Princess Yachts is the second largest employer in Plymouth after the Royal Navy.

The history of Princess Yachts ties in closely with the naval history of Plymouth, in fact, the South Yard where the X-Class “Superfly” yachts are built, is a former naval yard that date’s back to 1689. The site is home to several protected historic buildings including – Kings Hill Gazebo, built in 1822 to commemorate a visit by King George III, No. 1 Covered Slip, one of only 3 remaining covered slips in the UK, and the Ropery, which dates to 1766.

Unlike other production boat yards that rely heavily on machinery, automation, and external suppliers, 80% of every Princess yacht is built in-house by carpenters, mechanics, and skilled workers. This is reflected in the perfection of the smallest details on the biggest of Princess boats. Currently, Princess Yachts has a range of 20 yachts from 35ft. to 95ft. From classic flybridge models, to ground-breaking superyachts, each with their own unique features while representing the level of finish true to a Princess.

Tips for visiting Plymouth

– A train ride through the English countryside is a must
-Book a tour for the Plymouth Gin Distillery, you won’t regret it
-Wear a pair of comfortable shoes to explore the cobbled streets of the Barbican