Plymouth Hopes Museum Award Will Boost Tourism

Plymouth, a naval city in Devon, is aiming to attract more tourists following its museum, The Box, being awarded the prestigious Art Fund museum of the year award. Tourist officials hope this recognition will encourage visitors, often focused on reaching nearby Cornwall and Devon beaches, to stop and explore Plymouth's historical offerings.

The Box, a contemporary building that opened in 2020 after a significant renovation of the former Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, showcases historic exhibits related to the port, local mining, and Bronze Age artifacts. Among its notable displays is a woolly mammoth skeleton named Mildred, submarine periscopes, model ships, and exhibits detailing the lives of port workers. The museum also features a film narrated by Dawn French about the city and a painting by Jules Girardet depicting onlookers viewing Napoleon on HMS Bellerophon in Plymouth Sound in 1815.

Beyond the museum, Plymouth offers significant historical sites and scenic views. Plymouth Sound, a harbor for two centuries, can be explored via boat tours that pass Drake's Island and the Devonport naval base. Plymouth Hoe provides panoramic views of the Channel and features a statue of Sir Francis Drake, who famously sailed from the city before defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588. The Hoe is also home to Smeaton's Tower, a Victorian lighthouse, and the restored 1930s Tinside Lido.

The Barbican neighborhood, which largely survived World War II bombing that devastated much of Plymouth, retains its narrow, cobbled streets. This area features numerous pubs and eateries, including the Rockfish restaurant known for its seafood. The Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked for the New World in 1620, are also located in the Barbican, as is the National Marine Aquarium.

Additionally, visitors might discover life-sized sculptures inspired by the works of local artist Beryl Cook. The travel writer York Membery described Plymouth as a vibrant location where the sea and city life are closely integrated, deeming it a worthwhile destination.