South West life
How would your perfect day off play out? Maybe you’d hit the surf, go sailing or spend the day sunbathing on a stunning golden beach with friends. Perhaps you’d hike across gloriously rolling hills, stop off in a country pub for lunch and maybe try your luck with a spot of fishing.
If you’re an urbanite at heart you might prefer superb city centre shopping, a gallery, a top restaurant and a lively waterside bar.
You’ll find all of this, plus great places to live and a selection of good schools and colleges and much more in the South West. It’s why it’s such a desirable place to live and work.
With the wild natural backdrop of Dartmoor to the north of the city, the sea and deep harbour of Plymouth Sound to the south, and the rivers Plym and Tamar to the east and west, there really is no other city like Plymouth.
The city is on the South West Coast Path, and offers five miles of beaches within 25 miles. It is also home to Plymouth Hoe and one of the finest art deco lidos in England. The world famous Smeaton’s Tower which once stood on the Eddystone Reef 10 miles out to sea now dominates the skyline. The Hoe is a natural auditorium and has hosted many events including the British Firework Championships, the America’s Cup, the Olympic Torch procession, Plymouth Half Marathon, the FastNet and MTV Crashes Plymouth.
Superb Shopping
Plymouth has a modern and largely pedestrianised shopping centre that includes national brands and independent retailers. Several street markets are held throughout the year including continental and Christmas markets.
A rich heritage
In contrast, the historic harbour area boasts the largest concentration of cobbled streets in England with over 100 listed buildings and a good mix of specialist shops, art galleries, cafés and restaurants. This historic area of the city has the Mayflower Steps, departure point of the Pilgrims to America. The Mayflower 400 celebrations are being held throughout 2020 and expected to attract global attention.
Great sporting facilities
Plymouth Life Centre’s aquatic facilities are the largest of their kind in southern England outside of the Olympic Village and were used by a number of international swimming and diving teams in preparation for London 2012.
Keep up with football at Plymouth Argyle’s stadium Home Park or follow professional basketball team Plymouth Raiders at Plymouth Pavilions. If you’re a fan of Rugby then Plymouth Albion play their home games at the local Brickfields Stadium or you can take a short drive to Exeter’s Sandy Park to watch Exeter Chiefs.
Affordable housing
House prices are around a third lower than the national average, with a wide choice from city centre apartments to waterside homes and rural retreats, as well as options for families and first-time buyers.
Unbeatable quality of life
Plymouth is surrounded by rolling hills, winding country lanes, picturesque villages and beaches. Perfect for a gentle walk or a serious hike. The idyllic landscape is also home to a selection of outstanding golf courses.
