10 facts about Plymouth you didn't know

Uncover Plymouth's Hidden Treasures: 10 Astonishing Facts You Never Knew About Britain's Ocean City

Hold onto your hats, history buffs and travel enthusiasts! We're about to take you on a wild ride through the hidden gems of Plymouth, Britain's Ocean City. This coastal gem in southwest England isn't just about the Mayflower and seafaring tales - oh no, it's got secrets that'll make your jaw drop faster than you can say "Rule, Britannia!"

Nestled on the stunning South Devon coast, Plymouth is a city that seamlessly blends its rich maritime history with a vibrant modern vibe. From its bustling harbor to its charming Elizabethan streets, this place is a treasure trove of surprises. But forget what you think you know about Plymouth - we're about to blow your mind with some facts that'll make you see this city in a whole new light.

Did you know, for instance, that Plymouth is home to the oldest working gin distillery in England? Or that it boasts the largest naval base in Western Europe? How about the fact that it was the birthplace of the world's first single-handed circumnavigation of the globe? Buckle up, folks - we're just getting started! Let's dive into ten mind-boggling facts about Plymouth that'll have you booking your tickets faster than you can say "fish and chips"!

1. The Gin-credible Legacy

Alright, gin lovers, this one's for you! What if we told you that Plymouth isn't just a city, but a flavor of gin? That's right - Plymouth Gin has been distilled in the historic Blackfriars Distillery since 1793, making it the oldest working gin distillery in England. But here's the kicker - it's the only gin in the world with a Protected Geographical Indication from the European Union. That means genuine Plymouth Gin can only be produced in Plymouth. Talk about exclusive! So next time you're sipping on a G&T, raise a glass to this city's spirited legacy. Cheers to that!

2. The Underwater Wonder

Hold your breath for this one - Plymouth is home to the National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK. But that's not all, folks. This aquatic wonderland houses the deepest tank in the UK, plunging to a whopping 10.5 meters! Imagine standing face-to-face with sand tiger sharks, rays, and hundreds of other species in this underwater metropolis. The best part? The aquarium isn't just about gawking at fish - it's a hub for marine conservation and education. So you can feel good about your visit while being totally mesmerized. Who knew learning could be this jaw-droppingly awesome?

3. The Globe-Trotting Pioneer

Calling all adventure seekers! Did you know that Plymouth was the starting point for the first-ever single-handed circumnavigation of the globe? In 1966, Sir Francis Chichester set sail from Plymouth in his yacht Gipsy Moth IV, returning 226 days later after a solo voyage around the world. Talk about a solo trip of epic proportions! This daring feat put Plymouth on the map as a launchpad for extraordinary journeys. So next time you're feeling adventurous, remember - you're standing on the same ground where one of the greatest sailing adventures in history began. Who knows, maybe you'll be inspired to chart your own course!

4. The Underwater Time Capsule

Brace yourselves, history buffs - we're about to dive deep into Plymouth's past. Literally. Beneath the waters of Plymouth Sound lies a submerged prehistoric forest, dating back a mind-boggling 8,000 years! This underwater wonderland was discovered in 2012 and is believed to be part of an ancient landmass that once connected Britain to continental Europe. Imagine walking through a forest where mammoths once roamed! While you can't exactly stroll through it now (unless you've got gills), knowing it's there adds a whole new dimension to Plymouth's already rich history. It's like having your own Atlantis right on your doorstep!

5. The Royal Citadel's Secret

Get ready for a plot twist that'll make your head spin! The Royal Citadel, a 17th-century fortress overlooking Plymouth Sound, has a dark secret. Its guns aren't just pointed out to sea to defend against invaders - they're also aimed at the city itself! Why, you ask? Well, after the English Civil War, Plymouth was a bit of a rebel, supporting the Parliamentarians against the Crown. When the monarchy was restored, they built the Citadel not just for defense, but as a not-so-subtle reminder to the locals about who's boss. Talk about keeping your friends close and your enemies closer! It's like having your own Game of Thrones set right in the heart of the city.

6. The Pilgrim's Hidden Steps

Hold onto your hats, folks - we're about to debunk a major tourist myth! You know those famous Mayflower Steps where the Pilgrims supposedly set sail for the New World? Well, here's a shocker - they're not the real deal! The actual steps are believed to be hidden beneath the ladies' loo in the nearby Admiral MacBride pub. Yes, you read that right - one of the most significant spots in American history is under a British pub bathroom! The steps you see today are actually a commemorative monument built in the 1930s. So next time you're in Plymouth, raise a pint at the Admiral MacBride - you might be closer to history than you think!

7. The Unsung War Hero

Prepare to have your mind blown by a tale of wartime ingenuity! During World War II, Plymouth was heavily bombed, but the city had an ace up its sleeve - a secret underground city! A network of tunnels and bunkers was built beneath the streets, complete with a telephone exchange, a hospital, and even a command center. This subterranean world played a crucial role in coordinating the D-Day landings. Today, parts of this hidden city are open for tours, giving you a chance to step back in time and experience Plymouth's wartime resilience firsthand. It's like your very own real-life Call of Duty map!

8. The Lighthouse that Moved

Get ready for a lighthouse tale that'll light up your day! Smeaton's Tower, the iconic red and white striped lighthouse on Plymouth Hoe, wasn't always there. In fact, it used to stand 14 miles out at sea on the treacherous Eddystone Rocks. When it was decommissioned in 1877, the top two-thirds of the tower were dismantled, moved stone by stone, and rebuilt on the Hoe. Talk about an extreme home makeover! Today, you can climb to the top for breathtaking views of Plymouth Sound. It's like getting two lighthouses for the price of one - the original location and its current home. Now that's what we call a bright idea!

9. The Birthplace of the Pasty... Maybe!

Hold onto your taste buds, foodies - we're about to stir up some culinary controversy! While Cornwall is famous for its pasties, Plymouth might just have a claim to this delicious pastry's origins. An ancient recipe discovered in Plymouth suggests that the city might be the true birthplace of the Cornish pasty. The recipe, dating back to 1510, was found hidden in some old city accounts. It describes a dish remarkably similar to the modern-day pasty. So next time you bite into one of these savory treats, remember - you might be tasting a piece of Plymouth history! It's like solving a delicious historical mystery with every bite.

10. The Drake's Drum Legend

Get ready for a ghostly tale that'll send shivers down your spine! Sir Francis Drake, the famous Plymouth-based explorer, is said to have a magical drum. Legend has it that if England is ever in danger, the drum will beat of its own accord to summon Drake back from the dead to defend the country. The drum, kept in Buckland Abbey near Plymouth, is said to have been heard during major conflicts like World War I and II. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you can't deny the goosebump factor of this story. It's like having your own supernatural early warning system right here in Plymouth!

And there you have it, folks - ten mind-blowing facts about Plymouth that'll make you see this seaside city in a whole new light. From gin-soaked history to underwater forests, from hidden war bunkers to ghostly drums, Plymouth is bursting with secrets just waiting to be discovered. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the hidden wonders of Britain's Ocean City. Trust us, Plymouth is about to become your new favorite destination. Don't miss out on the chance to uncover these secrets for yourself - your next great adventure awaits in Plymouth!