Plymouth

Ask three people what comes to mind about Plymouth and you will likely get three very different answers! Literally a city reborn after the devastation of World War 11. As a naval port it has been the target of invasion over the centuries. Now it is a thriving city lying on the River Tamar reaching into Plymouth Sound where naval, commercial and domestic shipping rub along side by side. Just a short hop across the ferry or through the Saltash Tunnel and Cornwall beckons.

Historians will reference Sir Francis Drake citing him as the founder of Plymouth as he departed for his round the world (as it was then) trips and defeating the Spanish Armada - was he really playing bowls on The Hoe as they came into view?

And, of course, it’s a busy port whisking enthusiastic travellers to numerous European holiday destinations. A transient business but one that puts the city on the map for many a traveller.

Like all cities it has expanded massively as the commercial, retail, educational, sporting and medical services flourish (not forgetting the regional theatre that often brings national stars on the first leg of a tour). So too has the housing market with many 20 th century impressive houses compatible with the demand of a successful area. For those wishing to live a little further out of the City it’s an easy

drive to the twin waterside villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo – a secluded inlet of the River Yealm favoured with sailors. The adventurous may prefer the southern fringes of the Dartmoor National Park – again just a few miles north.

Fortunately the bombs of the forties didn’t destroy all the history and there are many Victorian and Edwardian homes that survived, always a favourite with growing families looking for a little more space. These sit comfortably with the 1930s and post war houses that inevitably spread on the outlying hills, often commanding great views to the waterside.

The waterfront itself is no longer a solely commercial area. The development of the Royal William Yard to exclusive apartments brings a new dimension to the buildings and encouragement for the restaurants, bars and shops in The Barbican – a favoured tourist destination with visitors and residents alike – especially the sailors using the local marinas.

So many places in Devon offer an eclectic environmental mix of services and amenities for all ages and requirements both business and social but Plymouth perhaps exceeds them all – a truly modern city in which to live and embrace: “It’s all about coming home.”

Property Section

16 Custom House Lane, Plymouth: Waterside town house with spectacular marine views:

Estate Agent: Savills

Penlee. Plymouth: Impressive family residence built in 1923 with fantastic views across the city:

Estate Agent: EXP UK

Boreston Quays, Plymouth: Exclusive waterfront development: Contemporary living in an historic setting.

Estate Agent: Lang Town & Country

Goodameavy Barton, Roborough, Plymouth: 16 th century listed barn with potential, close to open moorland and easy access to Plymouth.

Estate Agent: Mansbridge Balmont

12 Riverdale Road East, Newton Ferrers. A short drive to Plymouth and looking at the River Yealm and a character cottage perfect for keen sailors.

Estate Agent: Luscombe Maye