The Barbican is a historic waterfront area of Plymouth, England, located in the south-west of the country. It is a vibrant cultural center, with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. From its architecture to its events, restaurants and things to do, there is something for everyone at the Barbican.
History
The Barbican has a long and varied history, with evidence of human settlement in the area dating back to the Iron Age. It was the site of a Roman fort and was later developed as a port in the 16th century. In the 18th century, the Barbican became a bustling hub of maritime trade and was home to many of Plymouth’s merchants.
Attractions
The Barbican is a great place to explore for visitors to Plymouth. It is home to a number of attractions, including:
- The Mayflower Steps – the traditional departure point of the Mayflower, the ship that carried the Pilgrims to America in 1620
- Smeaton’s Tower – an 18th century lighthouse, now a museum
- The National Marine Aquarium – the UK’s largest aquarium, with a variety of marine life
- The Elizabethan House – a restored 16th century house, with a collection of period furniture
- The Plymouth Gin Distillery – the oldest working distillery in England, with tours and tastings
- The Barbican Theatre – a theatre and cinema, hosting a range of performances and events
Things to Do
The Barbican is a great place to visit for those looking for things to do. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including:
- Exploring the waterfront – take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the views of Plymouth Sound
- Visiting the museums – explore the many museums in the area, including Smeaton’s Tower and the National Marine Aquarium
- Shopping – browse the many shops, cafes and restaurants in the area
- Attending events – the Barbican is home to a range of events, from live music to theatre performances
- Exploring the architecture – admire the historic buildings and monuments in the area, such as the Mayflower Steps
Tours
The Barbican is a great place to explore for those looking for guided tours. There are a number of tour operators in the area offering a range of tours, from walking tours to boat trips.
Admission
Many of the attractions in the Barbican are free to enter, however some of the museums and other attractions may require an admission fee.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes – the Barbican is a great place to explore, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing!
- Bring a camera – the Barbican is a great place to take photos, so make sure you bring a camera to capture all the sights.
- Check opening times – some of the attractions in the Barbican may have limited opening times, so make sure you check before you go.
- Check the weather – Plymouth can be unpredictable when it comes to the weather, so make sure you check the forecast before you go.
Practical Information
The Barbican is located in the centre of Plymouth, in the south-west of England. The nearest train station is Plymouth Station, which is a short walk away from the Barbican. There are also plenty of buses and taxis available in the area. Parking is available in the Barbican, however it is limited and can be expensive.
