Plymouth Travel Guide

Plymouth is a city located in Devon, South West England between the River Tamar and the River Plym. Although it has an interesting and long history, it was heavily bombed during World War 2 and a large amount of buildings were wiped out. The area was rebuilt soon after, but a many areas were built quickly, giving the city a grey colour and unattractive style throughout. The early part of the 20th century has seen a large regeneration process going on in Plymouth, turning it into one of the better coastal cities in the south.

The local surroundings work well for Plymouth as it has arguably the most impressive natural ports in the world and the green hills of Dartmoor on the other side. Looking over the coast is the Hoe, a well maintained, pretty piece of land, ideal for relaxing on a summer day. From the ground, it is easy to see the water as well as two hills, one on each side, but for a view over the whole city, Smeaton’s tower is well worth a climb. This unique tower is a red and white striped lighthouse, which was originally constructed on a nearby coast, but was relocated to the Hoe and named after its creator. You can climb the spiral steps for a small price to see a fantastic view.

Further east along the coast lies the Barbican, a historical part of the city with interesting buildings, a harbour and the Mayflower steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers left England from to sail to the United States. The amazing National Marine Aquarium is across a small bridge from the steps, offering a variety of sea life on show in great sized tanks.

Further into the city, away from the coast, the majority of buildings are shops. This part of the city is being redeveloped, changing it from a grey, boring area to a modern, attractive part of the city. A formerly run down area – Drakes Circus is now a large shopping mall with a strange design. Lying across the road from a bombed church, its ruins left as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the city during the war.

Whilst Plymouth may not seem like a historical city in parts, there are so many interesting stories surrounding almost every part of the city. There is a distinct difference between the coastal part and the centre, and whether used as a hub for a holiday through Dartmoor, or as a city break, Plymouth is an interesting, improving and friendly city.

Oxford City Guide

Situated 50 miles (80km) to the west of London, Oxford is a historical city and county town of Oxfordshire in South East England. It is the oldest University City in the country and together with Cambridge, it represents Oxbridge – the elite English academic establishment.

A haven of tradition and high class history, Oxford’s buildings demonstrate an example of every British architectural period since the arrival of the Saxons. Known as the “city of dreaming spires” due to the harmonious architecture of the university buildings, it has become one of the most historically interesting cities in the country.

Oxford sits on the rivers Cherwell and Thames, which meet south of the city centre and has a population of just under 165,000. It can, however fill up in and around tourist season, especially around the landmarks.

The majority of Oxford’s attractions are centred around the University. The amazing Bodleian Library is the main research libraries and is one of the oldest libraries in Europe. Opened in 1602, it is second in size to London’s British Library. The Radcliffe Camera, based in Radcliffe Square is a round, beautifully designed building which functions as a reading room for students.

A small, interesting bridge for students of Hertford College – Hertford Bridge has become popularly known as the “Bridge of Sighs”.

For a full insight into the city and to find some hidden gems, it may be a good idea to use a tour guide, or the city’s tour bus service. The busses pull up outside the main train station and go throughout Oxford’s interesting and historical streets. By using that service, you will be able to find out about the many traditions around the Colleges. It is also worth going up the Carfax tower in the city centre, for a good view. From there you will see almost all of Oxford including churches, colleges and the shopping area.

Oxford is easily accessible by train, bus and car. The nearest airports are Birmingham and the London airports. The main train station is a short walk from the city centre, but the bus service is good.

This beautiful, interesting and historical town feels like a huge open air museum. There is something to see on almost every corner and the buildings are so well taken care of. The only downfall is that it isn’t particularly diverse in terms of attractions. Everything is centred around the university, and there is not a lot else to see. There is a nice atmosphere around the area, but is a student city and once you have visited a few of the colleges, they can blend into one. It is however well worth a trip as it is unlike any other city in the world.