A good place to begin your exploration of this maritime city would be Plymouth Hoe, a scenic promenade offering panoramic views of the sound. Climb the iconic lighthouse known as Smeaton’s Tower for a perspective on the scenery from above before exploring the nearby Royal Citadel, a 17th-century fortress. A pleasant stroll takes you to the Barbican district, Plymouth’s historic quarter, where you’ll find charming shops, art galleries and seafood restaurants as well as the Mayflower Steps commemorating the departure of the Pilgrims for the New World in 1620. Learn more about their journey at the Mayflower Museum, or dive into the history of gin at the famous distillery that has been producing the spirit since 1793. Just across the harbor stands the National Marine Aquarium, the largest in England, while a ferry ride along Plymouth Sound leads to the manicured gardens and Tudor estate of Mount Edgcumbe, a lovely setting for a coastal walk after exploring the home’s period furnishings and rare tapestries.