United Kingdom Tourism

Plymouth is a city and major port on the south west coast of the region.  The city lies at the confluence of the rivers Plym and Tamar at the head of Plymouth Sound.  Although within the ceremonial county of Devon, Plymouth is a separate unitary authority.  The Plymouth urban area, which spills slightly into the neighbouring district of South Hams, is the third largest urban area in the South West.

Plymouth is one of the primary gateways to Cornwall, via the A38 and railway bridges over the Tamar.  Road links also run north into central Cornwall and Devon.  Regular ferries run from Millbay to Brittany and Santander, Spain.  Plymouth also has a small city airport, mostly operating UK internal flights.

Traditionally, Plymouth’s economy has been linked to the sea, both in fisheries and the military; however, both have seen long-term decline, although the Royal Navy presence continues at Devonport Dockyard.  Productivity levels for Plymouth are comparatively low, and unemployment levels are the highest in the region.  The major employment sector is now public administration, education and health.  As well as the University of Plymouth, the city has several HEIs, including City College Plymouth, and the Plymouth College of Art and Design.

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Places to Visit in South West Region

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