Plymouth’s Mayflower and Citadel: An Audio Tour

Duration45m - 1h 15m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Plymouth’s maritime history stretches back centuries, and the Barbican district will give you a glimpse into its storied past. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll explore the historic heart of a city that launched voyages of both discovery and conquest. You’ll also find out how Plymouth’s strategic location shaped not just British history but world events – from the sailing of the Mayflower to Napoleon’s final defeat. The tour starts at the iconic Mayflower Steps Memorial where, in September 1620, the Pilgrim Fathers departed on their momentous journey to the New World. Along the way, you’ll discover how this bustling port connected England to global trade networks, and played a crucial role in the development of Britain’s naval power. The tour ends back near the Mayflower Museum, where you can hear more of the story of the famous voyage that forever linked Plymouth to American history.

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
App for Android and iOS
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

What to expect

Mayflower Steps
Pass by

Begin your journey at this iconic waterfront memorial marking where the Pilgrim Fathers departed for the New World in September 1620. Discover how this momentous voyage from Plymouth forever linked this English port to American history.
Pass by

Pass this historic Tudor building where local tradition says Pilgrim leaders gathered for their final meetings before embarking on the Mayflower. Learn about the preparations and decisions made within these walls before the fateful Atlantic crossing.
Plymouth Gin Distillery
Pass by

Explore Britain's oldest working gin distillery, operating on this site since 1793 and supplying the Royal Navy for centuries. Discover how Plymouth Gin became the spirit of choice for sailors and remains protected by geographical indication today.
Elizabethan Gardens
Pass by

Stroll through this tranquil hidden oasis tucked among the bustling harbour streets and historic buildings. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this recreated Tudor garden that offers a quiet escape from the Barbican's lively waterfront.
Royal Citadel
Pass by

Marvel at this imposing 17th-century fortress that has guarded Plymouth's harbour for over 300 years. Learn how its massive walls and artillery kept watch over the town after the English Civil War and continue to serve military purposes today.
Sir Francis Drake
Pass by

Admire this commanding statue of England's legendary sea captain on Plymouth Hoe, gazing out toward Plymouth Sound. Hear the famous story of how Drake allegedly insisted on finishing his game of bowls before battling the Spanish Armada in 1588.
Pass by

Walk along this commanding viewpoint overlooking Plymouth Sound with panoramic views stretching to Cornwall and the Tamar estuary. Experience the historic green where Sir Francis Drake reportedly played bowls while awaiting news of the Spanish Armada.
Pass by

Stand at the spot where crowds once gathered hoping to glimpse the defeated Emperor Napoleon aboard HMS Bellerophon in 1815. Discover how Plymouth played a role in one of history's most dramatic moments following the Battle of Waterloo.
Smeaton's Tower
Pass by

Marvel at this iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse from 1759, relocated to Plymouth Hoe from its original position on the Eddystone Rocks. Climb its winding stairs for spectacular 360-degree views across Plymouth Sound and discover the engineering genius of John Smeaton.
The Mayflower Museum and Plymouth Tourist Information Centre
Pass by

End your tour near this museum dedicated to the Pilgrim Fathers' journey and Plymouth's role in the founding of America. Explore exhibits that bring to life the courage and challenges faced by those who sailed from this very harbor.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

This tour starts at The Mayflower Steps Memorial. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

Tour ends along Queen Anne’s Battery and Mayflower Marina.

Additional information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

From

$9.99 per person

Check availability & book

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Instant confirmation
You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.

Operated by VoiceMap Audio Tours · Booked through Viator

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