Car hire Plymouth

Plymouth is well connected to the county’s best attractions, with major routes leading in and out of the city, including the Devon Expressway (which is part of the A38). From here, you can reach Exeter in around an hour, depending on traffic, taking the A38 east. Additionally, the A386 runs north of the city to reach the edge of Dartmoor National Park in only 20 minutes or so.

Car hire in Plymouth also opens up further options for exploration as it sits close to the border of Cornwall, another fascinating south-west county – and perfect for a spot of cream tea by the sea. You can reach England’s most southerly tip in just over two hours via the A38 and A30 south-west, stopping along the way at various castles, gardens and clifftops along the way.

There’s plenty of parking to be found in Plymouth, with more than 5,000 spaces dotted around the city. On street paid parking is divided into different zones according to the various tariffs in place. Usually, the cost per hour increases the closer you get to the centre. There are also plenty of large car parks for longer stays.

Driving in England is similar to back home, as you still drive on the left. However, one of the major differences is speed limits – which are displayed in miles per hour (mph). When driving on motorways or dual carriageways the maximum speed limit is typically 70mph (112km/h). On many single rural carriageways this drops to 60mph (96km/h), and when driving in towns and cities the limit is usually 30mph (48km/h).

Always check the signs for the route that you are however on as limits can vary – and residential zones can sometimes be as low as 20mph (32km/h).

Beautifully situated on England’s south-west coast, Plymouth greets its visitors with a vibrant, infectious energy.

Rich in history, this port city also leads the way in innovation and is filled with a multitude of waterfront attractions – from its striking lighthouse to the marine aquarium. With a hire car from Plymouth, you’re free to explore the city and the vast Devon and Cornwall countryside beyond.

Smeaton's Tower

Plymouth Hoe has been a prime spot for watching the boats sail in and out of the English Channel for generations. At its core sits the iconic lighthouse, Smeaton’s Tower, named after the 18^th-century engineer and designer John Smeaton.

Venture to the top for glorious views across the coast – while the tower itself looks especially breath-taking during sunset. The area has played an important role in British history; it’s where Sir Francis Drake embarked on his triumphant defeat of the Spanish Armada in the 1500s.

There’s also a 17^th-century fortress, the Royal Citadel, to the east of the Hoe, which was used to defend Plymouth against Dutch invaders. It’s still used by the British Army today, with guided tours available for a closer look and explanation of its history.

Woodland walks

Plymouth is enveloped in natural beauty, from its rugged coastline to the luscious greenery on its doorstep. The most striking nearby area is probably Dartmoor National Park, which includes everything from castles to wild ponies.

There are countless different walks to embark on here, taking you through forests, over rivers and across open landscapes. For untouched paradise, Dart Valley follows the River Dart and features a range of local wildlife, from exotic butterflies to woodland birds.

Fernworthy Reservoir is another great location, nestled against the River Teign. Along with the mesmerising countryside, you’ll also find a variety of historical influences including ancient cairns and hut circles.  

There are also plenty of opportunities to camp beneath the stars at various campsites, as well as horse-riding, cycling, and canoeing.

Cornish wonders

Given its position on the edge of Devon, Plymouth also provides the perfect opportunity to explore the county of Cornwall – known for its pasties, folklore and surfing spots. Head west on the A38 and A30 to discover an abundance of fascinating landmarks and attractions, including the towns of Newquay and Penzance.

First on the list is the Eden Project, a botanic garden that features several domes containing plants from around the world, and is around an hour’s drive away. There’s the Rainforest Biome, complete with canopy walkways and a cascading waterfall, and the Mediterranean Biome with hot, humid temperatures and Bacchanalian sculptures.

Just beyond this sits Caerhays Castle, with more than 500,000 square metres of glorious gardens that lead to the beach. The castle itself is over 300 years old, while the gardens are exceptionally beautiful in spring when they erupt with colour.  

Eventually the coast leads to Lizard Point (just over 130km away), which is a National Trust treasure. Enjoy breath-taking views from the cliffs across the English Channel, and of the azure waters below.

With car hire in Plymouth, you’re free to explore all the allures of Devon and Cornwall, and the tremendous port city itself.