Car Rental Plymouth - Exploring Plymouth

Devon is the western-most county in England, apart from Cornwall, and both counties boast some of the most untouched areas of English countryside. The main town in Devon is Exeter, which is the best base for those wishing to explore the moorlands of Exmoor and the wilderness of Dartmoor.

Both places are havens for outdoor enthusiasts seeking some solitude from the comparatively busy coastal resorts and towns. Exeter itself has fine restaurants and some of the best nightlife in the region.

There are several superb beach resorts ideal for practising water sports such as swimming and windsurfing. Bournemouth, to the east of Plymouth in Dorset, is famous for its clean sandy beaches; while Torquay and other East Devon resorts combine to make up what is known as the ‘English Rivera’. All towns in the area have plenty of accommodation options and excellent restaurants, while the bigger towns have an assortment of nightlife activities.

The main town of Dorset, the county to the east of Devon, is Dorchester, which is the most convenient base for exploring the area. It boasts some fine examples of Georgian architecture and the remains of original fortified Roman walls. Near the town are several significant attractions, including the fascinating Roman ruins of Maumbury Rings and the intriguing prehistoric Maiden Castle.

Along the coast, the ancient fishing ports of Poole and Weymouth both feature enchanting historic architecture. In Poole, there is a traditional old quayside quarter that includes hundreds of quaint buildings, while Weymouth claims the spectacular ruins of Sandsfoot Castle and the restored Tudor House. Farther inland are more charming villages and towns, such as: Cerne Abbas, Blandford Forum, Shaftesbury and Sherborne.

Heading westward from Plymouth, you will find more attractive resorts and magnificent scenery in remote Cornwall. If you like boating, then you will love Falmouth. Alternatively, surfers should head for the beaches around Newquay. Magical Tintagel conjures up Arthurian legends, while jagged Land’s End creates a more isolated and lonely atmosphere.