Plymouth, endearingly known as the “biggest village in Devon”, exudes a charm that’s palpable upon entering the city centre, or “town” as the locals affectionately call it, where familiar faces are a common sight.
As the largest city in the vicinity, Plymouth maintains a relaxed pace of life, punctuated occasionally by flurries of activity. The city bears the scars of its history, having been heavily bombed during World War II, which has indelibly shaped its urban landscape.
Yet, the sea is Plymouth’s steadfast ally, despite my reservations about its moniker “Ocean City”. This nickname suggests that Plymouth’s waters, The Sound, are part of the ocean, whereas they are actually an extension of the English Channel.
The city’s waterfront becomes a hive of activity in summer, attracting throngs of visitors, but come winter, the Hoe Promenade offers a tranquil retreat from city life. Growing up near Devon’s coast, I’ve come to appreciate the stark contrast between the bustling summer beaches and the serene winters.
Whenever possible, I make my way to Tinside Beach for a dip, braving the cold. While I don’t swim out as far as the hardy all-season bathers, the invigorating experience of the cold water is worth the initial shock, as per Plymouth Live.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to observe a remarkable variety of wildlife whilst taking a dip or strolling around Plymouth Hoe, ranging from seals and dolphins to cormorants and raptors. During the summer months, it’s fairly typical to spot thousands of tiny fish being swept towards the shore by the tide.
The ebb and flow of the waters become particularly striking during a full moon or new lunar phase along this coastline. This phenomenon happens due to the alignment of the moon, sun and Earth, with their combined gravitational pull generating extreme tidal variations – producing exceptionally elevated or notably diminished water levels.
What I cherish most about Plymouth Hoe is its preserved natural state. It hasn’t been dominated by fairground attractions, which maintains its timeless appeal.
Additionally, it has become a significant site for marine biology and underwater archaeology. Looking out over the waters, I frequently find myself imagining the numerous historical figures who have navigated these waters, from pirates to smugglers.
The term “hoe” is believed to derive from the Anglo-Saxon word “hoh”, signifying a heel-shaped prominence or escarpment. In bygone eras, Plymouth Hoe would have been excavated, with substantial amounts of the limestone used for constructing the city’s period buildings.
However, Plymouth is not without its challenges, particularly when it comes to traffic congestion. With plans afoot for additional housing on the city’s outskirts, there are concerns that this issue could escalate.
As Plymouth has expanded, so too has the influx of vehicles, with new residential areas replacing what were once untouched landscapes.
While some parts of Plymouth have managed to retain their original charm, it’s somewhat disheartening to witness the rapid urbanisation. There’s a growing apprehension that increased concreting could exacerbate flooding risks in the future, and the potential surge in population might lead to more sewage being discharged into the sea.
Despite these challenges, Plymouth has admirably preserved its quintessential Devonian allure, even with its unique status and origins. It remains a stronghold for locals, largely resisting the influx of holiday homes and Airbnb rentals that have swept across many other towns in Devon and Cornwall.
We’re fortunate to still have a thriving fishing industry in Plymouth, which, despite recent hurdles, continues to offer employment opportunities for local residents. Moreover, Plymouth is nestled amidst stunning beaches and secluded coves, as well as the untamed wilderness of Dartmoor, offering us a plethora of choices all year round.