Located on Devon’s south coast, Plymouth is a UK port city that has a long history that can be traced to the Bronze age. It is also a region that offers plenty in terms of services, amenities, landmarks and attractions. These factors make Plymouth a frequently visited destination for travellers from across the globe. Taking this into consideration, the following information has been put together to let travellers know more about Plymouth’s history, as well as what they can expect to find if they come to the region for tourism, business or transit purposes. It will also explain what travellers need to know regarding the new UK ETA for Plymouth that will be implemented in the next few years.
The Origins of Plymouth
Plymouth’s origins can be traced to a Bronze Age settlement located at Mount Batten. This settlement would continue to flourish during the Roman era as a trading post. The historian Ptolemy listed a settlement named Tamari Ostia in his work called Geographia. This settlement is believed to have been located in the region of the modern city.
Mediaeval Plymouth
Plymouth enjoyed prosperity as a fishing village during the mediaeval period. It grew from a village into a town by the 13th century. The growth of the town’s market included an influx of merchants and craftsmen who continued to help the region grow. Plymouth’s official charter was bestowed in 1254. In 1390, a law was passed stating that any pilgrim who wanted to travel abroad had to leave from either the port of Dover or the one located at Plymouth.
Plymouth’s Growth During the 16th and 17th Centuries
The 16th and 17th centuries were a time of growth in Plymouth. The region’s population was around 3,500 at the start of the 16th century. By 1642, this population had doubled and is believed to have surpassed 7,000 inhabitants. This made it one of England’s larger towns. The growth was encouraged by the fishing industry’s importance in Tudor, England.
The Recent History of Plymouth
During World War II, the Plymouth region was subjected to significant bombing as a result of its important dockyards. 59 separate bombing raids led to the devastation of the city centre. Upon the conclusion of the war, the region had to be significantly rebuilt. The 1970s saw ferry services rising between the port at Plymouth and France. They would also begin journeys to Spain by the late 1970s.
Plymouth flourished during the 21st century. Its importance as a port has remained. It is home to one of the UK’s most important naval bases. The region is also the location of one of the country’s top universities.
Types of Dining Found in Plymouth
Travellers to the Plymouth region will find that they have a large selection of food options to choose from. These options include both casual and fine dining. Area restaurants serve traditional British meals and dishes from across the globe. There are many local takeaway spots available for those who are looking for a quick meal.
Live Entertainment in Plymouth
The pubs of the Plymouth region regularly have live music on. Travellers can also catch live events at larger venues, such as the Theatre Royal Plymouth, Plymouth Pavillions and Home Park.
Typical Plymouth Weather Conditions
The Plymouth region is known for its warm, temperate climate and for a significant amount of annual rainfall. The area’s average temperature is 10.9° C, and the average rainfall is 1,028 mm.
The Notable Landmarks and Popular Attractions Around Plymouth
The National Marine Aquarium
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The National Marine Aquarium is the UK’s largest aquarium and one of the most visited attractions in the Plymouth region. Administered by the Ocean Conservation Trust, the aquarium focuses on connecting visitors with the Ocean.
Theatre Royal Plymouth
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The Theatre Royal Plymouth is one of the most visited venues for live entertainment in the city. It regularly hosts events, such as ballets, musicals and operas.
The Barbican
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The Barbican is Plymouth’s old port region. It is known for its Elizabethan warehouses, cobbled streets, restaurants, art galleries and specialist shops.
Plymbridge Woods
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Managed by the National Trust, Plymbridge Woods is one of the most visited natural areas in the Plymouth region of the UK. It is known for its walking and cycling routes, as well as a variety of species of wildlife.
What Travellers Need to Know About the UK ETA for Plymouth
The UK ETA for Plymouth is a new system that is being rolled out by the United Kingdom Home Office to act as a pre-check for travellers entering the country from abroad. The plans are to have the system fully in place by the end of 2024. Individuals who wish to travel to the UK must apply for the ETA online and pay their application fees. Applications will go through a series of security databases so that an informed decision can be made on the applicant’s eligibility to enter the United Kingdom. The major factor that will be considered will be past criminal activity. This includes previous immigration violations. Travellers who wish to visit the Plymouth region from abroad need to be aware of the implementation of the UK ETA system and its application process.
Reasons for UK ETA System Launch
The Home Office’s decision to launch the new UK ETA for Plymouth is part of an overall goal to create the most efficient, secure border control and legal migration system in the world. The launch of the program will begin in either 2023 or 2024. Estimates state that up to 30 million travellers across the world will use the new UK ETA system prior to entering the country for the purposes of tourism, business purposes and short-term transit.
Required Documentation for the UK ETA for Plymouth
There are key ETA requirements that travellers need to be aware of before applying through the system. Applicants must provide documentation that includes a biometric passport. Additional personal information that must be provided includes the applicant’s date of birth, residential address and travel details. Those applying for the UK ETA must supply a valid email address and must have a debit or credit card to pay their application fee.
The ETA Application Process
The UK ETA application process must be done by all individuals who want to come to the United Kingdom from the 90 countries listed as requiring Electronic Travel Authorisation before entry can be approved. British passport holders do not have to apply for the UK ETA. From 2024 forward, holders of Irish passports will also be exempt from the ETA. In many circumstances, British nationals who currently reside overseas will be exempt from needing to apply through the ETA system from 2024 onward.
Requirements for the UK ETA
ETA eligibility states that travellers applying through the system must come from a country with no visa requirements to enter the United Kingdom for travel purposes. They must hold a valid e-passport to submit an application. Those who are approved through the UK ETA system can remain in the country for up to six months for tourism or business. Transit purposes are also covered under the scope of the ETA. Travellers who are approved should have no previous immigration violations and should be free of any criminal record that would deem them as being a danger to the safety of the UK’s residents. Travellers wishing to come to the United Kindom will have to complete the ETA application online and pay their fees. From there, they must wait for approval before boarding any UK-bound flights.
Travel Purposes Covered Under the UK ETA
Travellers planning to come to the United Kingdom for tourism, business and transit purposes should make themselves aware of all of the details related to the UK ETA for Plymouth. The best place to head for answers to any questions is the official ETA FAQ. Any traveller who wishes to visit Plymouth should read through all of this information as early in the process of making plans as possible. This is the best way to ensure that there is sufficient application processing and approval time before any planned departures to airports in the United Kingdom.