Follow in the footsteps of the intrepid Mayflower pilgrims, and their final weeks in the UK. We’ll discover the beautiful river Port of Dartmouth where the Mayflower laid at anchor whilst the Speedwell had repairs and subject to availability, and have a tour of the town with the town crier, Les in full regalia! Lunch at a place of your choice, perhaps an ancient country pub before exploring Plymouth, one of the Worlds most historic maritime cities, where the Mayflower finally left on its famous voyage, and see many of the places the pilgrims would have visited! This trip can include visits to Plymouth Barbican, Plymouth Hoe, Dartmouth, Bayards Cove.
All our luxury guided day tours can be tailored to your personal wishes. Our bespoke itineraries can be crafted to ensure you get to visit the places you want when you want. Simply let us know where you’re interested in heading and we’ll do the rest! Click below to get an idea of a trip we would create for you.
09:00: Pick-Up
We can pick you up from wherever you are staying in the area, to commence our tour, which can start in either Dartmouth or Plymouth depending upon which is most convenient. Your guide will point out places of interest on the way, and recap on the history of the Mayflower to ‘set the scene’
10:00: Historic Dartmouth
Commence our walking tour of historic Dartmouth. Subject to availability, this could be conducted by Les and Liz Ellis, the town crier and Consort in their full, magnificent regalia to add some authentic flavour to the experience. We visit the town with its ancient buildings, see the beautiful estuary of the River Dart, and visit Bayards Cove with its elegant Inn, housed in a 14th Century Tudor House!
12:30-13:30 Lunch Break
To be taken at an appropriate location depending on your preferences. Ancient country pubs, cosy cafes etc. are all possibilities.
13:30-14:00: Journey to Plymouth
14:00: The Historic Port of Plymouth
The historic Port of Plymouth was once the Maritime Capital of the World! We will learn about some of the many voyages of discovery which left from the City, where the Mayflower finally left on its famous voyage. We’ll visit the historic Barbican area and see the Mayflower steps and Museum and also Island House where many of the Pilgrims lodged whilst in the town. We continue our exploration of Plymouth with a visit to The Blackfriars Distillery and home of Plymouth Gin. The refectory is said to be the room where the Pilgrims had their final supper before departure. We may take an optional guided tour of the Plymouth Gin distillery. Next stop is to stand on Plymouth Hoe, looking out on one of the worlds finest natural harbours. Here you are standing on history itself, the scene of some of the worlds most iconic voyages, including of course the sailing of the Mayflower.
Plymouth Barbican, Plymouth Hoe, Dartmouth, Bayards Cove
At Select South West Tours, we’re committed to exploring the South West responsibly. Our small group sizes, low-emission luxury vehicles, and support for local businesses help reduce our impact while boosting the communities we visit. It’s a more thoughtful way to travel—and a more rewarding one too.
Select South West Tours is a family-run tour company offering private, luxury day tours across Devon, Cornwall, and the wider South West. Travelling in comfort with expert local guides, guests enjoy tailored experiences to iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and stunning coastlines.