Royal Citadel, Military fortress on Plymouth Hoe, England
The Royal Citadel extends across six acres with limestone walls rising 70 feet high, offering strategic control over Plymouth Sound and the naval harbor.
Built between 1665 and 1671 under King Charles II during the Anglo-Dutch Wars, the fortress incorporated an earlier Tudor fort from Sir Francis Drake's era.
The Royal Chapel of St Katherine within the citadel maintains regular military services, continuing a tradition of worship dating back to 1371.
Visitors must present valid photo identification and book guided tours at least 24 hours in advance, available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from April to October.
The fortress remains an active military base after 350 years, housing the 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery while simultaneously allowing public guided tours.
Location: City of Plymouth
Inception: 1592
Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/royal-citadel-plymouth
GPS coordinates: 50.36490,-4.13805
Latest update: May 12, 2025 07:08
Barbican
293 m
Mayflower Steps
315 m
Armada Memorial
261 m
Plymouth Castle
276 m
Dolphin Inn
332 m
Royal Chapel of St Katherine-upon-the-Hoe
108 m
Prince Christian Victor Memorial
183 m
Island House
325 m
Mayflower Museum
315 m
Elizabethan House Museum
299 m
Royal Air Force Memorial
243 m
Elizabethan Gardens
268 m
Plymouth Division Royal Marines War Memorial
163 m
Duttons Cafe (Former Artillery Store/Magazine)
319 m
Victorian Drinking Fountain Memorial In Hoe Park
230 m
10 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force Plaque, Barbican
254 m
Mayflower Sailing Club
214 m
13, The Barbican
336 m
Shelter By Smeatons Tower, The Promenade
267 m
24 And 25, New Street
315 m
K6 Telephone Kiosk (Adjacent To Park Keepers Lodge)
158 m
Park Keepers Lodge
160 m
Remains of Frederick's Battery on Plymouth Hoe
250 m
12, The Barbican
330 m
22, New Street
309 m
6, The Barbican
319 m
Warehouse Of Flairway Limited And Pilgrim Trading Company
243 m
Bollards And Steps In Front Of Numbers 23 And 24 (Number 23 Not Included)
323 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes