Sutton Harbour A Thriving Marina in Plymouth's Coastal Area

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Cityscape Photography Near Water
Credit: pexels.com, Cityscape Photography Near Water

Sutton Harbour is a thriving marina in Plymouth's coastal area, offering a picturesque setting for sailors and visitors alike. Located in the heart of the city, it has a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

The harbour's strategic position made it an important hub for trade and commerce, with merchants and sailors coming from all over the world to buy and sell goods. Today, it's a popular destination for boating enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing day out.

Sutton Harbour is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, catering to different tastes and budgets. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, grab a coffee, or browse the local boutiques and art galleries.

The harbour's picturesque setting, complete with historic buildings and a lively atmosphere, makes it a must-visit destination in Plymouth.

History

Sutton Harbour has a rich history dating back to around 700 AD when it was first settled. The area was originally known as Sudtone, which translates to "south settlement" in Old English.

Credit: youtube.com, Experience Sutton Harbour

The harbour played a significant role in England's maritime history, serving as the base for the English fleet that sailed to challenge the Spanish Armada in 1588.

In the 18th century, the Royal Navy moved most of its operations to Devonport, but Sutton Harbour continued to be used by the fishing fleet and coastal trading vessels.

Lock gates were added to the harbour entrance in 1993, ensuring safe passage for vessels.

Marina and Fisheries

Sutton Harbour is a bustling hub of activity, with a rich history and plenty to see and do. The fish market, one of the harbour's main attractions, has undergone significant changes over the years, with a new building opening in 1995 to accommodate the growing demand for fresh seafood.

The turnover of the market has increased dramatically, from £250,000 a year in 1995 to a staggering £19.4 million in 2015. This growth is a testament to the harbour's importance as a fishing hub, with 6,000 tonnes of fish and shellfish sold annually.

Around 40 fishing boats unload their catch at Sutton Harbour daily, but surprisingly, up to 70 per cent of fish sold in Plymouth actually arrives by road from other fishing ports in the South West of England.

The Marina

Credit: youtube.com, Fishing A HUGE Marina | Matt and Tank VLOG #014

Sutton Harbour Marina has a long history, dating back to 1972 when the first 70 berths were opened for recreational yachts.

Today, the marina is a thriving hub with 420 berths, managed by Sutton Harbour Holdings PLC.

The marina offers berthing packages to suit various needs, with knowledgeable and friendly staff on hand to discuss options.

All berths are fully serviced with local utility connections and nearby pump-out facilities for convenience.

You can enjoy 24-hour access to your secure walk-ashore berth, with gated access monitored by on-site personnel and CCTV for added peace of mind.

The National Marine Aquarium is a major attraction in the area, featuring around 400 marine species and a massive 2.5 million litres of water in its deep tank.

Plymouth Fisheries

Plymouth Fisheries is a bustling hub of activity, with a rich history dating back to 1892 when the first purpose-built market building was opened on The Barbican. The market has undergone significant changes since then, with a new building opening in 1995 on the other side of Sutton Harbour.

Credit: youtube.com, Plymouth Fisheries at Sutton Harbour with Dr Dave Gibson

The turnover of the market has increased dramatically, from £250,000 a year in 1995 to a staggering £19.4 million in 2015. This growth is a testament to the market's popularity and the demand for fresh seafood.

Around 40 fishing boats unload their catch at Sutton Harbour daily, but surprisingly, up to 70 per cent of fish sold in Plymouth arrives by road from other fishing ports in the South West of England. This highlights the importance of the market's connections with other fishing communities.

The market now sells an impressive 6,000 tonnes of fish and shellfish annually, making it the second largest fish market in England. This is a remarkable achievement, and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the fishermen and market staff.

Here's a breakdown of the market's impressive statistics:

  • £250,000: The market's turnover in 1995
  • £19.4 million: The market's turnover in 2015
  • 6,000 tonnes: The amount of fish and shellfish sold annually
  • 40: The number of fishing boats unloading their catch daily
  • 70%: The percentage of fish sold in Plymouth that arrives by road

Location and Planning

Sutton Harbour is located in a unique and historic area, with a vision to create a high-quality environment that will attract investment and new residents.

The Area Action Plan aims to balance economic investment and tourism with protecting the historic environment and meeting local community needs.

The plan sets out land use policies and proposals to achieve this balance, ensuring a sustainable and attractive mixed-use city quarter.

Plymouth, South West

Credit: youtube.com, An introduction to The Plymouth and South West Devon Climate Emergency Planning Statement

Plymouth, South West, is a treasure trove of history and culture. The historic Barbican and Sutton Harbour are the heart of the city's heritage with the oldest buildings and the greatest number of historical stories.

You can find an eclectic mix of international restaurants in the area, with options ranging from Italian to Japanese and British cuisine. The city's maritime heritage is also on full display.

The main street of Southside Street is home to the world-famous Plymouth Gin Distillery, a building dating back to the early 1400s. This historic site is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's past.

Sutton Harbour is perfectly placed to make the most of all Plymouth has to offer, from historic landmarks to family attractions. The National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK, is at the entrance to the harbour.

You can take a boat tour to learn more about the local marine environment or catch a fish and learn how to cook it. The lively waterfront culture of Sutton Harbour offers a unique welcome to visitors.

Area Action Plan

Credit: youtube.com, Official Community Plan Amendments - Housing Action Plan

The Area Action Plan is a crucial part of the planning process, setting out land use policies and proposals to balance economic investment and tourism with protecting the historic environment.

This plan aims to create a unique and high-quality environment that will attract investment and new residents, as seen in the vision for Sutton Harbour.

The plan balances competing needs by considering the local community's requirements alongside economic and tourism demands.

The Sutton Harbour Area Action Plan specifically targets the development of the Sutton Harbour area as a mixed-use city quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of Sutton Harbour Plymouth?

Sutton Harbour, originally known as Sudtone, has a rich history dating back to around 700 AD, with the harbour serving as a base for the English fleet in 1588. This historic harbour has a fascinating story to tell, from its early settlement to its pivotal role in maritime history.

Who owns Sutton Harbor, Plymouth?

Sutton Harbour Group plc owns and operates Sutton Harbour, Plymouth's historic waterfront. This includes popular attractions, events, and dining spots amidst the city's maritime history.

What time does Sutton Harbour freeflow open?

Sutton Harbour freeflow is available up to 3 hours before and after high tide, no specific time is mentioned

Elmer Kassulke

Lead Assigning Editor

Here is a 100-word author bio for Elmer Kassulke: Elmer Kassulke is an accomplished Assigning Editor with a keen interest in storytelling. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for research, Elmer has covered a wide range of topics, from the Port of Bristol to the works of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Their expertise spans various categories, including geography, history, culture, and transportation, making them a versatile and reliable voice in the world of journalism.

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