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Smeaton's Tower

Lighthouse Plymouth Hoe | Plymouth Lighthouse | Plymouth Towers

Smeaton's Tower History

Smeaton’s Tower is an iconic lighthouse that stands proudly on Plymouth's Hoe, serving as a symbol of the city’s maritime heritage. Originally built in 1759 by engineer John Smeaton, it was located on the treacherous Eddystone Reef before being dismantled and re-erected on the Hoe in 1882. Visitors can climb its 93 steps to reach the lantern room, where they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over Plymouth Sound and beyond. The tower is a testament to 18th-century engineering and remains one of Plymouth’s most recognisable landmarks, offering insight into the city’s historic relationship with the sea.

What use is a lighthouse on dry land? Smeaton's Tower once stood about 14 miles out to sea - on a clear day, you can still see the stump on the horizon where it once stood proud against the elements. Just like a tree, the tower bends in the wind. It's hard to imagine what it was like out there in the middle of a raging storm, as it bent to and fro and the waves crashed right over the top. It sounds terrifying, but the tower never snapped, and now it is the model for all lighthouses built on rocks.

Smeaton's Tower Construction

Smeaton's Tower is a memorial to celebrated civil engineer John Smeaton, designer of the third and most notable Eddystone Lighthouse. A major step forward in lighthouse design, Smeaton's structure was in use from 1759 to 187, until erosion of the ledge it was built upon forced new construction. John Smeaton has another claim to fame - he also invented quick-drying cement!

Smeaton's Tower Prices

It is open for visitors, who may climb 93 steps, including steep ladders, to the lantern room and observe Plymouth Sound and the city. You'll be able to soak in the fantastic views of Plymouth Sound and the city and the tower itself, which has been painstakingly restored to its original glory.

Adults - £5
Children 5-17 - £2.50
Concessions - £2.50
Family (2 adults, 3 children) - £12
Additional child - £1

Smeaton's Tower Opening Times

Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays - 10am to 5pm (last entries at 4pm)

Closed from November to March

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Hotel near Smeaton's Tower

 

Future Inn Plymouth is a modern and comfortable hotel conveniently located near main access roads and public transportation. It offers easy access to the city centre and the surrounding Devon countryside. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms - all of which sleep up to four guests - that feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, a laptop safe, a complimentary robe and slippers, and home-away-from-home services like the guest laundry room, ice buckets, and wine glasses. There's also a small exercise room and free parking.

Plymouth Hoe, where you'll find Smeaton's Tower,  is a 17-minute drive from Future Inn Plymouth. Parking near Smeaton Tower Plymouth? There's pay-and-display street parking alongside Plymouth Hoe and additional parking in the city centre. Alternatively, it would take around 32 minutes on public transport, with the buses going from outside the hotel, or 26 minutes by bike. Did you know we're a cycle-friendly hotel?   

Make a reservation

Book direct for the best rates guaranteed.

Book your stay online or with our Reservations Team at:
01752 701000
 or reservations.plymouth@futureinns.co.uk.

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Future Club Rewards

For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant. Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!


Plymouth Restaurant

 

Fishbone Restaurant is a welcoming and contemporary dining venue. Known for serving locally sourced produce, the menu showcases a delightful range of British and seafood dishes, ensuring that diners can enjoy an authentic taste of the region. From hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.

Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. In the summer months, take advantage of the outdoor terrace. A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands such as Atlantic IPA, Offshore, Tarquins Gin, and Plymouth Gin. Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.

Bookings can be made on 01752 701000 or fishbone@futureinns.co.uk. Alternatively, you can book online:

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