Plymouth’s Latest Visitor Attraction: The Box

Aug032020
Plymouth’s Latest Visitor Attraction: The Box

Plymouth’s new visitor attraction, The Box, is scheduled to open on 29th September 2020. The opening is of international importance and is in line with the cities Mayflower 400 celebrations. So, what can you see and do there? We have summed up what you can expect on your visit.

The Box is a brand-new museum, gallery and archive in Plymouth. The original City Museum and Art Gallery has been completely transformed and extended. It has six national collections, over two million artefacts, archives, film, photographs, the Mayflower and a mammoth. 

Originally, The Box was supposed to open on 16th May 2020, after a preview weekend, but it was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy

The commemorative exhibition Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy will let you explore how one ship connects four nations over 400 years. Within the collection are 300 items including drawings, diaries, maps, portraits, plans and the first Bible to be printed in America.

Making It

Referencing Plymouth’s history, Making It is the inaugural exhibition at The Box. Alongside this, the art collection is a grand display with paintings covering 400 years of history. It includes some of the earliest existing depictions of Plymouth – small sketches and watercolours that date from the 1600s.

See 14 Victorian Royal Navy figureheads at The Box PlymouthImage courtesy of Visit Plymouth

The High Seas

There are 14 Victorian Royal Navy figureheads which have been suspended. You will be wowed by the impressive scale and detail of these historic wooden carvings. Find out about their beginnings from their makers to their journeys.

Alongside the busts, are collections of oil paintings, ship models and social history through film, animation and sound. You can picture yourself in the crowds at Plymouth Sound as they witnessed a defeated Napoleon awaiting his fate. Find out how Devonport Dockyard progressed from building sailing ships to nuclear submarines. The building of the iconic Eddystone Lighthouse and the stories behind the communities that shaped Plymouth’s ports.

The Star Attraction

A fully assembled woolly mammoth will be one of the major highlights when visiting the attraction. The life-sized, yet un-named female was discovered at Yealm Bridge Cavern at Kitley Estate in Plymouth. 35,000 years ago, mammoths were in Plymouth alongside other species from that period, including cave lions, bears, woolly rhinos and hyenas.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of what you can see and do in The Box, you can see the full list of the permanent attractions here.

The Woolly Mammouth at The Box PlymouthImage courtesy of Visit Plymouth

Your safety during the visit

The safety of staff and visitors is paramount. The team at The Box have marked clear one way systems, and a have a reduced entry capacity and at their on-site events. There are also hand sanitising facilities and enhanced cleaning throughout. As it is an indoor tourist attraction, a face covering or mask will also need to be worn. 

Book your tickets

Planning your visit is essential, as you'll need to pre-book your tickets. General entry is free, but there is a small charge to see the Mayflower 400: Legend & Legacy exhibition (unless you are a Plymouth resident). Tickets are available from 10th September.

More information

Enjoy a Staycation with Future Inn Plymouth

The Box is a 15-minute drive from the hotel or 20 minutes on public transport – which you can get from across the road - or by bike. As a cycle-friendly hotel you can also use the hotel as a base to enjoy the great outdoors and the National Cycle Network.

There are three room types for you to choose from, including our twins which offer two double beds. All bedrooms can sleep up to four, making them ideal for groups or families. All stays include free parking and free WiFi. 

With our super flexible rates, you can book with confidence when staying at Future Inn Plymouth. Book direct for the best rates guaranteed on our website, or by contacting the Reservations Team on 01752 701000 or reservations.plymouth@futureinns.co.uk.

Dine on Local Cuisine 

Fishbone Restaurant is an ideal place to sit in comfort and fuel up on local, homemade produce. Join us for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, evening a-la-carte or traditional roasts on Sunday. Under 5's eat for free with a paying adult, and the offer is extended to under 12's during the school holidays.

A large selection of drinks is also available including local ales, cider and the famous Plymouth Gin. Alongside a wine selection, there is also a cocktail list, all of which are £7. 

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

 

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