There are many fortresses and defensive towers around Plymouth Sound. However, the one that I would suggest that you visit is The Royal Citadel. It is only open to the public on Tuesday afternoons, at 14:30, and it is then possible to go on a guided tour of this magnificent structure. It is in a very prominent position overlooking the harbour and was completed in 1670. Since that time it has been in continuous military use and, from 1897, it has been garrisoned by the Royal Artillery. If you are at all interested in canons then they have a fantastic selection for you to admire. It is interesting to note that the mere presence of this imposing fortress meant that, until 1939, not a single shot had been fired in anger from its massive ramparts. From the walls it is possible to get a marvellous view of the harbour including the Mount Batten peninsula opposite. For most of the last century Mount Batten was an R.A.F. seaplane base. Lawrence of Arabia was stationed there during the 1930s.
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