Mayflower 400 in Dartmouth and Plymouth
Mayflower 400: In the Wake of the Pilgrim Fathers
Two of South Devon’s most illustrious ports are gearing up for a year-long celebration.
It’s being billed as the world’s biggest family reunion, a commemoration of one of history’s most iconic voyages.
Fleeing the religious intolerances of 17th-century England, the Pilgrim Fathers would eventually settle in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and become the descendants of millions of modern-day Americans.
The pilgrims’ story remains embedded in the cultural history of America, their epic journey across the Atlantic Ocean aboard the Mayflower celebrated the world over and seen as a chronicle of bravery and endurance that ultimately led to the freedom of the New World.
To mark the 400th anniversary of the voyage of Mayflower a series of events is being planned both up and down the country. Among the ports helping to celebrate this remarkable passage are the bustling maritime city of Plymouth and flamboyant harbour town of Dartmouth.
Plymouth’s part in the pilgrims’ story is considered one of its most prominent chapters as it was the sparkling waters of Plymouth Sound upon which the Mayflower set sail in 1620, a handsome square rig bound for Cape Cod carrying 120 passengers and a 30-strong crew.
Dartmouth, too, played its part in the crossing; the Mayflower having initially departed from Plymouth sailing in the wake of a sister ship known as the Speedwell, which soon after launch began taking on water. Diverting to the sheltered harbour of Dartmouth, both vessels dropped anchor at Bayards Cove. Despite some feverish repair work, the Speedwell was eventually deemed ‘untrustworthy’, its master and crew joining their comrades aboard the Mayflower for what became a solo voyage.
Things to look forward to in Plymouth…
Destination Plymouth and Plymouth Culture have joined forces to organise the city’s Mayflower400 commemorative celebrations which are set to include; a US Presidential and royal family visit, a joint armed forces celebration, the sailing of the Mayflower III ( a replica of the Mayflower; a Dutch cargo fluyt) and the official opening of the city’s brand new History Centre. You can also look forward to a number of musical and theatre productions, plus art installations and joint international commissions.
Take a look at our growing list of holiday cottages tucked away both in and around the famous maritime city of Plymouth. Surround yourself with some of the region’s most beautiful beaches and spectacular walks when you book a stay with Toad Hall Cottages
Things happening in Dartmouth…
As one of eleven towns participating in the Mayflower400 celebrations, Dartmouth has put together a bumper calendar of events in commemoration of the Mayflower’s departure from English shores. Officially commencing on Thanksgiving (Thursday 28th November) in recognition of our American cousins’ national holiday, the Dartmouth schedule is set to include a Mayflower candlelit procession, a production of the Shakespearean play ‘Much Ado About Nothing’, a grand pageant on the River Dart, a visit from naval frigates, a flotilla of Tall Ships including the replica ship Mayflower III, with celebrations finally drawing to an end during a closing events ceremony.
Smuggle yourself away for a memorable break in the Elizabethan harbour town of Dartmouth. Toad Hall Cottages has a long list of holiday properties both in and around this enchanting corner of South Devon; from cosy boltholes and romantic retreats to handsome town houses and plush waterside apartments, we’ve got the keys to your dream location.