About Us
Plymouth Sound is the UK’s first National Marine Park. It was created to reconnect a city with one of the most remarkable stretches of sea in the country, teeming with wildlife and history.
It’s a story of pride, place and getting your feet wet. And it’s already making waves, helping to inspire a movement for future National Marine Parks up and down the country.
Our Projects
From Blue Sparks community projects and youth activities to heritage restoration, habitat work and Sea for Yourself artist residencies, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park is buzzing with ideas in motion. Explore our projects to see how we are working with communities across the city, shaping the waterfront and helping this remarkable stretch of sea thrive for future generations.
Meet our Rangers
Our Coastal Rangers are often the first people you’ll meet at events, activities and volunteer days in Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. They work with communities across the city to help people connect with the sea on their doorstep and feel a real sense of belonging to the National Marine Park.
History of the National Marine Park
Long before sails filled the Sound, Drake’s Island rose from the sea as a volcano. Centuries on, shipwrecks rest on the seabed, now bursting with marine life. Every tide tells a story of adventure, change and renewal in the heart of Plymouth Sound.
Our Journey
Plymouth Sound National Marine Park began as an idea to reconnect the city with its remarkable seascape. From declaration to full recognition, the journey has been powered by partnership and pride. Today, the UK’s first National Marine Park is bringing people closer to the water while protecting it for the future.
Our Anchor Sites and Partners
Mount Batten Peninsula
Mount Batten
Tinside Lido
Tinside Lido
Mount Edgcumbe Country Park
Mount Edgcumbe
Plymouth Culture
Plymouth Culture
A big thanks to
Our Funders
We wouldn’t be able to bring the UK’s first National Marine Park to Plymouth without the backing of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, UK Government and Plymouth City Council.
Declaration of Intent
The Declaration of Intent is the DNA of the UK’s first National Marine Park. It sets out the intentions of the signatories to work together within the parameters of their own governance framework.