Plymouth Synagogue
A historic synagogue on Plymouth's Barbican, offering a beautiful interior and captivating tours by custodian Jerry, revealing centuries of Jewish his...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ensure a personal tour
Plymouth Synagogue
Best Time
Ensure a personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic synagogue on Plymouth's Barbican, offering a beautiful interior and captivating tours by custodian Jerry, revealing centuries of Jewish history.
"This unplanned detour became the unexpected highlight of our day in Plymouth. "
📞 Call Ahead for Tours
Book your visit with Jerry, the custodian, for an unforgettable historical journey. :iphone:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Jerry's tours are incredibly engaging; plan for at least two hours to fully absorb the history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jerry's Guided Tour
Experience centuries of Jewish history in Plymouth brought to life by the passionate custodian, Jerry. His storytelling is captivating.
Stunning Georgian Interior
Discover a surprisingly beautiful interior with elegant Georgian architectural details and a magnificent gilded Torah ark.
The Gilded Torah Ark
Marvel at the ornate and beautifully gilded Torah ark, a central and breathtaking feature of the synagogue's sanctuary.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book a Tour with Jerry
A Hidden Gem on the Barbican
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Call Ahead for Tours
Book your visit with Jerry, the custodian, for an unforgettable historical journey. :iphone:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Jerry's tours are incredibly engaging; plan for at least two hours to fully absorb the history.
🤝 Support the Community
This small, dedicated community welcomes visitors and appreciates any support offered.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Call Ahead for Tours
Book your visit with Jerry, the custodian, for an unforgettable historical journey. :iphone:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Jerry's tours are incredibly engaging; plan for at least two hours to fully absorb the history.
🤝 Support the Community
This small, dedicated community welcomes visitors and appreciates any support offered.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Plymouth Synagogue as a hidden gem, largely due to the exceptional guided tours offered by custodian Jerry. His storytelling brings the history of the Jewish community and Plymouth to life, making it an unexpected highlight for many. While the exterior is modest, the interior's Georgian architecture and gilded Torah ark are described as beautiful and impressive. The community's welcoming nature is also frequently mentioned.
"While exploring the Barbican route and visiting local churches, we spotted this synagogue on our map and made an unplanned stop, hoping for a quick glimpse inside. From the outside, the building is remarkably unassuming, blending quietly into the historic street with nothing to hint at the treasure within.
The synagogue wasn't officially open to the public, but as cleaning was underway, we asked if we might peek inside for just a moment. What happened next transformed our entire afternoon. Not only were we welcomed warmly, but Jerry, the custodian, offered us a complete tour that stretched well beyond an hour. His storytelling weaves together the history of Plymouth's Jewish community with the broader narrative of the city itself, creating a fascinating tapestry of local history that I never expected to discover.
Jerry is an absolutely amazing person and a gifted storyteller who brings centuries of history to life with warmth, humor, and incredible knowledge. The interior of the synagogue is genuinely beautiful, a stark contrast to its modest exterior, with Georgian architectural details and a stunning gilded Torah ark. It's heartbreaking to learn that only a handful of members remain to maintain this historic space.
If you're in Plymouth and have any interest in history, architecture, or simply hearing extraordinary stories told by someone who genuinely loves what they do, I cannot recommend this visit highly enough. Call ahead to book a tour with Jerry and set aside at least two hours for the experience. This unplanned detour became the unexpected highlight of our day in Plymouth.
Jerry - We can't thank you enough!
Toda Raba"
Sam Aberman
"The synagogue in Plymouth is the most welcoming place of worship I have ever been to and I’ve been to many.
Jerry is the custodian and has a wealth of knowledge regarding its history and is always happy to give a tour. I highly recommend a visit."
Jurgen Brunati
"A beautiful synagoge. Grateful and happy for the warm welcome and the opportunity (after a phone call to Jerry) to admire the synagogue and attend a bit of the service. The Hebrew is beautiful. The still small community welcomes everyone and a helping hand will be most welcome. With few people and resources, the externally inconspicuous synagogue is kept so beautiful."
Charlotte Dorren
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plymouth Synagogue is located on the historic Barbican route in Plymouth. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the waterfront area. Parking may be available nearby, but it's best to check local parking regulations for the Barbican.
Yes, the synagogue is situated on the Barbican, a historic waterfront area known for its maritime heritage, shops, and restaurants. It's a great addition to a day exploring Plymouth's historic sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always open for casual drop-ins, you can arrange a visit by booking a tour with the custodian, Jerry. It's highly recommended to call ahead to schedule your visit.
The synagogue's opening hours can vary as it's a functional place of worship. The best way to visit is to contact Jerry, the custodian, to arrange a guided tour.
There isn't a fixed admission fee, but it's a place maintained by a small community. Tours with Jerry are highly recommended, and visitors are encouraged to support the synagogue.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a beautiful sanctuary with Georgian architectural details and a stunning gilded Torah ark. The history of Plymouth's Jewish community is also a significant part of the experience.
Photography policies can vary. It's always best to ask Jerry, the custodian, for permission before taking pictures inside the synagogue to ensure respect for the sacred space.
Yes, Plymouth Synagogue is a functional synagogue, though it has a small remaining community. Visitors are welcomed warmly and can learn about its ongoing history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The synagogue is located on the Barbican, which is bustling with various cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a range of dining options. You'll find plenty of choices for lunch or a snack nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers a glimpse of its historic integration into the Barbican streetscape. Inside, the gilded Torah ark and Georgian details are particularly photogenic, but always ask permission before shooting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Culture Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Custodian's Story: Jerry's Insight
Jerry's deep knowledge spans centuries, covering traditions, migrations, and even the synagogue's survival through wartime.
Architectural Beauty and Historical Significance
The centerpiece of the interior is the stunning gilded Torah ark, a testament to the craftsmanship and devotion of the community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit