Plymouth Naval Memorial

The Plymouth Naval Memorial stands on The Hoe, a broad promenade in the centre of Plymouth. It overlooks Plymouth Sound and the waters where many of those commemorated once sailed. The memorial is a large stone obelisk surrounded by panels that bear the names of sailors. These names are arranged by year of death, then by service, rank and surname. The First World War panels are fixed to the base of the obelisk, while those for the Second World War are set into the surrounding wall. It is worth the journey because the memorial recognises 7,251 sailors from the First World War and 15,933 from the Second World War. The design was led by Sir Edward Maufe after the Second World War, with sculpture by Charles Wheeler and William McMillan. The memorial also includes names of sailors from Australia, South Africa and India. It is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and has Grade I listed status. A runaway barrage balloon once struck the globe at the top, leaving a dent that remains visible. Visitors find a quiet space for reflection beside the obelisk and panels. The central obelisk rises above the surrounding walls, making the names easy to read in clear daylight. The panels are arranged so that each year’s losses can be traced in sequence. Names such as Lieutenant Cecil Abercrombie and Able Seaman Walter Sidebottom are among those recorded. The view across Plymouth Sound links the memorial to the sea it honours.