Plymouth Synagogue

About

The Plymouth Synagogue – the oldest surviving Ashkenazi congregation building in the English‑speaking world – stands on Catherine Street in Devon’s historic capital. Founded in the 1740s, the congregation moved from private homes to a purpose‑built synagogue completed in 1764, and the single‑room, white‑washed brick structure has been a quiet place of worship for almost three centuries. Designated a Grade II* listed building in 1954, it is prized for its modest yet elegant architecture, including a remarkable Baroque Torah Ark that rises two storeys and houses carved Ten Commandments tablets. Today the synagogue welcomes visitors of all backgrounds, offering a unique glimpse into the Jewish heritage of England and a serene setting for reflection and learning about the city’s rich multicultural past.

Highlights

• Historic 18th-Century Synagogue
• Grade II* Listed Building
• Architectural Significance
• Cultural Landmark

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes