Visit to Plymouth Orthodox Synagogue (Bideford Branch)

A visit to Plymouth Orthodox Synagogue and the old Jewish Cemetery on the Hoe.

In 1734 there were a handful of Jews in Exeter who maintained ad hoc religious services. A Jewish community was present in Plymouth by the mid-18th century. The members were immigrants, primarily from the German lands and the Netherlands. By 1745 there were sufficient Jews in Plymouth to hold regular services, though they did not have their own Synagogue until 1762.

This is the oldest Ashkenazi Synagogue still in regular use in the English speaking world. Custodian of the Synagogue, Jerry Sibley, will be the host and guide for our visit to this historic Grade II* listed building.

Doors open at 1030. Welcome tea/coffee available on arrival.

1130–1145. Once everyone is ready we start the tour of the Synagogue.

1330–1430. Lunch at ‘The Treasury Bar and Restaurant’ next door to the Synagogue (must be pre-booked to avoid delays).

1445. Meet at the Vestry of the Synagogue then walk to the cemetery with a history talk on the way.

1530. Leave the cemetery.

1545. Return to the vestry for the audio and coffee/tea.

1630. Finish.

Note that the times have been altered from those originally published to allow more time for people to travel to the venue.

Places are open to all members and guests of the Devonshire Association and will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis. The event will be free to members. However, please be aware Jerry does the tours in his own time, unpaid and it would be appreciated if you would leave a donation towards the upkeep of the Synagogue.

Advance booking is essential as numbers will be limited. Please contact the Organiser before 25th July – he will be able to advise suggested details of travel and parking and will take bookings for lunch on request. All costs must be settled by participants and not the Association.