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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Plymouth, England

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Plymouth, in the beautiful English county of Devon, is one of Britain's largest seaports and naval bases. As such, it ranks as the country's most historically significant ports. It was here, just off the coast of Plymouth, that the English navy defeated the Spanish Armada, marking the beginning of the country's rise as a world power.

Situated at the mouth of the River Tamar, the boundary between Devon and Cornwall, Plymouth is now a sizeable city that includes Stonehouse and Devonport. For visitors, this means there are many great attractions to visit and fun things to do nearby.

Bordered by a rocky and sometimes steep shoreline interspersed with sheltered beach areas suitable for swimming, this attractive coastal city is nestled between hills that reach down to the adjoining bays. Surrounding woodlands and meadows combine with extensive parks and gardens to give the city an open, attractive look.

Famous names connected with British maritime history, such as Sir Francis Drake and the Mayflower , are closely associated with this historic port. With the many cobbled streets and narrow alleyways of the Barbican waterfront area, as well as its wide seafront promenade, these and other major points of interest are easy to explore on foot.

As you put together your England travel itinerary, be sure to refer often to our list of the top attractions and things to do in Plymouth, England.

See also: Where to Stay in Plymouth

1. Take in the Views at Plymouth Hoe & Smeaton's Tower

2. visit historic saltram house, 3. have fun at the barbican waterfront, 4. explore the royal citadel, 5. take the kids to the national marine aquarium, 6. the mayflower museum and mayflower steps memorial, 7. plymouth city center, 8. tour the historic elizabethan house, 9. follow the heritage trail through historic devonport, 10. spend a night at crownhill fort, 11. take the ferry to mount edgcumbe country park in cornwall, 12. take a drive to cotehele house, 13. cotehele mill, 14. bridging the tamar visitor and learning centre, 15. visit the cornish town of saltash, where to stay in plymouth for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in plymouth, england, plymouth - climate chart.

Some of the finest views over the town and Plymouth Sound are to be had from Plymouth Hoe, often referred to as simply the Hoe. Spacious Hoe Park opened in 1817 and is traversed by the Promenade, and extends past Drake's Island as far as the lighthouse on Eddystone Rock, 14 miles away.

It's also where you'll find the Armada Monument , erected in 1888 and decorated with the coats of arms of the towns that helped in the struggle against the Spanish. The nearby massive Naval War Memorial is worth a look, as is the Sir Francis Drake Statue. Other memorials along the wide, paved Hoe Promenade include the Plymouth Naval Memorial, commemorating the lives of sailors from Britain and the Commonwealth who died in two world wars, and the Royal Air Force and Allied Air Forces monument.

Also in the Hoe, the upper part of Smeaton's Tower -parts of which were taken from the original 18th-century lighthouse once located offshore-is open as a viewing platform. Be prepared to tackle the 93 steps of the tower, including steep ladders, to the lantern room for the lovely views. If you're here in August, try to coincide a visit with the annual British Fireworks Championship , an event that draws huge crowds from across the country.

Be sure to also spend a little time wandering West Hoe Park , on the westernmost tip of the Hoe. It's popular with families for its kid-friendly rides and miniature railway.

Address: 4 Osborne Place, Plymouth, Devon, England

Saltram House, just three miles east of Plymouth, was begun by John Parker in 1750 and has seen little change since its construction. It is notable for its 14 paintings by Joshua Reynolds, who lived in nearby Plympton.

The artist liked staying at Saltram and painted portraits of the lord of the house and his family. The portrait of the artist himself dates from 1767 and hangs on the stairway, and is the work of Angelika Kaufmann. Also of interest are works by Rubens, Stubbs, American presidential painter Gilbert Stuart, and superb collections of porcelain.

After visiting the home's beautiful interior, be sure to spend time exploring its magnificent grounds, including the unspoiled woodlands and tranquil gardens. The views over Plymouth Sound are also worth checking out. Self-guided tours of the expansive grounds-crisscrossed by a network of hiking and biking trails-can be picked up when purchasing tickets.

Tours of the manor house are also available, and a café and tearoom are available for those wanting to linger longer.

Address: Saltram, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saltram

Known as the Barbican, Plymouth's historic harbor area is fun to explore on foot. Consisting of cobbled streets and scenic views over fishing boats and pleasure craft, it's also one of the city's most popular dining districts, with casual seafood kiosks rubbing shoulder with restaurants and eateries offering outdoor al fesco dining.

At Sutton Harbour, formerly known as Sutton Pool, pleasure ships offer fun excursions around the harbor and Plymouth Sound, and regular ferry services can whisk you away to other destinations across the city.

Of particular interest to American tourists is the Mayflower Museum covering the fascinating history of this famous vessel's voyage to the New World. You can also visit the nearby Mayflower Steps Memorial, the spot from which the Pilgrims are said to have embarked on their epic voyage.

A short distance away is a memorial commemorating the arrival of British aviators Alcock and Brown who, in 1919, became the first people to cross the Atlantic in a seaplane.

Other Barbican highlights include the National Marine Aquarium , the Barbican Theatre , the Plymouth Arts Centre , and countless shopping opportunities and restaurants. The Barbican is also the scene of numerous events, including concerts and food festivals.

Official site: www.barbicanwaterfront.com

The Royal Citadel was built on the site of an earlier fortification in the 17th century and remained the most important coastal defense in England for more than 100 years. The structure encompasses the site of an earlier fort built in the time of Sir Francis Drake.

It's still used by the military, so be sure to check tour availability for the attraction. Entry is via guided tours only, which must be booked in advance of your visit.

A highlight of a visit is the Royal Chapel of St. Katherine-upon-the-Hoe. Originally licensed for services in 1371, it was rebuilt over the centuries. A road runs around the citadel, affording excellent views, and a pleasant footpath can also be strolled.

Address: Lambhay Hill, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/royal-citadel-plymouth/

Located adjacent to the Barbican waterfront area, the National Marine Aquarium is the UK's largest aquarium and offers superb educational programs and displays. Exhibits cover the world's oceans, from the shores of England to Pacific coral reefs.

More than 70 sharks from 10 different species are housed here, along with small dogfish and large sand tiger sharks, all of them featuring in an excellent interactive dive show. An on-site restaurant offers views of exhibits or across Plymouth Sound, and there's a good-sized gift shop selling a variety of souvenirs.

Fun behind-the-scenes tours are available, as are a variety of daily talks about the facility's residents and other marine related matters. Other fun things to do include joining a "shark sleepover," including snacks and a unique chance to see these amazing creatures at night.

Also fun for the kids, the nearby Plym Valley Railway consists of preserved steam engines and rolling stock running on a 1.5-mile line.

Address: Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.national-aquarium.co.uk

While a big draw for tourists from the United States, the Mayflower Museum is also well worth a visit for those with an interest in Britain's rich naval history.

Located in the Barbican area and focusing on the remarkable journey made by America's founding fathers aboard the Mayflower , this first-rate museum commemorates Plymouth's important part in the epic journey undertaken by the Pilgrims to the New World. Highlights include the chance to try out period costumes, numerous fun interactive games, along with a scale model of the famous ship.

Afterwards, be sure to snap a photo of the Mayflower Steps Memorial , a historic gateway built in memory of the Pilgrim Fathers. These, and the museum, can be included in a number of fun walking tours of the Barbican and old town area.

Address: 3-5 The Barbican, Plymouth, Devon, England

Plymouth's bustling city center occupies the area around two broad avenues, Armada Way and Royal Parade , which adjoin Hoe Park to the north. Near St. Andrew's Church are the 15th-century Prysten House, the city's oldest home; the 16th-century Merchant's House, a Tudor building housing a museum of social history; and the beautiful Guildhall with its pretty little towers.

Opposite St. Andrew's is the Civic Centre , worth visiting for the viewing platform on the 14th floor, with its breathtaking views of the city, which on a clear day enables you to see as far as distant Dartmoor . On Derry's Cross is the famous Theatre Royal, with the Athenaeum Theatre next door.

You can find many things to do at the Plymouth Pavilions , a conference and leisure center with a swimming pool, wave-machine, and ice rink.

Finally, a little northwest of the city center is the Drake Circus Centre , a pedestrian zone with passageways of shops and restaurants. In addition to its great shopping and dining experiences, it's here you'll find the stunning " The Box ." Home to the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, this architectural gem is well worth seeing if not just for its design, but its exhibits relating to local art and history.

Address: St. Andrews Street, Plymouth, Devon, England

In the narrow cobbled streets of The Barbican, Plymouth's historic quarter centered around Sutton Harbour, you can see an excellent example of 16th-century architecture in the Elizabethan House on New Street.

Fitted out exactly as it would have been in Tudor times, it's a delight to explore. Fascinating displays lead you through the building's rich history as a boarding house over the centuries, from its construction right through to the humble lodgings of its last tenants in the 1920s.

Also worth visiting are the neighboring Elizabethan Gardens and the 100-plus other listed historic attractions here. You should also visit nearby Southside Street, where you can see the remains of a 14th-century Dominican monastery.

Address: 17-19 New Street, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.theboxplymouth.com/outside-the-box/elizabethan-house/restoration

To the west of Plymouth city center, Devonport has many fine old Georgian and Regency houses. The Royal Dockyard, established in 1691 by William III, contains a memorial to polar explorer Robert Falcon Scott.

Born in Devonport in 1868, Scott died in 1912 on an expedition to the South Pole with his ship Discovery , now on display in Dundee. Gun Wharf, built in 1718, is also architecturally interesting.

The Devonport Heritage Trail is a great way to explore the area (particularly for hikers), while the more sedate Waterfront Walkway offers good sightseeing for all ages and abilities. Be sure to also visit the excellent Devonport Naval Heritage Centre, with its displays and exhibits relating to the city's historic dockyards.

Highlights include a former Royal Navy submarine, as well as the opportunity to tour the still operational naval base (tours need to be booked in advance).

Address: Vivid Approach, Off Granby Wy., Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, England

Crownhill Fort, built in the 1860s, is the largest and best preserved of Plymouth's ring of Victorian Forts. There are cannons and tunnels to explore, as well as ramparts and a massive dry moat, and you can take in numerous historic reenactments throughout the year. Guided tours are available.

For an unforgettable experience, look into booking one of the Fort's unique overnight stays. Offered in the former Officers' Quarters, these fully-furnished luxury suites contain separate bedrooms and full kitchens.

Address: Crownhill Fort Road, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: www.landmarktrust.org.uk/crownhill-fort

From Plymouth, there's a ferry service to Cremyll in Cornwall and the sprawling Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. Overlooking this huge parcel of land-the park in fact includes two villages, Kingsand and Cawsand-is Mount Edgcumbe House, a fine example of English 18th-century interior design.

Featured in the Oscar award-winning film, Sense and Sensibility , the house includes a large collection of period furniture and numerous fine paintings, including examples by Joshua Reynolds. Rare Chinese and English porcelain, as well as a unique collection of Bronze Age horns originating from Ireland, can also be viewed.

Be sure to spend time in the colorfully landscaped park, noted for its many European and exotic plant varieties. Other notable features include a number of follies, fortifications, and temples, most of which can be explored.

There are plenty of trails to explore, too, including a nine-mile section of the popular South West Coast Path and a long stretch of coastline. For those wanting to bed down for a night or two, a number of quaint cottages, along with a glamping site, can be booked.

Location: Cremyll, Torpoint, Cornwall, Devon, England

Official site: www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk

Located a pleasant 30-minute drive inland from Plymouth, Cotehele House is a National Trust property that should be added to your local travel itinerary. While records indicate a manor home existed on the site in the early 1300s, much of the splendid medieval building on display today was built in the late 15th century by the Edgcumbe family, who were also responsible for the already-mentioned Mount Edgcumbe House.

Notable among its many interesting features are the well-preserved outbuildings, its three charming chapels, plus a large collection of old furniture and tapestries. The picturesque 14-acre grounds are well worth exploring and back onto the River Tamar.

Highlights include a marine exhibit at the Cotehele Quay, along with a lovely tearoom, formal gardens, a tower, and a Victorian-era summerhouse.

Address: St. Dominick, Saltash, Devon, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele

When visiting Cotehele House, be sure to also check out the neighboring Cotehele Mill . This remarkably well-preserved water-powered mill demonstrates traditional milling methods that were once common before the arrival of steam power and electricity.

While the exact date it was built remains a bit of a mystery, it's believed to have been here in medieval times, and the current water wheel itself is known to have been added in the 1800s.

In addition to its working blacksmith shop and fascinating displays of old tools, you can still see local grain being ground just as it would have been centuries ago. Cotehele flour is also used in the wonderful baked goods you can sample here.

This attraction can get busy, so try to allow plenty of time in your schedule to wait a short period of time before getting in, but hey, it's an idyllic stream-side setting in which to spend some time.

Address: St. Dominick, Callington, Devon, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele-mill/features/explore-cotehele-mill

Devon's newest tourist attraction, and one of the top free things to do in Plymouth, the informative Bridging the Tamar Visitor and Learning Centre opened in 2019 and provides a fascinating look at the two major bridges crossing the River Tamar: the Tamar Bridge and the Royal Albert Bridge.

Built in the 1960s and the 1850s respectively, these two impressive structures stand side by side over the river, connecting Devon and Cornwall. Plymouth, on the east bank, is where the informative visitor center is located, while the Cornish town of Saltash is located on the west bank. Each bridge had a huge impact on the area when it opened.

Through informative, interactive displays and exhibits, the visitor center showcases the construction of both bridges, offering a fascinating glimpse into their history, as well as their operation. Workshops and guided behind-the-scenes tours are available.

Address: Pemros Road, St. Budeaux, Plymouth, Devon, England

Official site: https://bridgingtamar.wpengine.com

Often referred to as the "Gateway to Cornwall," the town of Saltash sits directly across from Plymouth on the west bank of the River Tamar. It's well worth taking the time to explore and is accessible via a short train ride-worth it for the chance to cross Isambard Kingdom Brunel's magnificent Royal Albert Bridge , built in 1859-or on the pedestrian and bike path that utilizes the modern Tamar Bridge.

Popular things to do once here include exploring the Saltash Waterside, the historic part of the town once known for its boat building workshops and trades that supported local fishermen. From here, you're able to access the historic Mary Newmans Cottage , built in 1480 and furnished with period furniture.

You'll also want to visit the fascinating Elliott's Shop , a grocery store that has remained unchanged since the 1970s. Many of its displays date even further back, as the store was established in 1903.

If time allows, hop aboard a pleasure boat ride along the Tamar. These fun excursions operate off the Saltash Pier .

Looking for somewhere good to stay during your time in Plymouth? We thoroughly recommend these delightful hotels located near sightseeing locations such as Plymouth Hoe and the Barbican historic quarter:

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxurious Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa is located in a magnificent old manor house in a picturesque countryside setting, just minutes from downtown Plymouth, and features an indoor heated pool and a wellness spa.
• Located waterside, Plum Holidays - Drake's Wharf offers luxury accommodations in a heritage naval building with upgraded décor and water views.
• Another unique experience located in a historic site, Rooms by Bistrot Pierre offers elegant accommodations in the heart of the magnificently restored Royal William Yard. Beautiful gardens, fine dining, a marina, and quiet walking trails are all just a short stroll away.
• Equally sumptuous, 1 Elliot Terrace features spacious suites with great views over Plymouth Hoe.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A favorite in the mid-range price category, the Invicta Hotel is a great family-run hotel in a convenient location with extremely friendly staff.
• The Grosvenor Plymouth is another excellent option and features affordable rates, a great location just steps from Plymouth Hoe, along with modern décor and a delicious free breakfast.
• The Crowne Plaza Plymouth is also worth checking availability at, and features quality rooms with superb views, all just steps away from Plymouth Hoe.

Budget Hotels :

• For the budget conscious, the Premier Inn Plymouth City Centre (Sutton Harbour) Hotel is a good choice, located near the National Marine Aquarium, all rooms (including the larger family rooms) feature tea and coffee makers.
• While a cut above the average in this category, The Duke of Cornwall Hotel is well worth looking into for its attractive setting and affordable rates.
• Also good, Rainbow Lodge offers B&B-style rooms with a great cooked breakfast included.

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City Slickers : The UK capital of London offers no end of fun things to do, from spectacular Buckingham Palace to the wonderful Covent Garden market area. Other destinations to include on your England travel itinerary include the university towns of Cambridge , home to gorgeous medieval architecture, and Oxford , famous for its old colleges and attractive old town center.

Country Folk : England also boasts no end of quaint smaller towns and charming countryside to explore. It's also home to excellent beaches , including the coast of Brighton , as well as the spectacular scenery in Cumbria's Lake District . There's even a little of the countryside to be enjoyed in London, especially in places like Hyde Park and Kew Gardens .

England Vacation Ideas : Popular vacation destinations in England include Bath , famous for its incredibly well-preserved old Romana Baths and splendid Georgian architecture. Nearby Bristol is another great place to visit, especially around its historic harbor area. Another important port is Southampton , which, like Plymouth, boasts many sea-faring and maritime-related attractions.

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Plymouth, England

Why we love Plymouth

Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth offers a seamless blend of maritime charm and natural beauty. It’s a cultural hub filled with award-winning museums and waterfront attractions. Dive into the depths of Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium, be immersed in the wonders of the National Marine Park and stroll through the cobbled streets of its picturesque old port, the Barbican. From discovering Pilgrim life aboard the Mayflower to embracing the natural world, there’s a wealth of adventure to be had in Plymouth.

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National Marine Aquarium

Dive into the UK’s largest aquarium in Plymouth for an underwater exploration like no other. Spy over 4000 sea creatures and take a watery journey through the world’s oceans, from the brisk Atlantic to the colourful Great Barrier Reef. For a full-on immersive experience, pick up a snorkel and head beneath the surface, or dine under the bubbles of the Eddystone and Atlantic Ocean exhibits.

Destination Plymouth

Catch your Cook at the Hook & Line

Set out from Royal William Yard for a foodie voyage like no other. You’ll be (hopefully) catching your own mackerel out at sea and returning to The Hook and Line to cook it up yourself. There may be opportunity to catch other fish as well, including the likes of herring, pollock and conger eel.

Plymouth Gin Distillery Tour

Take a tour of the oldest working gin distillery in England at Plymouth Gin’s historic Black Friars Distillery, a landmark building. Learn the ancient secrets of making gin, using the same recipe since 1793 and sample some of the many flavours of this ancient distillery in the Barbican, Plymouth. There are different types of tours to choose, then finish with a drink at the Refectory Bar.

Things to do in Plymouth

South west sup.

Pick up a paddle and take to the open water as you explore Plymouth’s coastline on a stand-up paddleboard.

Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre

Whether you’re a natural on the water, or wanting to try something new, make a splash at this activity centre.

Dartmoor Zoo

Hear the roar of lions, spot playful otters and cute capybaras as you explore this animal kingdom.

Mayflower Museum

Travel back in time with the exhibition which shares the story of the Mayflower, an English ship that carried the Pilgrims.

Destination Plymouth/Dom Moore

Gaia Spa, Boringdon Hall

Take time out in one of the country’s top spas, in the grounds of Boringdon Hall hotel near Plymouth. With stunning hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms and saunas, this adults-only space is total bliss.

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Devon, England

Plymouth Hoe and Smeaton’s Tower

Look out across Plymouth Sound and visit the iconic lighthouse alongside shoreside views.

Plymouth Sound National Marine Park

Visit the UK’s first National Marine Park that brings together water sports, maritime history, and a whole host of events.

Pennywell Farm

Meet the farmyard animals of the city with rides, play areas, pig racing and more for all the family!

Featured things to do

On the water with Plymouth Boat Trips

Whether it’s a scenic cruise past Drakes Island, a romantic sunset sail, or a journey out to Tamar Valley, there’s a whole host of ways to see Plymouth and beyond from its waters.

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Swim at shoreside Tinside Lido

You’ll be making a splash in a unique location at this art-deco style lido that comes with impressive sea views. Relax on the sun desk before taking a dip in the saltwater pool.

Explore culture at The Box

One for the creatives, the art-fiends and culture lovers, visit the museum and art gallery for exhibitions, galleries, and collections.

Feel theatrical at the Theatre Royal Plymouth

It’s all centre stage at the Theatre Royal. Sit back and enjoy the show as actors take the limelight in a play, musical, opera and more. Look out for festive shows during December.

Places to stay in Plymouth

City centre.

Filled with internationally recognised hotel brands, restored historic buildings and budget-friendly options, a stay in Plymouth’s city centre is a must for all culture vultures.

The Waterfront

From the renowned Royal William Yard to the cobbled streets of the Barbican, the Waterfront is the perfect blend of history and vibrant city living.  

Tamar Valley

Escape into the wild with a stay in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From farm stays, camping and rooms in countryside homes, there’s something for everyone.

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Cornwall and the isles of scilly.

Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

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Dartmoor and Exmoor

With tangled oak forests and looming peaks, it can feel like the edge of the world.

King Charles III England Coast Path

A masterpiece in the making, filled with beaches, clifftops, cities and nature.

South West Coast Path/Roy Curtis

Getting to Plymouth

Located in southwest England, the port city of Plymouth sits on the south coast of Devon. Plymouth is easily accessible by road, rail, ferry, and air.

Bristol Airport is the nearest major international flight hub, connecting to more than 100 destinations. Brittany Ferries also serve the city from France and Spain. Train services from London to Plymouth via Great Western Railway take around three hours, while Stagecoach offers connections to surrounding areas, including Bristol Airport and Exeter. Flixbus also operates a route between Plymouth and London.

Getting around

Exploring the city and beyond by foot is a great way to see the sights at your own pace.

Plymouth’s Waterlinks have taxis and ferries that run to areas including the Mayflower Steps.

Bike and scooter hire provide a different way to get in some sightseeing. Download the Plymouth Cycle Map as a handy guide.

Want to know more?

Head to Visit Plymouth for insider tips on Plymouth from those in the know.

Top Things to Do in Plymouth, Devon - Plymouth Must-See Attractions

Things to do in plymouth, explore popular experiences, tours in and around plymouth.

Devon Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

Private Group Escape Room Experience in Plymouth

South West Coast Path Walking South Devon Coastline (9 days, 8 nights)

Mayflower 400 Eddystone Lighthouse Trip

eBike Guided Historic Waterfront Tour - Plymouth

Plymouth Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK

Downhill Off-road eScooter Experience

Dartmoor Tour in Luxury Mercedes 7 x seater

Agatha Christie walking tour - the story of her extraordinary life

Doc Martin Tour in Port Isaac, Cornwall

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Plymouth

Other Top Attractions around Plymouth

Walking & Biking Tours

Outdoor Activities

What travellers are saying.

• Plymouth Gin Distillery
• Saltram (National Trust)
• The Barbican
• Theatre Royal Plymouth
• Plymbridge Woods
• Plymouth Sound
• Saltram Gardens (National Trust)
• Plym Valley Cycle Trail
• Plymouth Synagogue
• Barbican Theatre
• Naval Memorial

The Top Things to Do in Plymouth, England

When the Pilgrims set off on their epic trans-Atlantic voyage 400 years ago, it was only by chance that the port of Plymouth, England, was their final point of departure from the Old World. Originally, they’d set off from Southampton with two ships, but 300 miles out to sea, the Speedwell, their second ship, began leaking so badly they were forced to turn back, hoping ship builders in Plymouth could make the vessel once again seaworthy. But when they learned the Speedwell couldn’t be saved, as many of the Pilgrims as possible crowded aboard the Mayflower and set off again. 

This year the Mayflower 400 celebration taking place in both the Old World and the New will see many visitors paying call at the various places throughout the United Kingdom associated with the Pilgrims, including the tiny villages in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire many of them came from. Plymouth, right on the border of Devon and Cornwall, two of England’s most beautiful counties, will likely be a major attraction. Here are the musts of what to see and do both in and near Plymouth.

Amble Through the Barbican

Plymouth was nearly leveled by German bombers during World War II, but by great good fortune, little damage occurred to the Barbican, the warren of ancient streets near the harbor with more cobbled streets than any other city in England. The area still contains many buildings the Pilgrims would have known. Two of them, the Island House and the Elizabethan House, are likely places where they lodged while awaiting to learn the fate of the Speedwell. A new museum offers interactive exhibits inside the Elizabethan House, and don’t miss the lovely hidden garden behind it. On the water’s edge, the monumental Mayflower Steps also have been recently restored. Since this area was out in the harbor in 1620, it’s not possible the Pilgrims would have descended these stairs to board the ship. A popular local legend maintains, however, that the actual steps they used were covered over a century and a half later by a structure now housing the Admiral MacBride, a charming English pub, with the original stairway supposedly buried underneath.

Take a Harbor Cruise

Plymouth’s harbor, which separates the English counties of Devon and Cornwall, is one of the finest in the world. It’s also the point where Sir Francis Drake, Captain Cook, and Charles Darwin all began their historic voyages and where many of the Titanic’s survivors returned. Today, hourlong cruises are available from Plymouth Boat Tours that explore the city’s highlights visible from the water, as well as passing by mighty warships and nuclear submarines moored at the Royal Navy Dockyard. Themed cruises offered by the company include Pirate Adventures, as well as jazz and sunset tours. Harbor ferries transport visitors to the Cornwall side of the harbor to Mount Edgecombe Country Park, where an elegant estate house and formal gardens can be seen, or to the twin Cornish villages of Cawsand and Kingsand, quaint towns with a history of smuggling in their past. Deep sea fishing expeditions depart from the harbor, and opportunities for paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, and scuba diving are also available.

Sample Gin with a Mayflower Connection

The oldest working gin distillery in England, Plymouth Gin established the spirit as a nobleman’s drink and for centuries was the supplier for officers in the Royal Navy. Made with pure soft water from nearby Dartmoor National Park and with a proprietary blend of botanicals, the company’s gin products are all made in a Victorian-era still that can be viewed during the popular 40-minute tours. And Plymouth Gin has its own unique connection to the Mayflower also. Originally constructed as a monastery dating to the 1430s, the structure currently has a swanky upstairs cocktail lounge, a long room with magnificent soaring ceilings that was once the refectory where the monks took their meals. It’s also the room where it’s commonly believed the Pilgrims had their final meal before setting off to the New World the next morning—a list of all 102 Mayflower passengers is emblazoned on the wall. Don’t leave before picking up a recipe for the “Mayflower Martini” in the gift shop.

Sample Local Eats

A diversity of culinary choices makes dining in Plymouth an adventure. Seafood is of course abundant with menu choices at the many restaurants lining the harbor including local fish like whiting, sprat, and plaice. The Barbican’s historic Jacka Bakery, established in 1597, now prepares artisanal bread, pastries, and cakes, but in 1620 they supplied the Pilgrims with the hardtack carried on the Mayflower—it can still be ordered online. Be sure to sample Cornish pasties, savory pies filled with meats and vegetables shaped into a semi-circle with crimped edges. Partaking in a Devon Cream Tea, an afternoon ritual of drinking tea and munching on scones covered with clotted cream and jam, shouldn’t be missed. The folks in Devon insist the jam be placed atop the cream, while in neighboring Cornwall it’s the other way around. Try both ways at the Tudor Rose Tea Room or at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, where the elegant “Tea at the Top” also offers scenic views from the hotel’s highest floors.

Park Yourself in the Hoe

Think of the Hoe as Plymouth’s Central Park. Sitting adjacent to an imposing 17th-century fortress, the Royal Citadel, the Hoe’s wide expanses high above the harbor offer spectacular views. Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake looked out on the passing Spanish Armada from here as he enjoyed a game of lawn bowling. Even better views can be had from atop Smeaton’s Tower, a beloved red-and-white striped lighthouse. Elsewhere in the park are an impressive Naval War Memorial; the Tinside Lido, an Art Deco saltwater swimming pool; and “The Beatle Bums,” an art installation on the very spot where the Fab Four sat and had a famous photo taken of them when they visited Plymouth in 1963. For two days in August, the Hoe will host the British Fireworks Championships.

Get Close to Sharks

Just steps from the Barbican, the National Marine Aquarium offers “fin for everyone” inside the United Kingdom’s largest aquarium. With more than 4,000 aquatic animals in four separate zones, the main focus is on the waters near Plymouth Sound, the British coast, and the Atlantic Ocean, but a section called “Blue Planet” offers brightly colored fish from the Great Barrier Reef and elsewhere in the world. Only a plate of glass separates viewers from sharks, green turtles, barracudas and rays swimming in huge tanks that visitors walk both through and under. VIP Behind-the-Scenes tours are offered as well as daily talks and shows like “Meet the Sharks” and “Dive Show.”

Shop for Local Wares

Shoppers in Plymouth can choose from the Drake Circus Shopping Mall in the center city with more than 70 of the United Kingdom’s top brand names, or they can hop on a ferry from the Barbican to go to the Royal William Yard, a former naval provisions storage facility that’s been repurposed into a home for restaurants, art galleries, and shops like independent clothing boutiques. Open air events like live music are offered as well as rotating art exhibitions, and the Ocean Studios located at the Yard is a creative hub where you can be paired with local makers to fashion your own ceramics, jewelry, and mosaics. Many of the centuries-old buildings lining the streets of the Barbican now house unique shops, including The House that Jack Built, a quirky arcade with meandering passageways complete with water fountains and witches and gnomes rotating on poles. Shops range from purveyors of handmade chocolates to vintage fashions. There’s even a resident tarot card reader!

Think Inside “The Box”

A new cultural hot spot for Plymouth that opened in the spring of 2020 is called The Box, which brings together local archives, natural history exhibits (including a “Mammoth Gallery”), contemporary art, and temporary exhibits like “Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy” that has been created in cooperation with hundreds of museums, libraries, and archives in the U.S., U.K, and elsewhere, as well as the Wampanoag tribe of Native Americans in Massachusetts. Objects and images in the exhibition will take a look at early English colonization efforts in North America while at the same time detailing the lives of the Mayflower’s passengers, showing the political and religious contexts for their journey. The 18-month exhibition will extend until September of 2021. Another traveling exhibit, “Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America,” will be highlighted with a new wampum belt pieced together by the Wampanoags that will travel throughout England and be on display in Plymouth from September 5 to October 24.

Take a Hike

For those who enjoy long walks, the entire region of Devon and Cornwall offers a multitude of options. The 630-mile Southwest Coastal Path along the shores of both counties offers stupendous views in many places, and although the nine miles of it passing through Plymouth are largely urban, a good sampling of it can be had by taking the ferry across the harbor to Mount Edgecumbe, exploring its gardens, then setting off on the coastal path to the twin Cornish towns of Cawsand and Kingsand with their charming pubs, restaurants, and shops. Just east of Plymouth, a total of 40 walks through defined “Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty” are suggested by the organization South Devon Explorer. Spot peregrine falcons on the Plym Valley Trail, described as a green corridor connecting Plymouth to Dartmoor National Park. And organized walking tours inside Plymouth itself include one offered by Devon and Cornwall Tour Guides that gives a good overview of the Pilgrims’ story including colorful tales like the one concerning young Pilgrim John Howland, who was swept overboard but saved. In the New World, he fathered 10 children to become the ancestor of millions of Americans, including both President Bushes.

Dart Over to Dartmouth

Further east along Devon’s coast lies another enticing destination with a Pilgrim connection. The charming town of Dartmouth was actually the first town where the Pilgrims’ two ships stopped after the Speedwell started taking on water. Several days were spent there making repairs, to no avail since the Pilgrims were forced to turn back once again, this time to Plymouth, where the Speedwell was finally declared unfit for travel. Take a walk through the narrow, picturesque streets of Dartmouth with Les Ellis, the “Town Crier,” dressed in red, blue, and gold with a tunic, waistcoat, breeches, and a tricorn hat with an ostrich feather in it.

An absolute must-see in the area is Greenway, Agatha Christie’s holiday home, easily accessible by an old-time steam train from Dartmouth. Family furniture and artifacts fill the house, including the piano Agatha played (but only when no one was listening) and relics from digs found on trips to the Middle East she made with her archaeologist husband. The extensive and heavily wooded gardens outside contain 2,700 species of trees and plants, and a steep path down to the river transports visitors to the boathouse, scene of the crime in Christie’s "Dead Man’s Folly." Afterwards, take the ferry on the River Dart back to Dartmouth, passing the huge Mayflower Tree, where a local legend maintains the Pilgrims worshipped during their time in Dartmouth.

Enjoy the Wide Open Spaces at Dartmoor

Imagine an area the size of London but with more sheep than people. That describes Dartmoor National Park with its stunning vistas of hilly woodlands and heather-covered moors, punctuated by 160 rocky granite outcrops called tors that are perfect for rock climbers of all abilities. England’s highest waterfall is here, as well as the largest concentration of Bronze Age ruins in the country, including stone rows, circles, and round houses. Dartmoor is both beautiful and eerie at one and the same—it’s the place where Sherlock Holmes went in quest of the supernatural “Hound of the Baskervilles.” Recreational possibilities abound, including hiking and horseback riding where you can watch wild ponies and their foals from your own tamer steed. Tours to Dartmoor by Select Southwest Tours and Unique Devon tours are regularly scheduled or can be arranged privately, and the adventurous can rent bicycles or even get a bird’s eye view of the whole 400-square-mile park from a hot air balloon!

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17 of the Best Things to do in Plymouth, UK

• Last Updated 29 February 2024

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An in-depth guide to the best things to do in and near Plymouth in Devon, England.

Devon’s largest city, Plymouth’s rich maritime heritage has earned it the nickname of “The Ocean City”.

The moniker is well deserved, especially when you consider that some of history’s most famous voyages set sail from here. Among them were the Mayflower Pilgrims – bound for the “New World” in 1620 – Captain James Cook’s explorations in the late 1700s, and Sir Francis Drake’s famous circumnavigation of the globe in 1577-80.

Sitting on the sheltered Plymouth Sound (a deep inlet in south Devon ) between the Rivers Plym and the Cornwall-bordering Tamar, and still home to the largest Naval Base in Europe… Plymouth is well and truly a port city.

I’ve lived on the south coast of England all my life – and have visited Plymouth more times than I can count! My brother lived there for several years, so I like to think I know the city pretty well by now.

Below, you’ll find my local’s guide to all the best things to do in Plymouth and the surrounding area. Enjoy…

Shortlist: Things to do if you Only Have one Day in Plymouth

1. soak up sea views and history at plymouth hoe, 2. unpack plymouth’s history at the box, 3. sutton harbour and the barbican, 4. take a tour of plymouth gin distillery, 5. take a dip at tinside lido, 6. meet local sea life at the national marine aquarium, 7. take the ferry to mount edgcumbe, 8. eat your way around plymouth market, 9. discover naval history at the royal citadel, 10. explore royal william yard, 11. make a splash with these plymouth sound watersports, 12. step back in time at saltram house, 13. go rockpooling at wembury, 14. visit francis drake’s home at buckland abbey, 15. discover devon’s mining history at morwellham quay and tamar valley, 16. scenic train ride from plymouth to gunnislake, 17. go wild in dartmoor national park, map of things to do in plymouth, plymouth festivals and events.

If you’re short on time – here’s   a quick list of the can’t-miss attractions in Plymouth.  You’ll find more info on each one in the next section.

• Plymouth Hoe – clifftop park with brilliant sea views.
• Tinside Lido – 1930s, Art Deco outdoor swimming pool.
• Explore the historic neighbourhood of The Barbican and Sutton Harbour. Don’t miss the Mayflower Steps – a memorial to the Mayflower pilgrims.
• Visit the home of Plymouth Gin at Black Friars Distillery for a tour and tasting.
• Discover an underwater world at the National Marine Aquarium.
• Take a scenic harbour cruise (from £11 – click here to check prices )

11 Fun Things to Do in Plymouth

Plymouth Hoe – usually simply called The Hoe – is one of the top things to do in the city. It’s a clifftop park with fabulous views over the Plymouth Sound and out to the English Channel.

As well as being a lovely place for a stroll or a picnic, The Hoe is also home to several monuments and sights that attest to Plymouth’s long history as a seafaring city and vital naval base.

You can’t miss Smeaton’s Tower , an iconic red and white lighthouse which was built on Eddystone Reef in 1759 and moved to The Hoe in the 1880s. Nearby stands the towering Plymouth Naval Memorial, which commemorates the fallen sailors of WWI and WWII who have no known grave. Plymouth played a key role as an embarkation point for the WWII D-Day landings, so be sure to pay your respects at the memorial.

Don’t miss Francis Drake…

There’s also a statue of Sir Francis Drake in The Hoe – the former mayor of Plymouth and one of the city’s most famous sons. Drake is a complicated British hero, as he was both a famed explorer and a privateer (legalised pirate). He’s celebrated for being the second person (and the first Brit) to circumnavigate the globe. But as a privateer, Drake frequently raided Spanish colonies in the Americas (backed by Queen Elizabeth I).

Drake was also a hero of the Spanish Armada in 1588 – although his piracy was most likely a large contributing factor in Spain’s attack. The story goes that Drake was playing bowls in The Hoe when news of the armada’s approach was brought to him, but cooly replied there was time to “finish the game and lick the Spaniards too”.

A relatively new addition to Plymouth, The Box is a shining example of the city’s recent cultural regeneration.

The Box is a fantastic, state-of-the-art museum and art gallery that delves into the many layers of Plymouth’s past – and present-day – history.

The building itself is a stunning piece of architecture: combining the former museum, library, and St Luke’s Church buildings with brand new grey-and-glass cubic architecture to create an epic museum space at the heart of the city’s new Cultural Quarter.

Admission is free and the award-winning museum is a fascinating insight into Plymouth’s heritage and culture. The permanent exhibits highlight the story of Plymouth and its role as England’s “Ocean City”. Don’t miss the “100 Journeys” exhibit to learn more about the famous voyages that have set out from Plymouth over the centuries.

There’s also a great programme of temporary art exhibitions, workshops, and other events – so be sure to check what’s on during your visit.

Two very different sides of Plymouth’s personality can be found on either side of Sutton Harbour.

Like much of Plymouth, the harbour was heavily bombed during WWII – but mercifully, a small pocket of the most historic streets survived. Known as The Barbican, this neighbourhood is a tangle of cobbled streets lined with crooked buildings and boutique shops. Don’t miss the timber-clad Elizabethan House – dating from 1599 – on New Lane.

It’s from Sutton Harbour that the Pilgrim Fathers set sail (for the third and final time) on board the Mayflower in 1620, heading for America and the “New World”. The Mayflower Steps Memorial marks the approximate spot they sailed from, and the nearby Mayflower Museum delves into the story of the voyage (and what came next).

Just around the corner, the Barbican’s former fish quay has been redeveloped into a trendy waterfront area with luxurious flat buildings alongside lots of bars and restaurants. It’s a great spot to enjoy a meal or a few drinks with a view of the water.

If you love gin, you need to visit Black Friar’s Distillery – the home of Plymouth Gin – while you’re in town.

In fact, even if you don’t love gin, you should probably head there anyway just to see inside one of Plymouth’s oldest buildings. The upstairs Refectory Bar is set within a medieval hall with a hull-shaped timber roof built in 1431!

Originally a monastery (hence the name) Black Friar’s Distillery is the oldest working gin distillery in England . This atmospheric building has been the home of Plymouth Gin since 1793 – and once supplied the Royal Navy with a supposedly-medicinal Naval Strength gin.

You can visit for a tour and gin tasting, or simply pop into the bar for a drink. Tours start from £15pp and booking in advance is advised.

Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Tinside Lido is one of the most popular things to do in Plymouth. This is an Art Deco outdoor saltwater swimming pool and sundeck on the waterfront below Plymouth Hoe, with exceptional views of The Sound. The stunning pool was built in 1935 and is still one of the city’s most beloved summertime attractions.

Top Tip: Booking in advance is recommended as the Lido can be very popular in summer. The pool is open seasonally, usually from the end of May to the end of September.

Right beside Sutton Harbour, the National Marine Aquarium is the UK’s largest aquarium. This is one of the most popular attractions in Plymouth – especially for families with young kids.

Explore a multi-level aquarium, where huge tanks are home to marine life from England and around the globe. The highlight is the vast Atlantic Ocean exhibit – the deepest tank in the UK, holding a whopping 2.5 million litres of water, along with green turtles, rays, and several shark species. Don’t miss it.

The aquarium is run by the Ocean Conservation Trust, so ticket sales help fund conservation and research projects.

Hop aboard a Plymouth Boat Trips ferry to reach the manor house and country park at Mount Edgcumbe – just across the River Tamar in Cornwall!

This charming country park sits on the Rame Peninsula; the easternmost part of the Cornish Coast. It was first built in the 1500s, restored after WWII, and is set within Grade-1-listed gardens on a sprawling 865-acre Country Park. There are plenty of walking trails to explore the picturesque parkland.

Be sure to visit the manor house – which is filled with treasures collected by the Earls of Mount Edgcumbe over the centuries.

The ferry service runs from the Barbican to Royal William Yard (see entry number 10), then on to Cremyll Quay at Mount Edgcumbe. You can also take the direct Cremyll Ferry from Admirals Hard in the west of Plymouth.

There’s been a market in Plymouth since 1253. Today’s indoor Pannier Market was opened in 1959 in the city’s West End – and it’s currently undergoing a bit of a revival.

At its core, the traditional market remains – but with more and more food stalls popping up, there’s also a trendy food court vibe bringing in new clientele. Be sure to swing by a few of these fab food stalls…

• Maurish – home-cooked Mauritian food
• Taste of Thailand
• Soul Food – Caribbean food and rum cocktails.
• @kitchen – Plymouth’s #1 place to eat on TripAdvisor
• Everest Flavours – authentic Nepalese street food snacks
• Tara’s Persian Food
• KIKU –  authentic Japanese food, including sushi and bento

At the eastern end of The Hoe, the Royal Citadel is a sprawling 17th-century fortress. It was built during the  Dutch Wars  (1664-67) to protect Sutton Harbour from potential attack.

Unusually, the fort’s guns could also fire on the town itself. It’s thought these may have been installed due to Plymouth’s support for the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War (1642-52)

The Royal Citadel is still in use by the military today, so there are strict security requirements and you can only visit on a guided tour. Fans of military history won’t want to miss this one!

A former Victorian naval yard, Royal William Yard has undergone a huge regeneration. Today, the historic waterfront warehouses and naval buildings have been repurposed to create a vibrant new neighbourhood filled with homes, restaurants, bars, galleries, shops, and more.

It’s within easy reach of the city centre by car, but parking can be limited. Instead, you can take a bus or bike – or even hop aboard the ferry from the Barbican, operated by Plymouth Boat Trips.

Plymouth sits on the Plymouth Sound: a deep inlet on the south coast protected by two long peninsulas where the rivers Plym and Tamar meet the English Channel.

Known locally as The Sound, the sheltered waters provide ideal conditions for watersports such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• Plymouth Sailing School – various sailing and boating lessons
• Mount Batten Watersports – SUP and kayaking lessons.
• Southwest SUP – paddleboarding lessons, tours, and board hire in Royal William Yard.

Don’t miss a visit to Saltram House while you’re in Plymouth. Just on the edge of the city, in Plympton, this stunning, white manor house is full of history. It’s also surrounded by some of the nicest gardens in Devon and makes a lovely break from the bustle of the city centre.

Fans of Jane Austen may well recognise the property! Saltram House starred as Norland Park in the 1995 film adaptation of Sense and Sensibility.

5 Things to do NEAR Plymouth

READ MORE: 21 Best Places to Visit in Devon

Escape the city for a while and head to Wembury Beach – a small, shingle cove within easy day trip distance of Plymouth. It’s set within the South Devon AONB, so the beach and village are surrounded by picturesque countryside.

The beach is also known as one of the best rock pooling spots in Southwest England. While you’re there, be sure to have a peep into the clear waters of the rockpools in search of marine life – and don’t miss the beachside Wembury Marine Centre to learn more about the area’s marine- and beach-life.

Fancy a walk? Follow the South West Coast Path from Wembury Beach to Wembury Point on the River Yealm – enjoying some fab coastal views along the way. You can return inland through the village to create a circular hike.

About 20 minutes drive from Plymouth, Buckland Abbey is the former home of the city’s most famous son: Sir Francis Drake. As mentioned above, Drake was a British explorer and a hero of the Spanish Armada – but was also a privateer who was seen by the Spanish as a pirate.

The house is a 700-year-old Cistercian abbey with a rich history. It was built in 1278, and converted into a grand estate in the 1540s by Sir Richard Grenville – another privateer and explorer – before being sold to Drake in 1581.

Inside, you can learn more about Drake’s history – and about life in general in Elizabethan England. Be sure to take a walk through the beautiful gardens and surrounding estate as well.

Just north of Plymouth, the Tamar Valley is a rolling, tranquil landscape and another of Devons AONBs.

It’s hard to picture today, but this scenic valley was once a heavily industrial area. Over one hundred mines once littered the landscape, with the copper, tin, and other ores loaded onto boats on the River Tamar for transportation.

Head to Morwellham Quay to learn more. Once one of the busiest mining quays on the Tamar, today it’s a living museum. You can explore Victorian cottages and shops, meet local characters, and even take a ride on an underground Mine Train.

If you want to see more of the valley, head for the Tamar Trails Centre , where you’ll find numerous walking and biking trails. Many follow old mineral transport systems through the area. There’s also the Drake’s Trail , a long-distance cycle route from the stannary town of Tavistock, down through the Tamar and Plym valleys to Plymouth.

Another great way to enjoy the Tamar Valley’s rolling landscapes is to take the train from Plymouth to Gunnislake. The Tamar Valley Branch Line is known for its exceptional views and makes a lovely excursion.

It’s only a 40-minute journey, so it makes for a very easy day trip. The highlight is the crossing of the 120-foot-high Calstock Viaduct. If you have time, hop off in Calstock for a view of the viaduct itself, then board the next train to reach Gunnislake.

Plymouth is the perfect jumping-off point for the wilds of Dartmoor National Park . Often called one of the last true wildernesses of England, the dramatic – and at times bleak – landscapes of the high moors form an epic backdrop for day trips.

Abounding with hiking and biking trails – as well as bridleways – there are plenty of ways to explore Dartmoor. You can also book climbing lessons in Dartmoor’s rocky quarries and gorges, or try your hand at caving.

You can explore a lot in a day if you’re driving – but I recommend spending a night if you can. Camping (or glamping) is always a brilliant, adventurous option – but there are plenty of hotels throughout Dartmoor, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to grand country manors.

My personal favourite is Dartmoor Shepherds Huts : a little hidden gem with a simple campsite and a handful of slightly basic, but beautiful wooden huts and cabins – all set around a small stream.

Plymouth Regatta – A three-day yacht regatta with competitive races and lots of entertainment on shore. Next dates: TBC (usually June/July)

British Fireworks Championships – Six professionals compete for the title over two nights. Next dates: 14th-15th August 2024.

Plymouth Armed Forces Day – Family-friendly festival held a The Hoe to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces. Next dates: 29th June 2024.

Seafest Plymouth – Discover South Devon’s top seafood and other local produce at this popular festival on Sutton Harbour. Next dates: TBC (usually September)

Are there any more great festivals, attractions, or other things to do in Plymouth? Scroll down to leave a comment with your tips!

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Explore Plymouth

Full of fascinating maritime history and known as Britain's Ocean History, Plymouth is one of the most exciting places in  South Devon  to visit. With its rich maritime heritage and its status as the regional capital for culture,  Plymouth  is one of the most dynamic and fascinating places to visit in Devon.

Messing about in boats

If you’re a fan of all things nautical, then be sure to make a trip to Plymouth Hoe. Not only is it the backdrop for Sir Francis Drake’s legendary game of bowls, but it’s also one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world. You can get incredible views of the Plymouth from Smeaton’s Tower. And don’t forget to pay a visit to the Barbican, a bustling array of  specialist shops ,  restaurants, cafe s and  world-class attractions  in Devon, all set against the backdrop of Plymouth's picturesque harbour. In addition, there’s Sutton Harbour, where you can visit the world-famous  Plymouth Gin Distillery  or, if you’re with the kids, drop in on the National Marine Aquarium.

As far as maritime history goes, Plymouth is unrivalled. With other sights and experiences, such as Royal William Yard, it’s easy to immerse yourself in Plymouth’s seafaring heritage.

Soak up Plymouth's culture

If it’s culture you’re after, you’re going to be equally spoilt for choice. Because so many young people come here to study and work in marine science, there’s always something going on in Plymouth. In the back streets and along the winding streets you’ll find some of the  best places to eat in Devon.  There's a cluster of  celebrity chef restaurants  in Plymouth, and many of its eateries are supplied with fresh produce by the local farms and fishermen.

The city is a host for many  nationally important events  and  Devon attractions   such as the British Art Show and America’s Cup World Series and The Armed Forces Day National Event, as well as its own unique home grown events like the Barbican Jazz and Blues Festival, the British Fireworks Championships and the Marine City Festival. These events take place all year around, making Plymouth one of the best places to go in Devon, whatever the season. And, if you’re looking to throw a little  retail therapy  into the mix, Plymouth has the largest shopping-centre in the South West, outside of Bristol, framed by impressive post-war architecture.

Where to stay in Plymouth

If Plymouth sounds like the place for you, you’ll be glad to know it also plays host to some of the best and most  reasonably-priced places to stay in Devon . Whether you want to hire a  self-catering cottage , stay in a  family-friendly B&B  or book yourself a weekend in a  luxury hotel , there is a superb selection of  accommodation  to suit a range of requirements and budgets. Almost all  are located overlooking or just a short walk from the spectacular waterfront views and from the city’s shopping centre. Being a University City, Plymouth  has plenty of accommodation for backpackers or those travelling on a tight budget.

If you’re considering a visit to the city, check out the  what's on section  for a full list of events and festivals all year round. You’ll find that a memorable visit to Plymouth doesn’t depend on the quality of the British summer.

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10 Very Best Things To Do In Plymouth, England

Nestled on the south coast of beautiful Devon , Plymouth is a historical city with hundreds of years of maritime history. Not only that, there’s a heap of spots to see and the best things to do in Plymouth that make it a great little city break whilst exploring wider Devon. 

Over the centuries, Plymouth has seen its fair share of histories; all of which has shaped the city of the years. Home to England’s biggest seaports and naval bases, the city basks in rich maritime history, which includes its role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

Nowadays, you don’t need to worry about any sailing armadas and you can stroll the city with ease! So, to help you get the most out of your trip, I wanted to share some gorgeous spots you shouldn’t miss when you visit Plymouth.

Take a look, below, at the best things to do in Plymouth in Devon . Have an amazing visit. 

1.) Plymouth Hoe

Plymouth Hoe, or simply “the Hoe”, is considered the centre and beating heart of the city.

Perched high above the harbour, this gorgeous park offers breathtaking views of the city and the wider area around Plymouth Sound. These are totally stunning, especially on a sunny day! 

As you stroll, you’ll spot the Naval War Memorial and the Armada Monument which is designed with the coats of arms of the towns that aided in the battle in the 1500s.

After walking the Promenade, make your way over to the art installation known as the “Beatle Bums”. It serves as a reminder of the time when The Beatles came to Plymouth back in the 1960s.

Oh, and don’t forget the Tinside Lido, an outdoor swimming pool that is worth visiting on a warm summer day.

You’ll also get some picture-perfect spots from the viewing platform of the Smeaton Tower, a magnificent red-and-white striped lighthouse that stands proudly. 

Read more: Best places to visit in Devon

2.) Plymouth Sound

The Plymouth Sound, or locally known as “The Sound”, is a natural harbour that stretches from the southwest corner of Penlee Point in Cornwall up to the southeasterly point of Wembury Point in Devon.

This six-kilometre bay area is the perfect spot for a stroll along the trails. In fact, I’d say it’s one of the best things to do in Plymouth if you fancy a little stroll away from the city itself.

You see, from here, you can join the famed South West Coastal Path. It’s one of the big ones to join (so prep well) or just choose sections to stroll (like we tend to do).

Plus, you’ll get some gorgeous views from Mount Edgecumbe Country Park. It’s easily accessed via the Cremyll Ferry and well worth a stroll.

Read more: Best hikes in England

3.) Royal Citadel

Right next to Hoe Park, the Royal Citadel is a historic fortress that has defended the coastline since the 17th century.

Nowadays, you can head inside to explore the citadel and visit spots like the Royal Chapel of St. Katherine-upon-the-Hoe. Plus, from here, you’ll also get some superb views of Plymouth Sound (from near the ramparts which are still armed with cannons).

It’s an iconic part of Plymouth and can’t be missed. 

The guided two-hour tours in the Royal Citadel are open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from April to September. 

Read more: Best beaches in Cornwall

4.) Plymouth Gin Distillery

Fancy a tipple? Then the Plymouth Gin Distillery should be your port-of-call! 

It is one of the most historic gin distillers, producing its famous nectar since 1793. The gin product even became the liquor that was regularly supplied to the Royal Navy officers for centuries. 

Today, you can hop on a guided tour in the facility and learn all about the gin distilling process itself. You’ll also get to learn more about its connection with some of the key pieces of Plymouth’s history. Such as the Mayflower and the Pilgrims.

Best of all, you’ll even get to try a few! 

Read more: Best places to visit in the South of England

5.) Wembury

Heading east, across the South Devon Area of Natural Beauty (AoNB), is the coastal village of Wembury.

It’s another little gem that’s well worth visiting and feels like stepping back in time. Nowadays, the village is preserved and supervised by the Devon Wildlife Trust, which means it’s nicely protected for us all to enjoy. 

Take a little stroll around the cosy village and be sure to spend some time on the coastline. It’s very quiet and serene and the perfect spot to visit if you fancy a quieter day away from the city. The views from around Mill Cottage are just gorgeous, especially at sunset.

Read more: Best places in Cornwall to visit

6.) Royal William Yard

Just on the coastline, to the west of Hoe Park, is Royal William Yard – an impressive Naval building from the 19th Century that stands proudly on the waterfront.

Here, you’ll get to wander the converted buildings that are filled with little shops, restaurants and stalls that line the route. You might even spot some of the art studios within the yard, too. 

If you fancy a wider stroll, head up to nearby Devil’s Point which has some lovely views down Firestone Bay. 

If that’s not your thing, head over to Crownhill Fort – just outside the city centre itself. Established in the 1860s, the fort is considered to be the best-preserved stronghold among Lord Palmerston’s ‘Ring of Fire’ which protected the city of Plymouth during the Victorian era.

Today, the Landmark Trust manages the Crownhill Fort and opens it to the public every last Friday of each month. You can scout the fort’s ramparts and mysterious tunnels during guided tours, and relive the memories of the battleground with historical reenactments. In Spring, Firepower Day is a highly anticipated event wherein the visitors can witness the historic artillery guns in action.

In addition to the tours, the former Officers’ Quarters and fully-furnished luxury suites of the structure are also available for overnight stays.

7.) Saltram House

One of the best things to do in Plymouth (that’s just shy of Saltram Beach) is visiting Saltram House and Gardens. This National Trust property has a whopping 500-acres of an estate to explore which is totally breathtaking. 

Once here, make sure to explore the Orangery and pristine gardens before hopping inside to see the collections of ceramics and art pieces in the manor.

8.) The Barbican

History flows along the narrow cobbled lanes of The Barbican, the circuit of ancient streets where 200 listed buildings of both Tudor and Jacobean architecture are perched.

It’s easily one of the most iconic spots and the best things to do in Plymouth if you want to a little stroll, shop or cafes for a bite to eat. 

Strolling the area around Sutton Harbour will lead you to the Mayflower Steps.

These are well-known to have been taken by the Pilgrim Fathers upon their departure from England aboard the Mayflower to seek a new life in America in 1620.

Getting hungry? Stop off for lunch at Bonne Santé for their yummy firecracker prawns. 

9.) Devonport Naval Heritage Centre

If you’re interested in exploring more of Plymouth’s maritime history, then head over to the Devonport Naval Heritage Centre. 

The museum walks you through the whole development of the Dockyardand keeps the records of Plymouth’s crucial support to the Royal Navy. All of which’s pretty interesting. 

Not only that, the Devonport Naval Heritage Centre provides shelter for the decommissioned naval submarine ‘Courageous’. 

Afterwards, head on over to Fletcher’s Restaurant for their yummy seasonal menu. The venison was so good. 

10.) Burrator Reservoir

Just outside the Plymouth is the lovely Burrator Reservoir.  It’s a unique and relaxing escape to the countryside that’s within easy reach of the city and totally lovely to stroll around.

With heaps of woodland and trails, you might even get to spot some deer along the way! Now, it’ll likely take you around two (or more) hours to fully cover – so plan your trip in advance.

Oh, and if you’re looking for parking then head over to Burrator Quarry . It’s probably the easiest place we found to park up.  

When you’re back in Plymouth, head over to the Tudor Rose Tea Rooms for some of their freshly-baked scones. They’re delicious. 

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Plymouth (Devon, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Plymouth (Devon, England)

At the head of Plymouth Sound, one of the world’s great natural harbours, Plymouth is a city with a rich maritime past.

For hundreds of years this has been a naval base, and the cliffs along the harbour are armed with coastal forts and batteries from the 17th century to the Second World War.

You can stand on the Hoe, at the top of low limestone cliffs, to watch the comings and goings on the Sound, and potter around the cobblestone streets of the Barbican, where the Mayflower set sail for America in 1620. Britain’s oldest gin distillery is here, producing the English national spirit for more than 225 years, while the old Victualling yard is a dynamic waterside neighbourhood with venerable 18th-century naval buildings.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Plymouth :

1. Plymouth Hoe

A south-facing limestone rise, Plymouth Hoe has been used as a viewpoint to survey the Sound and the west end of the English Channel since time immemorial.

Standing here you can see the entirety of Plymouth Sound, as well as Mount Edgcumbe in Cornwall and Drake’s Island.

The story goes that Sir Francis Drake played a game of bowls here after the first sails of the Spanish Armada were sighted in 1588. A few of the attractions on this list are atop the Hoe, like the Royal Citadel and Smeaton’s Tower.

Down on the water is the Tinside Lido, a swish semi-circular outdoor pool with an Art Deco design.

2. Smeaton’s Tower

Taking the name of its designer, the Georgian civil engineer John Smeaton, this tower is a former lighthouse that was relocated on Plymouth Hoe in the 1880s.

The trailblazing original tower was set on Eddystone Reef between 1759 and 1877, until it had to be taken down due to erosion.

In its earliest days its signal was provided by 24 candles, each weighing a little under a kilogram.

The tower had become such a landmark that at the end of its lifespan it was rebuilt as a memorial and has been carefully restored inside and out to its 18th-century design.

You can battle up the 93 steps and ladders to the lantern room, more than 20 metres high to cast your gaze across the Plymouth Sound.

3. Plymouth Sound

Standing on the Hoe, you can take a few minutes to gaze at this vast natural harbour, spotting Royal Navy vessels and watching the water traffic.

A neat way to see this immense body of water is from the east side between Mount Batten Point and Andurn Point.

The geology of the cliffs and outcrops is also fascinating, and changes from red and green sandstone in the south around Andurn Point, to slates, siltstones and darker sandstone as you head north towards the city.

On the way you’ll observe colossal faults in the rock caused by tectonic pressures up to 330 million years ago.

The route is littered with coastal forts raised in different periods, like the circular artillery fort atop Mount Batten, dating to 1652 and the site of a Bronze Age fort.

4. Barbican

The Barbican on the north and west sides of Sutton harbour is a stylish, historic and cosmopolitan area to get lost in for an hour or two.

It’s one of the few quarters of the city to escape major damage during the Plymouth Blitz in the Second World War and has tight alleys flanked by Tudor, Jacobean and Georgian properties from 16th, 17th and 18th centuries.

There are more than 100 listed buildings on this labyrinth of cobblestone lanes, and the parade is a charming place to wander beside Sutton Harbour in the evening.

The Barbican also has a very international selection of places to eat, as well as galleries, unique independent shops, pubs, cafes and attractions like the Plymouth Distillery.

5. National Marine Aquarium

Plymouth has the largest aquarium in the UK, which opened on reclaimed land in Sutton Harbour in 1998. The National Marine Aquarium has habitats for 4,000 individual animals, from 400 species, across four main zones.

You’ll begin with a glimpse of the life found around Plymouth Sound, like sharks and rays, as well as the crustaceans and echinoderms that inhabit its rockpools.

The Eddystone Reef shows off the marine life around Britain, from conger eels, lobsters and pollock, to flatfish and smooth hound sharks.

The Atlantic Ocean exhibit was refreshed in 2009 with the largest ever shipment of live fish to the UK, and has a tarpon, barracudas, upside-down jellyfish and sand-tiger sharks.

Finally the Blue Planet reveals the amazing biodiversity of the world’s oceans, home to the Great Barrier Reef tank with 70 different species in one environment.

Just east of the city is Saltram House, a Georgian mansion in 500 acres of farmland comprising woods, marshes, farmland and the Plym estuary.

The house was planned by the feted Scottish architect Robert Adam, adapting an earlier Tudor property.

Several generations of the wealthy Parker family lived here, and the Neoclassical residence is still furnished with their collection of paintings by leading Georgian artists like Joshua Reynolds.

There are also valuable textiles, ceramics and clocks, and you’ll get to see the refined saloon, the library with Chinoiserie decoration and a kitchen with an antique range and copper cookware.

Outside you can walk in meadows among the grazing cattle, take a picnic looking out at the Plym and track down the Parkers’ 18th-century amphitheatre folly.

7. Royal Citadel

On the east side of Plymouth Hoe stands the Royal Citadel, built in the 1600s during the Dutch Wars in the reign of King Charles II. It was designed by the Dutch military engineer Bernard de Gomme in an unorthodox configuration, using local limestone.

The Royal Citadel is still a military base controlled by the British Army, but you can come for guided two-hour tours on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from April to September.

You can go up to the ramparts, still armed with cannons, to look across the Plymouth Sound.

You’ll get a thorough explanation of the history of the fort’s past, and its role as a training centre in the 19th century.

Some architectural highlights are the English Baroque gateway, and the Royal Chapel, dating to 1371.

8. Plymouth Naval Memorial

At the centre of Plymouth Hoe is a war memorial for British and Commonwealth sailors who lost their lives in the World Wars and have no known burial place.

The memorial is one of three monuments, here, and at the Royal Navy bases in Portsmouth and Chatham.

It bears are the names of 7,251 sailors missing from the First World War and 15,933 from the Second World War.

Unveiled in 1924, the memorial was designed by Scottish architect Henry Lorimer, and its lions, Royal Navy crest and globe atop the obelisk were carved by Henry Poole.

In 2016 at the centenary of the Battle of Jutland, the memorial was elevated to Grade I listed status.

9. Plymouth Gin Distillery

Plymouth has the oldest operating gin distillery in England, the home of Plymouth gin since 1793, and once exported around the world by the Royal Navy.

The Black Friars Distillery is in a building with some much older architecture, at the Refectory, dating back to 1431 and now a bar and tasting area with a grand timber roof.

The building was a merchant’s house, and then a gaol and congregational house before taking on its current vocation.

The distillery continues to produce Plymouth Gin, which has a sweeter palate than London dry gin, and invites you for guided visits and then a testing session in the Refectory.

It is believed that pilgrims on the Mayflower spent there last night on English soil in this hall in 1620.

10. Royal William Victualling Yard

The stately Royal William Victualling Yard is a former Royal Navy property that was released by the Ministry of Defence in 1992. Up to that point it had been used for “Victualling”, supplying navy vessels with food and drink.

It has an ensemble of distinguished buildings from the 1820s and the 1830s designed by Sir John Rennie, made up of a former bakery, slaughterhouse, brewhouse, old and new cooperages, warehouses and residences.

Since the 90s this has all been turned into a posh waterside neighbourhood, with yachts docked on the water, and a mixture of restaurants, shops, bars and residential properties.

Drop by in summer and there’s lots of public events, like outdoor theatre, arts and crafts markets and open-air cinema screenings.

11. Wembury

Plymouth is 15 minutes from the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the southeast, and on the coast sits the small village of Wembury.

This is wrapped in gorgeous rolling scenery, preserved by the National Trust, and with high cliffs on the coast.

With a field of Lower Devonian reefs exposed at low tide, Wembury Beach is one of the best in the country for rockpooling, and you can head down with children to look for starfish, crabs, sea scorpions, anemones and limpets.

There are also consistent swells of up two metres or more for surfers, and cliff-top walks on the Southwest Coast Path with views to the Great Mew Stone, an islet painted by J. M. W. Turner.

12. Plymbridge Woods

You can trace the Plym upriver to the northeast edge of the city, where you’ll come to a large swathe of woodland managed by the National Trust in a landscape of abandoned quarries.

The woods are woven with walking and cycling trails, varying in length but none particularly challenging on this light terrain.

You can follow the river through mossy oak forest and may spot fallow deer, peregrine falcons and kingfishers.

Springtime is really special, when the forest floor is bedded with wildflowers like bluebells, wild garlic, primroses and wood anemones.

13. Devonport Naval Heritage Centre

When you’re in a city with the largest naval base in Western Europe it’s only natural to be curious about its military history.

HMNB Devonport has a visitor centre that you can check out by appointment.

This attraction documents the dockyard’s growth over the centuries and Plymouth’s role in seaborne warfare since the 14th century.

In the galleries are model ships, pieces of military regalia, silver, crockery and historic figureheads.

The decommissioned nuclear submarine HMS Courageous is also part of the tour.

Depending on security and timetabling you can also contact the heritage centre to take a tour of one of the modern amphibious ships at the base, like the assault ship HMS Bulwark and the helicopter carrier HMS Ocean.

14. Dartmoor Zoo

Under ten miles from Plymouth on the southern boundary of the Dartmoor National Park, Dartmoor Zoo is a day out that will go down well with younger members of the family.

The park was the inspiration for the 2011 movie We Bought a Zoo, starring Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson, based on the mishaps suffered by the current owners who purchased the attraction in 2006. Among the 72 mammal species are Amur tigers, African lions, jaguars, lynes, Iberian and grey wolves, short-clawed otters, zebras and wallabies.

The zoo also has a variety of owls, tarantulas, leaf insects, snakes and the oldest inhabitant, Tina, the spur-thighed tortoise, now pushing 60 years old.

15. Cremyll Ferry

From the Admiral’s Hard in Stonehouse you can cross into Cornwall over the River Tamar on a route that has been active since the start of the 13th century.

The Cremyll Ferry departs from Plymouth at 15, 30 and 45 past the hour and takes eight minutes to reach the small coastal village of Cremyll.

Aboard the Plymouth Belle you’ll can survey Plymouth Sound, the Royal William Yard and Mount Edgcumbe, climbing behind Cremyll on the eastern tip of the Rame Peninsula.

Bring a bike, which costs an extra 75p over the £1.50 fare and you can zip around the Rame Heritage Coast, a natural reserve with beautiful views back to Plymouth and the vestiges of Victorian and Second World War coastal defences.

15 Best Things to Do in Plymouth (Devon, England):

• Plymouth Hoe
• Smeaton's Tower
• Plymouth Sound
• National Marine Aquarium
• Royal Citadel
• Plymouth Naval Memorial
• Plymouth Gin Distillery
• Royal William Victualling Yard
• Plymbridge Woods
• Devonport Naval Heritage Centre
• Dartmoor Zoo
• Cremyll Ferry

Plymouth: Britain’s ocean city

Plymouth, in south west England.

Explore The Barbican and play bowls on The Hoe with Drake.

On the border of Devon and Cornwall , some 200 miles from London, England’s southwesternmost major port has played a dramatic role in the nation’s maritime history and defense. That reality is evidenced by the city’s appearance today, whether you arrive by road or train. The city appears to look too young for its history. Alas, Plymouth’s importance during World War II resulted in the city and its harbor sustaining widespread devastation from the German bombing. The modern city today is largely built on those ashes.

Just as there is with any historic English city, Plymouth has multiple layers that can repay several days of exploration. This is one of those places, however, where its unique culture and heritage are concentrated in an area that can easily be covered by foot. Miraculously, Plymouth’s inner harbor neighborhood known as the Barbican and the broad plateau above it, Plymouth Hoe, largely survived the 20th-century destruction intact—yet are largely overlooked by heritage travelers like savvy British Heritage readers.

In the maritime, island Great Britain, Plymouth’s self-assumed moniker as the “Ocean City” might seem a little presumptive. As Britain’s westernmost principal port, however, Plymouth lies just where the English Channel broadens into the open Atlantic, with unbroken water west to North America. Plymouth alone of the island’s cities faces the Atlantic Ocean.

Destination Plymouth

Plymouth isn’t the sort of place you would just set out driving to as a sole destination. It is just too many miles from London, and there are too many other great heritage destinations on the way. As a two-night stopover on a West Country itinerary, though, Plymouth makes a great visit. By train from London Paddington, Plymouth makes a marvelous destination with a roughly four-hour rail journey through the archetypical English countryside and along the gorgeous Devon coast.

 Planning a Stay

Location is everything for an efficient visit to Plymouth’s historic heart. The best-situated hotels for walking the harbor, Barbican and the Hoe are the moderately-priced Holiday Inn and the Hotel Invicta, tucked just behind the Hoe. A number of B&Bs are scattered on the Barbican fringes. For accommodation options and advice, or to find out what’s on at the Royal Opera House or the popular Theatre Royal, check out www.visitplymouth.co.uk

A Plymouth Primer

The place to start in Plymouth is the inner harbor. Make for the Mayflower Steps. Here is the spot wherein 1620 the famous Pilgrim community boarded the Mayflower for their journey to the New World. The steps are marked with a memorial arch, and the American flag flies beside the Union Jack. Right across the street is Plymouth’s resourceful Tourist Centre. Pick up maps, events, guides, and accommodation here.

Just across the footbridge over the entrance to Sutton Harbour and the marina, pay a visit to the National Marine Aquarium. Britain’s largest aquarium is divided into four distinct zones, expanding from Plymouth Sound to Britain’s varied coasts, the Atlantic Ocean and the “Blue Planet.” Through the aquarium, waters swim more than 400 species of marine life.

The Barbican is a cobbled warren of shops, pubs and waterfront cafes. You might visit a chandler’s shop or the commercial fish market, or people-watch amidst the street performers on the quay. Pay a visit as well to the Plymouth Gin distillery or catch a boat trip around Plymouth Sound and the coast.

There is always a festive atmosphere along the harbor. DANA HUNTLEY

The Hoe rises abruptly to the south of the harbor, capped by Smeaton’s Tower Lighthouse rising off the headland. Every turn of the head brings magnificent views over Plymouth Sound. Other highlights of the expansive common are the Royal Navy War Memorial, Plymouth’s lido and a children’s amusement park. Events throughout the year find a stage on The Hoe, from funfairs to the British Fireworks Championship.

A monument to Sir Francis Drake and his defeat of the Spanish Armada recalls one of the city’s favorite legends. When Drake received the word in 1588 that the Spanish naval fleet was approaching, he was playing bowls on The Hoe. The sea captain calmly finished his game while the tide turned before heading to his ship. The Royal Citadel on the southeast point of The Hoe remains an active military base of the Royal Marines.

The Pub on the Hoe serves a crowd of locals, and a great fish pie. DANA HUNTLEY

To the north in Plymouth’s nearby city center, the Drake Circus shopping mall and a large, active City Market anchor the southwest’s biggest retail destination for shoppers and browsers. Near Drake Circus is the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery. Another popular neighborhood in Royal William Yard, once a naval victualling depot, now a gaggle of cafes, restaurants, and pubs in a setting of historic military buildings.

Right in the Neighborhood

An easy half-day visit from Plymouth by car is Buckland Abbey, home of Sir Francis Drake. Just a few miles inland, on the south side of Dartmoor, Drake bought the manor in 1580 with plunder from the Spanish and a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth. The abbey today is a National Trust visit superbly displaying the Cistercian abbey’s 700-year history and many of Drake’s treasures.

These days, Sutton Harbour is dominated by leisure craft. DANA HUNTLEY

Go Explore the Region

Pair a train journey to Plymouth easily with a stop at Exeter, Bristol or Bath—all other stations on the West Country Line. From those cities, make short rail connections to Cardiff, Salisbury or Portsmouth, each with direct connections back to London.

By car, you might follow the A386 north across the peninsula, following the western edge of Dartmoor and Exmoor to meet the beautiful North Devon coast at Biddeford or continue southwest across the River Tamar to explore Cornwall. Or visit Exeter and its magnificent cathedral, then follow the south coast east through Dorset to Hampshire and the New Forest.

* Originally published in April 2020, updated in 2023.

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Plymouth is a city in Devon , and the largest city on England 's south coast, with a population of 265,000 in 2021. It is about 190 miles (310 km) south-west of London, where the River Plym and the River Tamar (pronounced "TAY-mar") flow into the large bay of Plymouth Sound, creating a perfect natural harbour. The sea has been at the heart of Plymouth since it was founded in the middle-ages as a trading post and the source of its prosperity. Plymouth was the point from which the Pilgrim Fathers left England in 1620 for Massachusetts , commemorated today in the Mayflower Steps.

Understand [ edit ]

Plymouth is one of England's classic ocean cities, and for centuries has been a centre for shipping; first for trade and commercial shipping, and today as a base for the Royal Navy. Indeed, the city's Devonport Dockyard is the most extensive naval base in Western Europe. The water, with its leisure activities, brings many tourists to Plymouth, as do its various museums and other tourist attractions. In addition, its location close to Dartmoor and other sights of south Devon to the east and Cornwall to the west make it an excellent base for a trip to the south-west of England.

The city was heavily bombed in World War II and much of the city centre was destroyed. After the war, a comprehensive reconstruction plan was first produced the carefully planned urban spaces and elegant buildings of the shopping streets in the city centre, constructed in the 1950s. However, due to budget restrictions, many of the buildings erected in the 1960s and 70s were of poor architectural quality, and these are now being torn down and replaced across the city by modern ones (with exceptions of some quality, such as the listed tower of the Civic Centre on the Royal Parade). As a result, there are many modern buildings with others under construction.

Plymouth is a friendly city with an egalitarian feel and a sense of openness among its people, and there is less evidence of a sharp divide between rich and poor that is found in much of the southern half of England. Wonderful Devon and Cornwall scenery surrounds the city and famous city locations, such as the Hoe, the Barbican, and Plymouth Sound draw thousands every year yet Plymouth doesn't have the "tourist trap" feel that hangs over many other English cities. For those who love the sea, or the coast, or the brooding landscapes of Dartmoor , or just want a break in a welcoming and interesting city, Plymouth is an enticing and friendly destination.

A resident of Plymouth is called a Plymothian . You may also hear the more derogatory term "Janner" being used, but don't call anyone this if you are a visitor! There is a large military presence in the city, with the Royal Navy's main base at Devonport, a commando regiment of the British Army at the Royal Citadel, and a Royal Marines base at Stonehouse. In addition, you'll likely find a lot of tourists and students.

Orientation [ edit ]

The city is located at the southwest corner of Devon, with Cornwall beginning immediately to the west of the city. It lies between two river mouths: the estuary of the River Tamar ("TAY-mar") to the west (the estuary is called the Hamoaze ) and the estuary of the River Plym to the east (called the Cattewater ). To the south is Plymouth Sound (everyone just calls it "the Sound"), a large bay bounded to the west by the Rame Peninsula which is now part of Cornwall, and to the east by the Mount Batten Peninsula. This produces one of the world's most impressive natural harbours, in which you'll see innumerable yachts, sailing ships, kayaks, other pleasure craft, and even small fishing vessels (of which there are a reasonable number in Plymouth). The Sound is protected from the sea by a huge breakwater at its southern end, easily seen from the shore. You'll often see naval vessels around it.

Immediately above the water is a grassy area called Plymouth Hoe (always just called "the Hoe"), whose name comes from a Saxon word for "grassy slope". You can spot the Hoe easily because of the lighthouse (Smeaton's Tower) that sits on it, and its wide grassy area. From here, planned as part of the grand reconstruction of the 1950s, runs north of the "spine" of the city. From Smeaton's Tower on the Hoe to the railway station north of the city centre (which you can identify from its 1970s tower, InterCity House). This "spine" is Armada Way , a wide street, mostly pedestrianised, with council offices at its southern end, and shops and banks and cafés as you head north. Running east-west across Armada Way are other important city-centre streets with their elegant yet now-faded buildings; Royal Parade, New George Street, Cornwall Street, and Mayflower Street. These city-centre streets are bounded by busy main roads. To the east of the Hoe is the Barbican area (with its historic streets and large harbour/marina), and the University of Plymouth's large and impressive campus is just across the main road at the north-east of the city centre. Other major streets can be found off these.

The Tourist Information Centre is in the Barbican area, at the quayside just opposite the Mayflower Steps, at 3-5 The Barbican (that's the street address). It is open all year M-F 9AM-5PM and Sa 10AM-4PM.

• Visit Plymouth website

Background [ edit ]

Plymouth City is within the historic county of Devon. The area was first recorded in the Domesday book as "Sudtone" (1086; later Sutton), which was located where the Barbican area of the city is today. Around this time also existed the trading port of Plymstock, further up the river (it still exists today as a suburb). However, the River Plym at Plymstock silted up in the 11th century and the area gradually came to be known as "Plymouth". The sea has always been at the heart of Plymouth's story and it has a long and historic seafaring tradition. Its growth from a small fishing village and then trading port has been based on its position on one of the world's largest natural harbours and the enterprise of its seafarers: fishermen, merchants, privateers and later the Royal Navy.

Plymouth was the home of Elizabethan privateer and hero/villain Sir Francis Drake (though he was born at Tavistock a few miles north), and from here he planned his raids and other maritime adventures. In 1588, the English Navy, which was led in part by Drake, set sail from Plymouth to defeat the Spanish Armada . It is said that Drake refused to leave port until he had finished his game of bowls on the Hoe. While this is probably more legend than history, there is still a bowls club on the Hoe today. In 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers sailed to the New World after setting into Plymouth for repairs, escaping from religious persecution to eventually set up Plymouth Colony, Massachusetts. Plymouth was a stronghold of Parliamentarian forces in the English Civil War, written across its history in areas such as Freedom Fields park. After the restoration, the new king, Charles II, ordered the construction of a massive fort (the Royal Citadel ) to protect the town from invaders,?such was its strategic importance. But the fort's guns also faced inland, it is said as a signal to the people of the city about where their loyalties should lie! The Royal Citadel is still home to a unit of the Army. The Royal Dockyard was built in the area, on the banks of the River Tamar, in 1690. Plymouth was amalgamated in 1914 with the towns of Devonport and Stonehouse to form the modern city which was granted city status in 1928. It includes the historic areas of Plymstock and Plympton.

The city was seriously damaged by bombing during the Second World War (1939–45) and the city centre was extensively redeveloped afterwards. At Charles Cross, the ruined Charles Church was left as a memorial to the many dead. Behind it, the Drake Circus shopping centre was constructed to frame it in dramatic fashion, as an impressive entrance to the city from the south-east. The shopping streets of the city centre were first to be reconstructed, according to the grand plan of Sir Patrick Abercrombie. This resulted in the elegant large buildings from the 1950s that can be seen on streets such as Armada Way, New George Street, and Cornwall Street. However, these are now in need of restoration. Much of the rest of the reconstruction involved cheap buildings in the Brutalist style fashionable in the 1960s and 1970s, most of which had no architectural merit. However, exceptions included the Civic Centre which is Grade II-listed. Many historic buildings remain, particularly in the Barbican area, isolated city-centre examples such as the City Museum, and also outside the city-centre which escaped the worst of the bombing (e.g. the Royal William Yard).

With its dramatic coastal setting, the surrounding landscape is quite striking. Plymouth is by turns rugged and hilly, or green and rolling. Famous Dartmoor was designated a National Park in 1951. Popular sites include Smeaton's Tower (a lighthouse rebuilt on the Hoe from its original location at Eddystone Rock when it was replaced with a new one), the Mount Batten Peninsula, the National Marine Aquarium, and Buckland Abbey, which was Drake's former home. Tourism is an important aspect of Plymouth's economy. Nearly 12 million people visit Plymouth every year. As well as all the attractions of a modern city, Plymouth is a popular launch pad to other notable areas including the beaches and footpaths of the Devon and Cornwall coastline and the brooding landscape of nearby Dartmoor.

Geology [ edit ]

The city of Plymouth covers multiple rock types, the Hoe, in the south of the city is composed of Devonian Limestone, which was also used for building a fairly high proportion of the city (most of the older houses and buildings are at least fronted with the stone). the area around the Station is formed of mudstone, which too is Devonian. The outer areas of the city are increasingly higher grades of metamorphosed mudstone, with the occasional pillow lava on hills. Dartmoor is a massive batholith (big lump) of granite, while Cawsand and Kingsand (reachable by ferry from the Barbican) contain various igneous structures.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Plymouth no longer has its own airport as it closed in 2011. However, you can use others in the region and make a connection by bus, train, or car. Visit www.nationalrail.co.uk to plan journeys from these cities or Gatwick airport's own station to Plymouth.

• 50.734444 -3.413889 1 Exeter Airport ( EXT  IATA ) is a 45-minute drive to the north-east (or bus to Exeter and train from there).
• 51.382778 -2.719167 2 Bristol Airport ( BRS  IATA ) is also nearby and operates flights across the UK and Europe with various airlines including easyJet, Ryanair, Air France, and others. You can get a frequent bus to Bristol Temple Meads station, from where it's a two-hour train ride to Plymouth. There is also a direct bus from the airport to Plymouth city centre, operated by Stagecoach and taking about three hours.
• 51.148056 -0.190278 3 London Gatwick Airport ( LGW  IATA ) is a useful option if you are coming from abroad or further afield in the UK. Flights are offered from all over Europe, and other world destinations such as the Middle East and Canada (though not from the US ). You can get a train from Gatwick's own station to Reading , and change there for trains to Plymouth; the total journey with change takes about 5 hours.
• 51.4775 -0.461389 4 London Heathrow Airport ( LHR  IATA ) is useful because flights arrive here from every nation in the world. Get the Heathrow Express or Heathrow Connect train to London Paddington station; from Paddington, direct trains take 3½–4 hours to Plymouth.

By car [ edit ]

Plymouth's principal access route from the East and the West is the A38 dual carriageway which runs through the city (the Devon Expressway). It connects to the M5 at Exeter for onward journeys, and into the heart of Cornwall to the west. The A386 connects Plymouth to Tavistock , Okehampton, the A30, and North Devon.

By train [ edit ]

If you are coming to or from the East, you will probably travel on the stretch of line between Newton Abbot and Exeter. This is one of the most scenic in the UK, as the train travels on the Riviera Line along the sea wall between Teignmouth (pronounced "Tin-muth"), Dawlish, and Starcross, and incredible sea cliffs and rolling hills line the entire route. Keep your eyes glued to that window!

• Inter-City services are provided by First Great Western (mostly using InterCity 125 trains) and CrossCountry (mostly using Voyager trains or sometimes InterCity 125). Direct trains arrive and depart for London Paddington (taking 3–4 hours), Bristol (2 hours), the Midlands (e.g. Birmingham 3 hr 40 min), stations in the North of England (several hours), and Scotland (e.g. Edinburgh in 9½ hours, Aberdeen in 12 hours!) You can also take inter-city services west to Cornwall to destinations like Penzance , and Truro . By direct train, or by making a change, you can get to almost anywhere in England, Scotland, or Wales.
• Sleeper services to London are provided by First Great Western. The 'Night Riviera' leaves London at around midnight every weeknight and Sunday, arrives in Plymouth at 5:22AM (5:36AM on Sundays) and departs at 6:30AM; the train continues to Penzance in Cornwall. Wake-up calls are available, or set the alarm on your phone!
• Local services are provided throughout the region by First Great Western (mostly using Sprinter trains), to stations in Cornwall, stations in Devon, and further afield.

To get from Plymouth Station into the city centre; from the main concourse, turn right as you head out the door. At the main road, turn left and walk down it (that's Saltash Road — you'll see cars speeding for the city centre). When you get to the interchange/roundabout, take the pedestrian subway to cross the roads and head into the city down the central avenue (that's Armada Way). You'll see city-centre buildings ahead of you. Armada Way leads directly through the retail area, and up to the landmark naval war memorial on the Hoe. There are also loads of taxis at the station, or you can get a bus from stops on Saltash Road (though it really isn't far).

By bus [ edit ]

Both the Plymouth Coach Station and Armada Bus Station are on Armada Way. This replaces the now-closed Bretonside Bus Station on Exeter Street.

• 50.37302 -4.142901 6 Plymouth Coach Station , 165 Armada Way, PL1 1HZ , ☏ +44 871 781 8181 .  

National Express ) operates services around the UK which arrive and depart from here. In addition, local and regional services also arrive here from towns in the region.

South West Falcon buses connect Bristol, Taunton , Exeter , and Plymouth. A single fare from Plymouth to Bristol is £28. Tickets can be booked online in advance, but reservations are not required.

If you are coming in by car but don't want to face the parking problems of the city-centre, there are also three main Park & Ride sites serving the city: 50.393871 -4.082201 1 Coypool (east near Plympton), 50.428016 -4.111886 2 George Junction (north) and 50.388766 -4.152642 3 Milehouse (city centre)

By boat [ edit ]

• Ferry Terminal . Brittany Ferries operates services to Plymouth from Santander (22 hours) and Roscoff (6 hours during the day, 8 hours during the night). The Ferry Terminal is to the west of the City Centre at the Millbay Docks, about 0.5 mi (0.80 km) (800 m) a mile walk from the Hoe and Central shopping precinct. ( updated Dec 2023 )

Get around [ edit ]

Most of the places where hotels are located and tourists visit are located in the city-centre and it's easy to walk between them. In fact, walking is a great way to see the city and get a feeling for the Plymothian way of life. However, in winter or when going further (e.g. visiting historic Devonport), or when you just don't want to or cannot walk, there are other options.

On foot [ edit ]

You can get a map from the Tourist Information Centre at the Barbican. Alternatively, you can print one from an online mapping service such as OpenStreetMap, or use a smartphone's maps app, as the city will be covered in detail.

Bus is the main form of public transportation in Plymouth, with services running all over the city. Two private companies operate all buses on a profit-making basis: Plymouth CityBus (owned by the GoAhead Group) and Stagecoach South West. Many of these services call at Royal Parade in the city centre. Fares for both depend on how far you're travelling. For a short journey (e.g. railway station to Royal Parade), a single adult fare might be £1.00 or £1.10; it will increase for longer distances and could be up to £2.50 if going a long way. You can pick up bus maps from the Tourist Information Office at the Barbican, or visit the bus companies' websites at www.plymouthbus.co.uk/ and www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/devon_cornwall/ [dead link] .

By taxi [ edit ]

To order a taxi, a useful number is Taxifirst on ☏ +44 1752 222222 .

One of the most 'local' ways to get around is by water taxi or boat. The majority of these services leave from the Barbican Landing Stage (by the Mayflower Steps) and are operated by private companies. Although this has not always been the case, the majority of lines do now operate in the winter. It is nevertheless advisable to check timetables as some services may be reduced, typically in the evening.

Depending on the length of the journey and the operating company, prices can range from £1.50 to £4.00. Generally speaking, you do not pay when you get on. Once the boat has set off, or just before setting off, a member of crew will come around to take payments.

The two most popular services amongst locals are probably the Barbican-Mountbatten line and the Cremyll Ferry from Admiral's Hard to Mount Edgecumbe. These can be relatively busy during the evenings and at rush hour; the Cremyll Ferry in particular can be quite full of school children at around 4pm during term time. That said, they do knock a significant amount of time off your journey.

Other routes useful to tourists include the Barbican-Royal William Yard line, Barbican-Mount Edgecumbe and Barbican-Cawsand/Kingsand.

See [ edit ]

• 50.3702 -4.1425 6 The Post-War City Centre . Focused on Royal Parade and Armada Way, has been much maligned by locals and the media. It is, however, worth stopping to have a look around you when you're in town. As the most complete example of a post-war reconstruction in the UK, this is a historically and architecturally significant district. It was planned by none other than Patrick Abercrombie, who also redesigned Hong Kong, and some of the buildings boast Thomas Tait as their architect. With a modern, almost American look, it was, in the words of Professor Jeremy Gould, 'an egalitarian grid, spacious, airy, uncomplicated, accessible and gapingly open to all... the architecture of the future: clean, bright, democratic and, most of all, optimistic.' Some of the best examples of the 1950s style are found along the main axis of Royal Parade and Armada Way, including the Royal Bank of Scotland building, the Pearl Assurance House and the former Co-Op Building at Derry's Cross.  

• 50.369944 -4.142124 15 Christ The King Roman Catholic Church , Armada Way, PL1 2EN . A postwar sandstone brick church, opened in 1962. Significant as the last work of Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, also responsible for Waterloo Bridge, Battersea Power Station, Liverpool Cathedral and even the red telephone box. He continued to work on the plans for the church even when hospitalised for lung cancer, and did so until his death. Today the church is well attended by young students and is worth taking note of on your way down to the Hoe.  
• 50.383825 -4.049781 16 Plympton Castle , Plympton ( Bus 21/21a from the City Centre ). Small ruins of the shell of a thousand-year-old motte and bailey castle. Good views over the conservation area of Plympton St Maurice , an ancient stannary [tin-mining] town worth seeing for its well-preserved medieval streets and architecture in the historic vernacular, including an old school, church and small guildhall. Many houses also boast fine Georgian facades. The castle has no 'gatekeeper'; i.e. it is open all year round, at all times of the day — just walk in and explore! The motte is a very steep climb. Free .  

Museums [ edit ]

• 50.36677 -4.13501 18 Elizabethan House . On the Barbican for more information.  
• 50.374335 -4.138329 19 The Box , Tavistock Place PL4 8AX , ☏ +44 1752 304774 . Museum and gallery including an exhibition on Mayflower . ( updated Apr 2021 )
• 50.3688 -4.1395 20 Merchant's House . A historic building tucked away down one of the city's oldest streets: the Merchant's House is Plymouth’s finest surviving example of a 16th/17th-century residence. During the 17th century it was home to three Plymouth mayors including privateer William Parker, a friend of Sir Francis Drake.  

Do [ edit ]

• Take a seafront walk . You can get fantastic views of the marina, the Sound, and out to sea if you walk along the seafront from the Barbican. The walk will take you along Madeira Road (constructed in the 1930s to provide work for the unemployed during the Great Depression), round the bottom of the Royal Citadel's walls. The road leads past the Hoe, and you can follow it along to the Millbay Docks. Fantastic views are available the whole way, including of Royal Navy ships in the Sound, the type of which you can often identify by the silhouette. You'll likely also see yachts, sailing ships, fishing boats, and other watercraft in the Sound. You might notice the breakwater at the southern edge of the sound, with its Napoleonic fort.

• 50.393523 -4.081629 3 Plym Valley Cycle Path , Plympton . Accessible from Plympton in the north east of the city, this path follows the Plym valley firstly alongside an old railway line and then on it through beautiful countryside all the way to Tavistock ; there is very little infrastructure or facilities along the path, so any food or drink should be picked up before leaving Plymouth. There is a large Sainsbury's located at Marsh Mills, just before you reach the beginning of the cycle path. There is a viewpoint on the first large viaduct out of Plymouth overlooking a disused quarry where peregrine falcons nest in the spring. Kingfishers, dippers, mandarin duck and many other species are found along the river Plym which flows through the woods here. Also of interest are the Cann Wood railway cottages, an abandoned Victorian railway village whose ruined houses are free to explore. The path can be followed all the way up to Dartmoor; it is possible to follow a route right up to Princetown. Can get quite crowded on the initial stretch with families on bicycles at weekends. Free .  
• Plymouth Pavilions is an entertainment centre that hosts big bands from time to time, ten-pin bowling, laser games, ice skating and the Pavilions funpool containing flume rides, Jacuzzi, wave machine and even an indoor beach. The centre is in the west end of the city centre on Union Street. It is supposed to be demolished, though there is no sign of this happening yet.
• Take a boat tour Plymouth boasts one of the best natural harbours in Europe and maybe even the world, taking to the water can give you a new view on the city. Most boats leave from the Barbican, often from a jetty next to the Mayflower Steps. Various boat trips are available, lasting between 1–3 hours, taking in the Navy dockyard, Brunel's Bridge and the Hoe foreshore but various different destinations are available. There are also shorter ferry services designed to get you from place to place across the water. You can get more details at the Tourist Information Office which is just opposite the entrance down to the jetty. Plymouth Boat Trips is one company operating trips.
• Football: Plymouth Argyle FC (aka The Pilgrims) were promoted in 2023 and now play soccer in the Championship, England's second tier. Their stadium is at Central Park (capacity 18,000), half a mile north of city centre. Plymouth Parkway also play at Bolitho Park in the Southern Premier League, as of 2023.
• Rugby Union: Plymouth Albion RUFC which plays at National Division 1 level, as of 2023, and also by Devonport Services RUFC.
• The British Firework Championships are an extremely impressive two-day championship between the best professional firework display companies to be crowned 'Champion of Champions'. Recognised as the UK's premier annual show, this takes place in the 'natural amphitheatre' of Plymouth Sound, meaning the fireworks can be viewed from the city itself, from the surrounding hills or from boats in the Sound. This yearly event attracts thousands of visitors and the Sound becomes packed with both private and commercial craft, so it is worth arriving in advance. It is recommended to take public transport if coming from the suburbs, as the traffic can be extremely heavy.
• 50.351079 -4.121589 5 Jennicliff . A designated 'county wildlife site' and offers breathtaking views over Plymouth Sound and towards the city centre. A water bus ride of around five minutes from the Barbican Landing Stage , followed by five to ten minutes on the SW Coastal Path, this is the perfect place for picnics, letting the kids run around and let off steam or just watching the world (and shipping!) go by. A small pebbly beach is located at the foot of Jennycliff, accessed down long but shallow (not steep) steps. There is also direct access onto the Southwest Coastal Path for longer walks to Heybrook, Wembury, Noss Mayo and beyond. A small café with facilities is available.  

Learn [ edit ]

Plymouth has two universities. The main university, and the one most visitors notice, is the immense University of Plymouth , with around 30,000 students. It is based on a large campus at the north-east corner of the city-centre, and puts on regular events for citizens and visitors. Even if you don't realize it, you are surrounded by its many students, particularly if you are in the city-centre, and in summer they open the halls of residence to visitors, providing good, affordable self-catering accommodation. You can walk around the impressive campus, and the Roland Levinskiy building is open to visitors to see its exhibitions, for events, and to visit the café. It stands out because of its scale, a tower of unusual shape in brown metal and glass. It became a university in 1992 having been a polytechnic for many years, but is one of the best-regarded of the former polytechnics which became universities that year. Plymouth's second university is University of St Mark & St John , usually abbreviated to "Marjon", with about 5,000 students. It is located in a northern suburb of the city, close to Dartmoor. It attained full university status in 2012 after being a university college for many years and offers an increasing number of degree programmes.

Plymouth is also home to nearly a third of all state schools in Devon , some of which are counted among the best in the country. Plymouth still has three selective grammar schools and a small independent school.

There are also a lot of private language schools, in particular in the city centre and around the railway station. Numbers swell in the summer as foreign school groups descend upon Plymouth to improve their English.

Buy [ edit ]

This is a city from where great voyages have begun for centuries. As no voyage can depart without supplies, there has always been a need to stock everything imaginable! Today you'll find fashion, clothing, local food and many other items.

City-centre shopping [ edit ]

Plymouth's city-centre shopping area is the largest and most comprehensive in the West of England outside of Bristol . Most stores as open M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Th until 8PM as late-night-shopping night, and Su 11AM-5PM. The main shopping areas are the streets of Armada Way and those running off it: the Royal Parade , New George Street , Cornwall Street , and Mayflower Street . These are housed in elegant 1950s buildings erected as part of the post-war reconstruction of the city, and mostly pedestrianised. Armada Way in particular is a broad avenue with trees, water features, and other interesting features running down the centre of the street. At the intersection of Armada Way and New George Street is the Armada Dial, a giant and striking sculpture of a sundial. However, these streets have been hit in the past few years by the closure of various major stores, including Woolworth's and the Derry's department store. It would be fair to say that these streets require some regeneration. But they are still busy during the day and especially on Saturdays, and you can find most chain stores here, as well as all the banks and some building societies that operate in England. There is a House of Fraser department stores here with entrance on Royal Parade.

There is no branch of John Lewis Waitrose or Ikea in the city (you have to go to Bristol for that). However, there is a Waitrose just over the Tamar Bridge, in Cornwall. There is another, older mall in the city, the Armada Centre which is on the corner of Armada Way and Mayflower Street. However, it is in decline and only features discount stores and pound-shops, though you might want to make a trip there for the big Sainsbury's supermarket.

Independent shops and markets [ edit ]

A visit to the independent shops in the Barbican area are a must, particularly on New Street and Southside Street. Here you'll find art and prints, antiques and collectables, and all sorts of other interesting shops — see what you can find! There are also all sorts of items on the Pannier Market which is held most days around Southside Street (this is not the same as the covered Pannier Market in the city-centre on Cornwall Street, which is usually known as the City Market). The Barbican area is also a good place for souvenirs of the city, which are also stocked at the Tourist Information Centre and the Edinburgh Woollen Mill, both near the Mayflower Steps.

Many tourists like to buy sea-themed souvenirs from their trip to Plymouth. There is a good selection at the Edinburgh Woollen Mill which is in a glass-faced shop in the Barbican, near the Mayflower Steps. Plymouth is the home of Plymouth Gin, and if you like English gin you may want to pick some up from the city it was distilled in even though the business is now owned by Pernod Ricard.

The 'Independent Quarter', to the West of the city-centre, contains smaller shops including a French-family owned bakery, a specialist pipe and tobacco shop, and many charity shops where second-hand goods donated by the public are sold to raise money for good causes.

Finally, you should pay a visit to the City Markets (previously known as the Pannier Market, but this is also the name of another at the Barbican which was confusing). The City Market is a covered indoor market of permanent stallholders similar to the St. Nicholas Markets in Bristol or the Grainger Market in Newcastle, but in an elegant modernist building constructed in the 1950s. The impressive scalloped roof fills the market with natural light. Here you'll find all manner of items for sale, including food (including produce fresh from farms in the region and freshly-caught local fish), clothing, collectables, decorative items, items for the household of all kinds, and many other things, and of generally high quality. There is no hawking or "hard sell" atmosphere as is found at some other places, nor the (albeit exciting) craziness and threat of the Camden Markets in London. Instead, there is a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, as a microcosm of that in the city as a whole. Some of the shops round the outside and on the mezzanine are somewhat retro. There are also some old-style British cafés on a mezzanine floor, of the sort which have mostly disappeared from British high streets to be replaced by coffee shops. The atmosphere in the market captures the classless and community-spirited air of life in the city. The market has entrances on Cornwall Street and New George Street (at the western end of these streets) and is open 9AM-5PM most days.

Supermarkets [ edit ]

If you are staying in self-catering accommodation, or just need to buy food other essential items, try the following:

• Tesco Metro has a store on New George Street (at the eastern end of the street), open 7AM to 10PM every night (except Sundays when it is 11AM to 5PM). This is a small supermarket which stocks most everyday food and other items.
• Sainsbury's has a store at the Armada Centre (entrance at the corner of Armada Way and Mayflower Street). This might be useful if you need a larger selection of items than at the Tesco Metro as it is somewhat larger. It's open 7AM to 8PM every night (except Sundays when it is 10:30AM to 4:30PM).
• The Cooperative Food has many small stores located throughout the city. These act as handy convenience-store outlets and are usually open until late. For example, stores are located at Southside Street and Hoegate Street in the Barbican, with another at Regent Street which is handy if you are staying at or near the University or its halls of residence. You'll also find them throughout the suburbs and other areas of the city.

Outside of the city centre, there is another larger Sainsbury's at Marsh Mills, an Asda in Estover (open 24 hours except Sunday) and two large branches of Tesco (one in Crownhill and one in Woolwell, the latter of which is an Extra and open 24 hours except Sunday).

Eat [ edit ]

For a city of its size, Plymouth does not have many fine restaurants, though it is home to the Tanners Restaurant run by brothers James and Chris Tanner. James is a well-known chef on British television. There are many good restaurants in the wider area. Among them: The Horn of Plenty at Gulworthy (20 miles), near Tavistock; the New Carved Angel at Dartmouth (35 miles) which was once voted the top restaurant in Britain; and the Gidleigh Park Hotel at Chagford .

The Barbican has a number of restaurants and bars lined up along the quayside. Notably few serve fresh locally caught fish; a local peculiarity for a fishing city. North Sea cod is generally only served battered and fried, with chips.

As with any major city, there are plenty of takeaway and fast food retailers within easy distance of most parts of Plymouth. Buying a takeaway in Plymouth can prove a cost effective alternative to a restaurant, with as many different food choices.

Naturally, any visitor to the West Country should try a traditional pasty (if in Plymouth, asking for a 'Cornish' pasty may attract some derision: just say "pasty"; they will understand!) a meat and potato mix wrapped in pastry. Try Ivor Dewdney's pasties to eat like the locals have done for over seventy years, or try the wonderfully entitled Oggy Oggy Pasty Company which has many branches, or the excellent Barbican Pasty Company on Southside Street in the Barbican area. The traditional filling is a mixture of shredded beef, swede, onion and potato, but various different flavours are available now. Vegetarian fillings are often available.

Traditionally, you eat by holding the thick pastry crust and eating from the soft pastry side — that kept your dirty fingers off the main part of the food if you were a miner (metal mining was big business in Devon and Cornwall in the 18th and 19th centuries, especially for tin, lead and copper) or fisherman. The thick crust meant that if you would be eating your lunch with poisonous tin or lead on your hands, you wouldn't be poisoned! Of course nowadays you can eat the whole thing, crust included!

Budget [ edit ]

• 50.3676 -4.13419 1 Cap'n Jasper's , 18 The Barbican . 8AM-11PM . 'World Famous for Fine Food', a great-value eating place on the Barbican. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.369727 -4.148038 2 Union Rooms , 19 Union St . Wetherspoon's pub in the city centre that has food such as beer and burger meals. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.36536 -4.150961 3 Port O Call , 23 Bishops Place . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.370794 -4.144465 4 Noahs Ark , 32A Courtenay St . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.37229 -4.147235 5 Cornwall Street Fish Bar , 33-35 Market Ave . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.372781 -4.145986 6 The Snack Box , 7 Market Way . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.37231 -4.144788 7 Jake's In The City , 85 Cornwall St . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.367259 -4.134923 8 Harbourside Fish and Chips , 35 Southside St . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.370483 -4.139955 9 Brass Monkey , 12-14 Royal Parade . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 50.367806 -4.137721 10 The Barbican Kitchen , Black Friars Distillery, 60 Southside St . Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, it is in the historic gin distillery on the Barbican (as the name suggests!) ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.373263 -4.144616 11 Veggie Perrin's , 97 Mayflower Street ( Just opposite the lower end of Armada Centre ), ☏ +44 1752 252888 . 6-10PM . A very pleasant, family-run Indian restaurant, which makes fresh vegetarian food while you wait. The samosas and dhal are exceptionally tasty. Highly recommended. £15-25 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.37243 -4.14451 12 Lantern Restaurant , 88 Cornwall St . Cypriot and Greek fare £15-30 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.380926 -4.165193 13 Cafe India , 18 Church St, Stoke Village . Highly regarded Indian restaurant in Plymouth. £15-25 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.36707 -4.134693 14 Platters , 12 The Barbican . Very reliable seafood dishes, try the scallops as a starter, and if you have room, the large fish and chips. £20-30 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.367304 -4.13556 15 Barbican Pasta Bar , 40 Southside St . Mainly Italian food: pizza and pasta. It is moderately priced with pasta dishes. £15-25 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 50.37245 -4.143879 16 Foodie , 72 Cornwall St . A cafe restaurant serving delicious Polish traditional food and English Breakfasts. £10-20 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 50.361432 -4.161321 17 The Artillery Tower , Durnford St, Stonehouse . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

If you're looking for a place to go out for a drink, there are two main places: the West End (especially Union Street and around Derry's Cross), and the Barbican . Of these, the Barbican has a somewhat nicer atmosphere, particularly on summer evenings when many people are drinking outside. However you can also find good pubs and bars in other parts of the city, including in the Mutley area, which attracts many students.

• 50.37528 -4.15966 2 The Millbridge Inn , 23 Molesworth Rd, Stoke, PL1 5LZ , ☏ +44 1752 563056 . Su M-W 10AM-11PM, Th 10AM-midnight, F Sa 10AM-1AM . In Millbridge, Plymouth, a Ferkin pub this usually has live music on a Friday and Saturday night.  
• The China House . at Coxside, this has great views over the harbour to the Barbican.  
• 50.39178 -4.04903 3 The Lord Louis , Glen Rd, Plympton, PL7 2DE . in Plympton is a suburban steak house.  
• Voodoo Lounge , 1 Charles St, PL1 1QH . In city centre is an alternative pub that hosts rock/indie/punk/alternative bands, open mic nights and quiz nights.  
• Pubs, clubs and bars due to the massive student population Plymouth has pretty much every national chain and plenty of local talent, good drinking areas include the Barbican, the area around the University, Mutley and Union Street especially on Friday or Saturday nights.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are many hotels, bed and breakfasts, guest houses, and other places to stay in Plymouth. If you find yourself in the city and needing a place to stay, try walking around to the west of the Hoe, around Citadel Road East/West and Leighton Street. You can also visit the Tourist Information Centre at the Barbican, which has a more comprehensive list of places to stay.

As with any decent sized city there are plenty of accommodation options, the Plymouth Tourist Information Centre ( ☏ +44 1752 306330 ) will be able to provide more assistance

There is suddenly a surplus of medium to low-price hotel or Travelodge style accommodation in the centre of the city where deals are always to be had and which provide better value and convenience than traditional bed and breakfast hotels although dozens of these are working hard to up their game.

• Plymouth University Summer Accommodation , ☏ +44 1752 588644 . July and August only . For comfortable, city centre accommodation during the high season. A choice of single standard or single and double en suite rooms are available from as little as £20 per night, with a choice of self catering or room only. The accommodation is within walking distance of the main shopping area, the waterfront and the train and bus stations. ( updated Feb 2017 )
• Ibis , Longbridge Road, PL6 8LR ( in Marsh Mills (to the north west of the city, directly off the Devon Expressway) ). ( updated May 2016 )
• 50.3745 -4.1431 1 Copthorne Hotel , Armada Way PL1 1AR , ☏ +44 17 5222 4161 . Part of a chain which has a hotel in the centre of Plymouth ( updated May 2016 )
• 50.3674 -4.1416 2 Crowne Plaza Plymouth . Known for having the best view of the Sound in Plymouth from its bar. ( updated May 2016 )
• There are a camp-sites also in Marsh Mills Riverside Camp-site it is well signposted from both the city centre and the road to and from Exeter, Plymouth Sound Caravan Club [1] , Brixton Caravan & Camping Park and many more in the surrounding area.
• 50.36981 -4.15405 3 Plymouth Backpackers Hotel , 172 Citadel Rd, The Hoe, PL1 3BD . ( updated May 2016 )
• Avalon Guest House , 167 Citadel Road The Hoe Plymouth PL1 2HU , ☏ +44 1752 668127 . Check-in: 1PM , check-out: 10AM . Friendly relaxed and comfortable family run guest house bed and breakfast situated on Plymouth Hoe in the heart of Plymouth.  

Connect [ edit ]

As of Sep 2023, Plymouth and its approach roads have 4G from O2 and 5G from EE, Three and Vodafone.

Cope [ edit ]

Derriford Hospital is in a northern suburb of the city. Emergency care is free to all, and holders of a European Health Insurance Card are entitled to free treatment on the NHS in all departments.

Stay safe [ edit ]

It is unlikely you'll experience any problems in Plymouth as long as you use common sense. Although certainly not the most dangerous of British cities, Plymouth has several areas which are best avoided at night, especially if you are alone. These include the area around Union Street late at night, where drinkers can get rowdy and the atmosphere can be unpleasant. It is not unusual to see drunken brawls in the Union Street area after dark. For this reason there is generally a police presence there at night.

The city has always struggled with a degree of social deprivation, with salaries still well below the national average and surrounding 'destination' towns and resorts in Devon & Cornwall themselves often patronised by incomers from wealthier regions. Beggars sometimes hang around the city centre. If asked, do not give them any money as this exacerbates the problem and your money is likely to be spent on alcohol or drugs. Avoid making eye contact with them, and if you are asked to "spare a little change please", just keep walking by while you offer a firm but polite "not today" or "no, sorry". The main police station is at Charles Cross.

Go next [ edit ]

• Take a boat from the Barbican in Plymouth to Cawsand, a small and very picturesque village just across the Sound in Cornwall (30 minutes). Cawsand has a small stony beach and nice pubs and cafes. From there you can walk through along the stunning South West Coastal Path via the sandy beach at Whitesand Bay, past the ancient windswept chapel at Rame Head and Napoleonic fortifications and through the beautiful 18th-century landscape of Mount Edgcumbe country park (3–4 miles) to Cremyll. You can take the Cremyll ferry back to Plymouth (get a timetable from the Tourist Information Office, but they're fairly frequent for the 10-minute trip). A fantastic day out. If you want a map, the Tourist Information Office have some or try Ordnance Survey Explorer 108 (Lower Tamar Valley and Plymouth)
• Take a bus to Wembury and walk back into Plymouth along the South West Coastal Path an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Scenically tucked away nearby are Noss Mayo and Newton Ferrers (30-min drive from Plymouth), a plutocratic ex-fishing village with a couple of well-sited up-market foody pubs by a crook in the river.
• Canoe tours Tamar Trails are a beautiful way to explore the magical winding Tamar Valley and depart from nearby Callington where you can also visit National Trust Property Cotehele, the ancient seat of the Edgcumb family.
• Antony House and Pentillie are nearby country estates in Cornwall open to visitors ; National Trust Saltram House is in Plympton, Devon with extensive landscaped gardens overlooking the Plym at Laira.
• Walk further along the South West Coastal Path. As a map try the A-Z Adventure South West Coast Path series (you can get these from city bookstores or the Tourist Information Centre at the Barbican), or an Ordnance Survey Explorer map for the area you plan to walk (e.g. Ordnance Survey Explorer 108 - Lower Tamar Valley and Plymouth).
• Try the beautiful coastal walk from Polperro to Looe (or vice versa).
• Tavistock is an attractive, historic tin-miners' town and is a good place to set as a hub for visiting Dartmoor . It can be reached by taking bus, number 83, 84 or 86. It also has an amazingly good cheese shop, [2] .
• The cathedral cities of Truro , in Cornwall (1 hr 30 min drive, from 1-hr train; from £8 adult return), and Exeter (40-min drive, or 1-hr train; £7 adult return, or 'fast' bus from Plymouth taking around 1 hr 20 min) are worth a visit.
• About a 20-minute drive north will take you into Dartmoor National Park , where some fantastic views and walks are to be had. A good first stop would be in Princetown where the tourist information office will give you details on some recommended walks close by.
• Dartmouth a scenic town with the Royal Naval College and restaurants including the Carved Angel.
• Totnes , Salcombe and Kingsbridge are notably upmarket, bohemian communities of the South Hams to the east of the city with good restaurants and a foody, crafty, culture centred around Dartington Hall. Local wine and cheese production amid the fertile green coombes can be found at the well-known Sharpham Estate near Loddiswell.
• The Plymouth suburban rail services, such as they are, predominantly continue out of town up the Tamar Valley to the former mining districts around Calstock and Gunnislake. The journey is remarkably sedate (and therefore infrequent, since one train operates a shuttle all day), the scenery magnificent, the fares reasonable and the destination interesting. Gunnislake has good walking country, albeit with a lot of minor roads rather than minor paths, and the pubs are mostly worth a visit. There is a RailAle Trail for those planning this last option, which offers discounts on the drinks and urges responsible consumption. Owing to the rural nature of most of the line and the poor service offered to the urban stations, traffic levels are low and getting a seat will rarely be an issue for most of the day. It is a little-known route, so good for those wishing to avoid tourist hotspots.

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Navigation menu

Mayflower II will travel through Cape Cod Canal soon. Here's how you can track the ship.

As long as tides and weather cooperate, the Mayflower II will be homeward bound from the Mystic Seaport on April 10, setting off at about 10:30 a.m., according to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums .

For anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of the tall ship traversing the Cape Cod Canal on the way to her home berth alongside State Pier at Pilgrim Memorial State Park in Plymouth, her progress can be tracked by visiting www.tinyurl.com/trackMayflower2 , a service of marinetraffic.com.

Once it leaves the seaport, the Mayflower II will travel non-stop to Plymouth Harbor. The journey, approximately 78 miles, will take about 20 to 25 hours. It's possible its passage through the canal could begin in the early morning hours of April 11.

"We will give an ETA once the ship actually gets underway and we are better able to determine," said Plimoth Patuxet Director of Marketing & Communications Rob Kluin .  

Although it may traverse the canal while it is still dark, with the lighting that exists along the waterway, spectators would still be able to see the ship as it passes through, according to Kluin. It will take the ship about an hour to traverse the canal.

The 102-foot wooden vessel will not be under sail — the sails have yet to be bent onto the yards, Kluin said — but will instead be towed the entire way by Stasinos Marine out of Weymouth, Kluin said. It will be crewed by the Plimoth Patuxet maritime preservation and operations team led by Capt. Whit Perry. They will not be in period costumes for the voyage.

The crew recently completed up-rigging the ship — putting up spars, blocks and rigging — in preparation for her trip home, according to a post on the Plimoth Patuxet Museums' Facebook page .

The 67-year-old ship, a full-scale reproduction of the vessel that brought the first European immigrants to the shores of Patuxet more than 400 years ago, has been in dry dock at the Henry B. duPont Preservation Shipyard in Mystic, Connecticut since arriving there Dec. 1. Over the winter, it underwent routine maintenance, including cleaning the bottom, painting and caulking the seams. The work was funded by a Save America's Treasures grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services .

The travel schedule is subject to change, depending on tide, weather and other factors. The Plimoth Patuxet Museums will also have updates on its Facebook page .

Mayflower II is slated to be open to the public at her Plymouth berth starting at 9 a.m. on April 13. According to Plimoth Patuxet Museums Executive Director Ellie Donovan, the ship has seen millions of visitors from around the world since it arrived in Plymouth as a gift to the museum from England in 1957.

“We are thankful for IMLS recognizing the importance of this treasured landmark and for helping to ensure she will be preserved for generations to come," Donovan said.

Heather McCarron can be r eached at [email protected] , or follow her on X @HMcCarron_CCT

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