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, cafes 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.
Plymouth Events
Beyond the Page: South Asian Miniature Painting and Britain, 1600 to Now
'Beyond the Page' includes a fantastic selection of historic works featuring battle scenes…
John Akomfrah: Arcadia
10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays Experience the UK premiere of a major new…
Ocean Todds At The Aquarium
JOIN OUR OCEAN DISCOVERY RANGERS ON TUESDAY & FRIDAY MORNINGS, AND DISCOVER YOUR LOVE FOR THE…
Planet Ocean
10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays (not open on Good Friday or Monday 27 May 2024)…
Yinka Shonibare CBE RA: End of Empire
Commissioned by 14-18 NOW, 'End of Empire' features two dapper figures with globe heads on a…
Pogo Presents: Samantics
★ Pogo Presents: Samantics and Chris Bailey★ Samantics is a one man machine of honesty, energy…
Family Fun: Life Underwater
Tuesday 2-Thursday 4 April Tuesday 9-Thursday 11 April 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm Last…
Yoga at the Aquarium
Immerse yourself with a variety of yoga classes in front of the stunning tanks at the National…
Family Silent Disco: Under the Sea
Bring your little ones in and strut your stuff to some fab tunes on our dance floor underneath the…
Ocean City Clean-Ups with The Ocean Conservation Trust
Come along to these two hour drop-in events to help clean up Plymouth's Waterfront and become…
Men's Day Out 2024
March memorable miles to support St Luke's expert care It's an unmissable mix of miles…
Boat Trip with the Ocean Conservation Trust
The Ocean Conservation Trust are exploring the UK's first National Marine Park, setting sail on…
Wild Food Forage and Feast – Spring Family Forage
Pick up some ancient knowledge and learn to forage food from the wild with Forager Trudy Turrell…
Sleeping With Sharks
Join the National Marine Aquarium in an unforgettable sleepover, where guests will get to experience…
Snorkel At The Aquarium
For the first time, guests are able to experience the aquarium like never before. Climb into the…
Pogo Presents: The Cabarats
★ Pogo Presents: The Cabarats ★ Ska / Eastern-European / Reggae / World An unorthodox quintet on a…
Royal Navy v Royal Air Force
Inter Service Championship Rugby returns to Brickfields Stadium, Plymouth, on Saturday, 20 April…
Plymouth Street Food Festival
Plymouth Street Food Festival is BACK for four days of food and drink-fuelled family fun! Over the…
Plymouth Pirates Weekend
Enjoy swashbuckling two days of fun inspired by the high seas as Plymouth Pirates Weekend returns on…
Flavour Fest
Plymouth’s food and drink extravaganza, Flavour Fest is set to celebrate 20 fabulous years…
See more Plymouth on our blog
Plymouth restaurant welcomes charity for free dinner
- 2 minute read
Thirty selected guests from a local charity enjoyed a free three-course dinner at favourite French high street restaurant Bistrot Pierre this week, paid for by loyal customers. As part of its annual Christmas initiative to support charity workers and those in need of support within the community…
Learn MoreLove is all around at Royal William Yard: What's on offer this Valentine's Day
- 3 minute read
Thriving waterside destination, Plymouth’s historic Royal William Yard has a whole host of things to do and delight in this Valentine’s Day. From dining experiences and artisan treats to luxury beauty treatments and overnight stays, there is plenty to enjoy with a loved one – including a romantic…
Learn MoreA brief guide to half term in Devon
- 6 minute read
Lucky enough to be heading to Devon this half term? There’s a whole host of fun and adventures to be had this February – don’t believe us? Here’s a brief guide to what you can enjoy in Devon this half term! During half term, why not get ready for Easter by joining the village of Clovelly for their…
Learn More10 things to do in Devon this year
- 4 minute read
Happy New Year! We hope you had a lovely start to 2024 so far and have plenty of exciting things planned for the rest of the year. If one of those exciting things is a trip or two to Devon, here are some of the top events taking place in 2024 that you certainly don’t want to miss! Devon County Show…
Learn MoreBest places for Veganuary
- 2 minute read
After the indulgence of Christmas, you might be looking to make a change and enjoy some new dishes – in which case, why not take part in Veganuary? This annual movement is a challenge to be vegan for the month of January, gives you a chance to explore food in a whole new way and try some interesting…
Learn More