Explore Plymouth
Full of fascinating maritime history and known as Britain's Ocean City, 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
Forbidden Territories: 100 Years of Surreal Landscapes
Surrealism was one of the most influential artistic, intellectual and literary movements of the 20th…
Jyll Bradley: Running and Returning
Over the years Jyll Bradley has become widely known for her light installations and minimalist…
Zebra Shark Experience at the Aquarium
Experience a NEW adventure and come face to face with our Zebra Shark, Zeus! Join us for a guided…
BABY BUBBLES: THE MAGIC GARDEN
Baby Bubble: Sensory Storytelling for Little Ones Step into the enchanting world of Baby Bubbles at…
Strength of Spirit Game - Rehabilitation Triathlon
The Strength of Spirit Games - Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy, is back on…
Plymouth Armed Forces Day
Plymouth Armed Forces Day will be returning to Plymouth Hoe on Saturday 28 June 2025, with a…
Plymouth Armed Forces Day
Plymouth Armed Forces Day will be returning on Saturday 29 June 2024, with an exciting day for…
Tamar Valley Vineyard Guided Tour
Enjoy a guided tour around Tamar Valley Vineyard to hear about the history and nature of the valley…
Wimbledon on the Big Screen
Wimbledon returns to Plymouth city centre this summer with an exciting twist – live tennis…
Devon Heli Hike
Save lives one step at a time when you take part in the Devon Heli Hike: our 2025 walking challenge!…
Wood fired oven Feast
A Birland Feasts shared dining experience on the Bere Peninsula in the Tamar Valley. You are welcome…
St Luke's Midnight Walk 2025
Join us to remember together on Friday 11 July as our iconic Midnight Walk returns for 2025…
Le Pique-nique
A Birland Feasts shared dining experience on the Bere Peninsula in the Tamar Valley. You are welcome…
The Police 3.0
Professional trio bringing The Police & Sting's greatest hits to life, we deliver…
Sounds of the World Festival
Come join us for a musical journey around the globe with Pogo Events at Home Parks open air venue in…
British Firework Championships
The beloved British Firework Championships return to Plymouth on 14 and 15 August 2024. Look to the…
Acronyms Tamar 10k
Take on the Acronyms Tamar 10k! A unique closed-road event offering the chance to run between Devon…
The Best of Williams and Zimmer
The two giants of film composition - head to head! Experience movie magic with the BSO as they…
Festive Afternoon Tea
Celebrate this festive period with an elegant afternoon tea experience at Boringdon Hall, where…
Christmas Wreath Making Workshops
Join us for our Christmas Wreath Making Workshop in partnership with local award-winning florist…
See more Plymouth on our blog
Explore the surreal and take part in The Box’s 2025 Children and Young People’s Art Competition
- 2 minute read
Calling all young budding artists from across Devon! How would you like to have your work displayed alongside famous names like Man Ray and Salvador Dali? The Box, in partnership with Arts University Plymouth, has launched its annual Children and Young People’s Art Competition, and this…
Learn MoreSeaFest set to sail into Royal William Yard this September
- 5 minute read
The celebration of Plymouth’s waterfront is back – bigger and better this year thanks to a new partnership between Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and Plymouth Waterfront Partnership – and the festival will return to Royal William Yard, with a packed programme planned.
Learn MoreNew Afternoon Tea at Historic Devon Hotel Fit for Royalty
- 2 minute read
A new Champagne Afternoon Tea experience will be served at Boringdon Hall Hotel this summer letting visitors indulge in the British teatime tradition. Bookings are open now for the experience which runs until Saturday 31st August. Take tea outside on the lawn or inside the Great Hall at 5-star…
Learn MoreSummer, Sorted. Free family activities every weekend at Royal William Yard
- 6 minute read
Families can head to Plymouth’s waterfront this summer for a series of free activities every Saturday and Sunday in August at Royal William Yard. Something for everyone, children can get creative with craft sessions, puppet making and open-air children's theatre, and they can get active with…
Learn MoreShark arrives at Royal William Yard
- 3 minute read
A shark has been spotted approaching Royal William Yard in Plymouth, much to the surprise of swimmers, paddleboarders and onlookers. With its distinctive dorsal fin cutting through the water, the sizeable shark swam along the coastline, before turning to head inland towards Firestone Arch at Royal…
Learn More