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
Festive Fizz Wine Tasting with Elly Owen
Wine Club with Elly Owen Join us for and evening of Festive Fizz Wine Tasting with Wine Expert and…
Land Sea Sky: Ingrid Pollard, JMW Turner & Vija Celmins
Exhibition open 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays. JMW Turner's expressive…
Osman Yousefzada - When will we be good enough?
Open 10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays 'Power doesn't die, it reinvents…
Paul Rooney - Broken Token
A single female voice sings a folk ballad, inspired by a page found in a Victorian folk song…
Planet Ocean
10am-5pm Tuesday-Sunday and selected bank holidays (not open on Good Friday or Monday 27 May 2024)…
Plymouth Remembrance Festival
Remembrance Festival held yearly organised by The Federation of Plymouth & District Ex Services…
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer's Best Works
⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to…
Budokon Yoga at The Aquarium
'Budokon' is Japanese for "the way of the warrior spirit". The Budokon style is…
Plymouth City Centre Christmas Lights Switch On
Christmas in Plymouth begins on Thursday 14 November as the city centre is lit up for the holiday…
Plymouth's Christmas Lights Switch On
Christmas in Plymouth starts with the switch-on of the Christmas lights on Thursday 14 November…
Plymouth's Winter Wonderland
Plymouth's Winter Wonderland Returns, Bigger and Brighter Than Ever! Plymouth, get ready to deck…
Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On in Plymouth
Join us on Saturday 16 November for the wonderful Christmas lights switch-on with an…
Candlelight: Tribute to Queen
⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to…
Saltram night before Christmas
'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through Saltram's house, not a creature was…
The Three Musketeers - touring theatre -PLYMOUTH Muse Theatre
Taking place at The Muse Theatre Lipson Co-operative Academy campus, Bernice Terrace, Plymouth, PL4…
Christmas Calligraphy
Join Lyndsey from Wild Sea Calligraphy to learn how to create basic shapes with a calligraphy pen. A…
Plymouth Christmas Market
Plymouth Christmas Market brings all the festive sights, smells and atmosphere to the city centre…
Plymouth Christmas Market
Plymouth Christmas Market brings all the festive sites, smells and atmosphere to the city centre…
The Best of Grohl - Walkabout, Plymouth
Come and rock out at Walkabout Plymouth with the ultimate live show featuring Best of Grohl! Get…
Ashtanga Yoga at The Aquarium
Our dynamic and energetic Ashtanga Yoga is perfect for those who want to work out and enjoy within a…
See more Plymouth on our blog
SeaFest 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 MoreSink your teeth into Shark Month at Royal William Yard
- 3 minute read
Shark Week is a renowned cultural phenomenon – but Plymouth is getting bigger and better this summer by welcoming Shark Month to Royal William Yard this July. The month-long celebration is a partnership with the Shark Trust, a leading international conservation charity, based in Britain’s Ocean…
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