Plymouth
Discover Plymouth: A Historic Coastal Gem
Plymouth, located on the stunning south coast of Devon, England, is a vibrant waterfront city brimming with history, culture, and breathtaking seascapes. Whether you're drawn to its rich maritime heritage, diverse attractions, or lively food scene, Plymouth offers something for every traveller.
Top Attractions in Plymouth
Plymouth is home to iconic landmarks and must-visit attractions that captivate visitors of all ages:
The Hoe – A picturesque waterfront park offering stunning panoramic views of Plymouth Sound and the historic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse.
The Barbican & Mayflower Steps – Wander through cobbled streets, admire Tudor-era buildings, and visit the historic site where the Pilgrims set sail for America.
Royal William Yard – Once a naval supply depot, now a vibrant hub of restaurants, bars, and cultural events.
National Marine Aquarium – The UK’s largest aquarium, showcasing diverse marine life and interactive exhibits.
Mount Edgcumbe House & Country Park – A breathtaking coastal estate with gardens, scenic walking trails, and historic architecture.
Things to Do in Plymouth
Looking for adventure or relaxation? Plymouth has it all:
Outdoor Activities – Enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and scenic boat trips around Plymouth Sound.
Cultural Experiences – Visit The Box, Plymouth’s world-class museum and gallery, featuring exhibitions on local history and global connections.
Dining & Nightlife – Savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, explore traditional British pubs, or enjoy fine dining experiences.
Family Fun – Take the kids to the National Marine Aquarium, explore local parks, or enjoy interactive activities at the Mayflower Museum.
Shopping – Discover independent boutiques in The Barbican or visit Drake Circus, Plymouth’s premier shopping destination.
Plymouth Highlights
Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa
Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa is a 5* luxury manor house spa hotel in Devon where style and…
Bovisand Lodge Heritage Apartments
Bovisand Lodge Heritage Apartments: Luxury Stays in South Devon Bovisand Lodge Heritage…
Bovisand Lodge Holiday Park
Bovisand Lodge Holiday Park: 4-Star Beachside Escape in South Devon About Bovisand Lodge Holiday…
Feed the Turtle at The National Marine Aquarium
THIS UNQIUE EXPERIENCE LETS YOU FEED FRIDAY, OUR GREEN SEA TURTLE, FROM THE TOP OF THE UK’S…
National Marine Aquarium
Visit the UK's largest Aquarium and be fascinated by an underwater world. All day tickets come…
Plymouth Gin
The home of Plymouth Gin offers gin fans a chance to visit an English distillery at any time of…
Snorkel at The National Marine Aquarium
Snorkel at The Aquarium SNORKEL AT THE AQUARIUM LET YOU IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE NATIONAL…
The Box - Plymouth
The Box, Plymouth’s major new museum, gallery and archive, opened in late 2020 and is one of…
The Refectory Bar at Plymouth Gin
The home of Plymouth Gin offers gin fans a chance to visit an English distillery at any time of…
Visit Plymouth
Full of fascinating maritime history and known as Britain's Ocean History, Plymouth is one of…
Àclèaf
Overlooking the Great Hall at Boringdon Hall, you’ll find the 4 AA Rosette, Michelin-starred…
Must see events in Plymouth
Plymouth hosts exciting events throughout the year, making it a fantastic destination in any season. However, the best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is warm and outdoor festivities are at their peak. Here are some key events to look forward to:
Plymouth Pirate Weekend (May) – A family-friendly event filled with swashbuckling fun, pirate parades, and live entertainment along the historic Barbican.
Plymouth Armed Forces Day (June) – A tribute to the UK’s military, featuring spectacular air displays, interactive exhibits, and live music.
Plymouth Summer Sessions (July) – A vibrant music festival bringing top artists to perform by the waterfront.
British Firework Championships (August) – A breathtaking two-night fireworks competition lighting up Plymouth Sound.
Plymouth Seafood Festival (September) – A celebration of the city’s maritime heritage with fresh seafood, live cooking demonstrations, and local produce.
How to Get to Plymouth
Plymouth is well-connected by:
Train – Direct routes from London, Exeter, and Bristol.
Car – Easy access via the A38 from the M5.
Ferry – International ferry connections to France and Spain.
Coach & Bus – Regular services from major UK cities.
Why Plymouth is a Must-Visit Destination
With its rich history, diverse attractions, and stunning coastal scenery, Plymouth is a must-visit city for travelers looking to experience a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you're exploring its maritime past, indulging in fresh seafood, or taking in breathtaking ocean views, Plymouth promises an unforgettable trip.
Where to park in Plymouth
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Plymouth have a beach?
Plymouth is surrounded by beaches - the closest sandy beaches are Bovisand and Wembury, which are just 15 minutes from the city centre by car.
Bovisand beach is a sandy beach and is popular with visitors, especially those that like swimming, it is within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and can be accessed via the South West Coast Path. Dogs not allowed May 1st to September 30th, when a seasonal ban is in place.
Wembury is managed by the National Trust and can be accessed via the South West Coast Path, the beach is a mixture of pebbles and sand and there is a historic mill and a marine centre for visitors to explore.
Find out more to do around Plymouth here.
Can you get to Plymouth by train?
Plymouth has its own train station which is managed by GWR, travelling from London takes around 3 hours via train. You can travel around Devon using the rail network, as there are connections to and from Plymouth across the county. This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform and has staff on hand should you have any additional access needs.
Find more information about travelling to and from Plymouth by train
Can you fly to Plymouth?
Plymouth does not have its own airport, but there are three within easy distance. Exeter airport is around an hour away, while Bristol airport is 2 hours and Newquay airport is just over an hour away. From Exeter airport, there are several transport links to help you with your onward journey.
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