Explore Plymouth
Discover Plymouth, the Ocean City
Plymouth, Devon, is a vibrant waterfront city where maritime heritage meets modern adventure. Known as Britain’s Ocean City, it offers spectacular sea views, historic landmarks, and a lively cultural scene. Whether you are planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Plymouth is the perfect destination to experience the best of South West England.
Top Attractions in Plymouth
From its famous Hoe overlooking Plymouth Sound to the cobbled streets of the Barbican, the city is filled with iconic sights:
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The Hoe and Smeaton’s Tower – Stunning views across the harbour and a historic lighthouse.
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Royal William Yard – Elegant Georgian buildings now home to restaurants, shops, and art spaces.
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The National Marine Aquarium – The UK’s largest aquarium, perfect for families.
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The Barbican and Sutton Harbour – Lively with cafes, pubs, and a touch of old-world charm.
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Mayflower Steps – A historic site marking the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers in 1620.
Things to Do in Plymouth
Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and waterfront relaxation:
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Explore coastal paths and nearby Dartmoor National Park.
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Enjoy boat trips, sailing, and kayaking on Plymouth Sound.
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Visit theatres, galleries, and the cultural hub at The Box museum.
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Shop in Drake Circus or discover unique boutiques in the city centre.
Food and Drink in Plymouth
Plymouth is a city for food lovers, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Sample local delicacies such as Devon crab, traditional pasties, and cream teas in harbourside cafes, or dine at award-winning restaurants with sea views.
Why Visit Plymouth, Devon?
With its mix of history, culture, and coastal beauty, Plymouth is a destination that leaves lasting memories. Whether you are tracing maritime heritage, exploring stunning landscapes, or enjoying a relaxed seaside break, Plymouth welcomes visitors year-round.
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 MoreFrequently 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.
Travel to Plymouth from Exeter Airport
