Plymouth
Why we love Plymouth
Plymouth is a cultural hub filled with award-winning museums and waterfront attractions. Dive into the depths of Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium, be immersed in the wonders of the National Marine Park and stroll through the cobbled streets of its picturesque old port, the Barbican. From discovering Pilgrim life aboard the Mayflower to embracing the natural world, there’s a wealth of adventure to be had in Plymouth.
National Marine Aquarium
Dive into the UK’s largest aquarium in Plymouth for an underwater exploration like no other. Spy over 4000 sea creatures and take a watery journey through the world’s oceans, from the brisk Atlantic to the colourful Great Barrier Reef. For a full-on immersive experience, pick up a snorkel and head beneath the surface, or dine under the bubbles of the Eddystone and Atlantic Ocean exhibits.
Cook your Catch at The Hook & Line
Set out from Royal William Yard for a foodie voyage like no other. You’ll be (hopefully) catching your own mackerel out at sea and returning to The Hook and Line to cook it up yourself. There may be opportunity to catch other fish as well, including the likes of herring, pollock and conger eel.
Plymouth Gin Distillery Tour
Take a tour of the oldest working gin distillery in England at Plymouth Gin’s historic Black Friars Distillery, a landmark building. Learn the ancient secrets of making gin, using the same recipe since 1793 and sample some of the many flavours of this ancient distillery in the Barbican, Plymouth. There are different types of tours to choose, then finish with a drink at the Refectory Bar.
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Explore Plymouth Hoe, a clifftop spot offering panoramic views of the coastline and Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse.
Wander the cobbled streets of the Barbican, a historic harbour area, home to independent shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.
Tour the National Marine Aquarium, the UK’s largest aquarium, featuring displays of marine life, from sharks to seahorses.
Retrace the steps of the Pilgrims who sailed on the Mayflower to the New World in 1620, at landmarks like the Mayflower Steps and the Mayflower Museum.
Fun Fact
Fun Fact
Plymouth is home to the oldest working gin distillery in England. The Plymouth Gin Distillery, operating since 1793, still produces gin using traditional methods, and offers tours and tastings.
Did you know?
Did you know?
- Plymouth was the departure point for the Mayflower voyage in 1620, with the Pilgrims embarking on their historic journey to America.
- The National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is the UK’s largest aquarium, housing more than 4,000 sea creatures and the deepest tank in the country.
- Plymouth was home to explorers Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Francis Drake. According to legend, Sir Francis Drake’s drum, kept at Buckland Abbey, will beat if England is in peril and Drake’s spirit is needed to defend the country.
- Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre offers kayaking and SUP sessions for all ages, providing an opportunity to explore Plymouth’s coastline from the water.
- Royal William Yard and the Plymouth coastline have appeared in several period dramas, including Hornblower (1998), set during the Napoleonic Wars, and War Horse (2012).
Things to do in Plymouth
Featured things to do
On the water with Plymouth Boat Trips
Whether it’s a scenic cruise past Drakes Island, a romantic sunset sail, or a journey out to Tamar Valley, there’s a whole host of ways to see Plymouth and beyond from its waters.
Ride the waves of Plymouth
Swim at shoreside Tinside Lido
You’ll be making a splash in a unique location at this art-deco style lido that comes with impressive sea views. Relax on the sun desk before taking a dip in the saltwater pool.
Dip into Tinside Lido
Explore culture at The Box
One for the creatives, the art-fiends and culture lovers, visit the museum and art gallery for exhibitions, galleries, and collections.
Step into art at The Box
Feel theatrical at the Theatre Royal Plymouth
It’s all centre stage at the Theatre Royal. Sit back and enjoy the show as actors take the limelight in a play, musical, opera and more. Look out for festive shows during December.
Catch a play at Theatre Royal PlymouthPlaces to stay in Plymouth
City Centre
Filled with internationally recognised hotel brands, restored historic buildings and budget-friendly options, a stay in Plymouth’s city centre is a must for all culture vultures.
The Waterfront
From the renowned Royal William Yard to the cobbled streets of the Barbican, the Waterfront is the perfect blend of history and vibrant city living.
Tamar Valley
Escape into the wild with a stay in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From farm stays, camping and rooms in countryside homes, there’s something for everyone.
Explore nearby
Getting to Plymouth
Located in southwest England, the port city of Plymouth sits on the south coast of Devon. Plymouth is easily accessible by road, rail, ferry, and air.
Bristol Airport is the nearest major international flight hub, connecting to more than 100 destinations. Brittany Ferries also serve the city from France and Spain. Train services from London to Plymouth via Great Western Railway take around three hours, while Stagecoach offers connections to surrounding areas, including Bristol Airport and Exeter. Flixbus also operates a route between Plymouth and London.
Getting around
By foot
Exploring the city and beyond by foot is a great way to see the sights at your own pace.
By water
Plymouth’s Waterlinks have taxis and ferries that run to areas including the Mayflower Steps.
By Bike
Bike and scooter hire provide a different way to get in some sightseeing. Download the Plymouth Cycle Map as a handy guide.
Want to know more?
Want to know more?
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