If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Plymouth, you’re in the right place. I spent six months living in the city and absolutely loved exploring everything it has to offer, from historic sites to vibrant waterfront spots.
Known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth is steeped in maritime history. While it was once filled with Victorian and Georgian architecture, large bombing raids during the Second World War and post-war rebuilding have left the city with a fascinating mix of architectural styles — from historic remnants to classic mid-20th-century buildings.
Below is my list of the top things to do in Plymouth to help you make the most of your visit.
1 | Wander the Barbican
It was tough choosing a number-one spot, but the Barbican rightfully takes the crown. As the historic heart of Plymouth—and one of the few areas to survive the heavy bombings of WWII—the Barbican is overflowing with character. Think cobbled streets, colourful historic buildings, and a postcard-worthy marina.
During my time living in Plymouth, this was the one place that never lost its charm no matter how often I visited. It’s home to several must-see attractions on this list, including the famous Plymouth Gin Distillery, the National Marine Aquarium, and the departure point for many harbour and coastal boat trips. You’ll also find the Mayflower Steps and Museum here, which tells the story of the Pilgrims’ 1620 voyage to America, as well as Jacka Bakery—the oldest working bakery in the UK.
Evenings on the Barbican are electric. The waterfront is lined with some of Plymouth’s best bars and clubs, many offering heated outdoor seating and regular live music from talented local artists. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink, enjoy a meal, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
2 | Relax on the Hoe
Just a short stroll from the Barbican is Plymouth Hoe—an iconic waterfront park overlooking Plymouth Sound. It’s one of the city’s most scenic locations and home to several landmarks: the Sir Francis Drake statue, the Naval Memorial, the historic Royal Citadel, and the unmistakable red-and-white Smeaton’s Tower.
Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake was playing a casual game of bowls on the Hoe when he learned of the approaching Spanish Armada… and insisted on finishing his match before defeating them.
On a sunny day, the views across the Sound are unbeatable—especially at sunset. Bring a drink, some snacks or a BBQ, and settle into the grass for one of the most relaxing evenings you’ll have in Plymouth.
The Hoe also hosts the annual British Firework Championships every August. If your visit lines up with the event, don’t miss it—the atmosphere is incredible.
3 | Explore Mount Edgcumbe
Although technically across the border in Cornwall, Mount Edgcumbe is just a short ferry ride from Royal William Yard and makes for the perfect quick escape into nature. Once the ancestral home of the Edgcumbe family, the estate is now open to the public and offers miles of coastal trails, woodland walks, landscaped gardens, and panoramic viewpoints.
Whether you choose to explore the historic house, wander through the parkland, or follow the coast path to the folly or nearby villages, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers.
You can also upgrade your visit with unique experiences—such as outdoor saunas, seasonal events, or local festivals hosted on the grounds throughout the year.
4 | Visit Royal William Yard
A highlight of any Plymouth trip, Royal William Yard is a remarkable 19th-century victualling yard—and home to the largest collection of Grade I listed military buildings in Europe. Though steeped in history, the Yard today has transformed into a vibrant hub of waterfront restaurants, bars, shops, and events.
You can enjoy everything from casual brunch spots to fine dining, and even catch a film at the cosy boutique cinema on rainy days. For something more active, hire paddleboards, explore the scenic walk up and over Devil’s Point, or enjoy the live music and festivals that take place throughout the summer.
5 | Discover the Saltram Estate
If you approach Plymouth from the east, you’ll likely have driven past Saltram House without even realising it. Now owned by the National Trust, Saltram includes a beautifully preserved Georgian mansion, extensive landscaped gardens, and riverside parkland.
If you’re a National Trust member, the house and gardens are worth a visit. For a free alternative, take the scenic two-mile walking loop around the edge of the estate—perfect for a peaceful stroll along the estuary.
6 | Tour the Gin Distillery
Plymouth Gin is one of the most iconic gin brands in the world, and its distillery—right in the Barbican—is the oldest working gin distillery in England. The building itself dates back to the 1400s.
Tours walk you through the entire distillation process and finish with a tasting session: either the classic Plymouth Gin or the powerful Navy Strength if you’re feeling brave! This is an excellent all-weather activity and perfect to pair with a visit to the Barbican.
7 | Meet the Marine Life
The National Marine Aquarium is the largest public aquarium in the UK and home to more than 5,000 marine animals. Its star attraction, the Atlantic Tank, is the biggest tank in the country and features sharks, rays, and huge shoals of fish moving as one—an amazing sight for all ages.
Located just a short walk from the Barbican, the aquarium is a great rainy-day option and one of the top family-friendly activities in Plymouth.
8 | Catch a Boat Ride
Just a short stroll from the Barbican and the historic Mayflower Steps is the Plymouth Landing Stage—the hub for Plymouth Boat Trips. From here, you can hop aboard a variety of cruises that explore the coastline and waterways surrounding the city.
One of the most popular options is the 1-hour harbour cruise, which offers a fascinating look into Plymouth’s rich maritime history, including views of the largest naval dockyard in Western Europe. You’ll also get a brilliant perspective of the city’s waterfront from the water.
If you’re looking for something a little longer, Plymouth Boat Trips also offers extended coastal cruises, fishing excursions, and convenient ferry services connecting different parts of the city. Whether you’re sightseeing, travelling, or simply enjoying a day on the water, it’s one of the best ways to experience Plymouth from a new angle.
9 | Cool Off at Tinside Lido
Tinside Lido is one of Plymouth’s most iconic attractions—a stunning art-deco, saltwater lido perched right on the waterfront of the Hoe. First opened in 1935, it was once a bustling seaside hotspot, though its popularity declined with the rise of package holidays abroad. After closing in 1992, it was restored and reopened in 2005, quickly becoming a favourite once again.
Open from May to September, the lido is the perfect summer activity. Thanks to the sun-warmed saltwater, temperatures can reach up to 24°C, making it an amazing place to cool off, relax, or sunbathe by the pool’s distinctive curved terraces. It’s an affordable, nostalgic, and refreshing way to spend a warm day in Plymouth.
Click here for updated opening times and prices.
10 | Step Inside The Box
A great rainy-day option in Plymouth is The Box, the city’s modern museum and gallery space. Home to around 2 million artefacts, it brings together history, art, natural science and contemporary exhibitions all under one roof.
You can explore everything from prehistoric collections and natural-history displays to photography, film archives and rotating art exhibitions. There’s also a café and shop on site, making it an easy place to spend a couple of hours.
Best of all, entry to the permanent galleries is free, so it’s a low-cost way to get a good feel for Plymouth’s heritage and creativity.
Planning Your Trip
Plymouth is an easy city to explore, and a bit of planning helps you get the best out of your visit. Here are a few quick tips to guide you before you go.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re choosing when to go, the period from April to October tends to offer the best weather and the most enjoyable experience overall. Plymouth does get busier in the height of summer, but I never found it overwhelming, so don’t let that put you off.
You can also plan your trip around one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year, including the British Firework Championships, Flavour Fest, SeaFest, the Green Man event, and others.
Click here for dates and event details.
Where to Stay
For a weekend trip, aim to stay near the University or Waterfront (around the Barbican and Hoe). Both areas are well-located for walking to the city’s main attractions and offer plenty of dining and transport options.
Getting Around Plymouth
One of the things that makes Plymouth so easy to explore is how walkable it is. Most of the attractions in this guide are within comfortable walking distance of each other.
If you’d rather not walk, there are frequent bus services in and out of the city centre, and plenty of parking options near the main sights. Ferries also run between different parts of the city, offering a scenic alternative to road travel.
Click here to see ferry routes and timetables.
Map of This Guide
To make planning simpler, I’ve included a map of the key sights and a few of my favourite places to eat and drink.
A Note on Dartmoor
Just outside the city sits Dartmoor National Park, an incredible place to escape into nature. It’s perfect for walking, wildlife spotting and exploring its dramatic landscapes.
Some areas of Dartmoor allow wild camping under right-to-roam rules, which is rare in England. Not all areas are covered, so check the most up-to-date camping map before pitching a tent. And of course, follow leave-no-trace principles so the moor stays as wild and beautiful as it should be.
Final Thoughts
I really enjoyed my time in Plymouth, and I hope this guide has helped you discover the best things to do in Plymouth during your trip. It’s a city with a lot going on — from its waterfront history to great food, lively events, and easy access to nature.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out my other travel blogs.
