Weekend Fun in Plymouth: Coastal Charm & History

Explore the historic port city of Plymouth, where tradition and innovation converge.

03 May 2023

As a tourist visiting Plymouth, you can explore the rich maritime history of the city, including a visit to the Royal William Yard, where you can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and events. You can also take a stroll along Plymouth Hoe, which provides stunning views of the city's harbor and landmarks such as Smeaton's Tower. Finally, you can explore the cultural offerings of Plymouth, including the Plymouth Gin Distillery and the Theatre Royal.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Historic Plymouth

  • 1. Check into the elegant Duke of Cornwall Hotel, a landmark building dating back to the 19th century
  • 2. Head to the Royal Citadel, a grand fortification that dates back to the 1660s, and take in the stunning views of the harbor
  • 3. Explore the cobbled streets of the Barbican, filled with quaint shops and atmospheric pubs, and visit the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America
  • 4. Stop for lunch at the award-winning Quay 33, located on the historic quayside, for some delicious fresh seafood
  • 5. Visit the National Marine Aquarium to see a fascinating variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles and stingrays
  • 6. Finish the day with a trip to the Theatre Royal, one of the oldest working theaters in the country, for a show or a tour of the venue
Day 2

Relaxing by the Coast

  • 1. Enjoy a lazy lie-in at the iconic Plymouth Hoe, a green space overlooking the sea and the perfect place to watch the world go by
  • 2. Have brunch at the quirky Box and Barber café, which serves up delicious food and unique grooming services in the same venue
  • 3. Take a stroll along the stunning South West Coast Path, enjoying the rugged coastline and fresh sea air
  • 4. Stop for a pint of ale at the atmospheric Dolphin Inn, a historic pub that dates back to the 16th century
  • 5. Visit the Royal William Yard, a former naval yard that has been converted into a trendy complex of restaurants, bars and galleries
  • 6. End the day with dinner at the stylish Pier One restaurant, sampling their delicious modern British cuisine and watching the sunset over the harbor.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Plymouth by plane is to fly into Exeter International Airport, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Plymouth. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to Plymouth.

Car

Plymouth can be reached by car via the M5 motorway. If you are traveling from London or the southeast, take the M4 west, then join the M5 southbound. The journey time from London is approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic.

Train

Plymouth can be reached by train via the Plymouth railway station, which is located in the city center. Trains from London Paddington and other major UK cities run frequently to Plymouth. The journey time from London is approximately 3 hours.

Boat

Plymouth has a ferry port with regular services to France and Spain. Brittany Ferries operates a range of crossings from Plymouth to Roscoff, Santander, and Bilbao. The port is located in Millbay, just a short walk from the city center.

Bus

National Express coaches run to Plymouth from various UK cities, including London, Bristol, and Manchester. The journey time from London is approximately 5 hours.

Destination

Plymouth

Tired of being stuck in the traffic of bigger cities? Welcome to Plymouth, where even the busiest intersection is just a roundabout in disguise.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Maritime Marvels: A 2-Day Family-Friendly Plymouth Escape!

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Plymouth in 3 Days: Fun, Family-Friendly Adventure

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Weekend Fun in Plymouth: Coastal Charm & History

As a tourist visiting Plymouth, you can explore the rich maritime history of the city, including a visit to the Royal William Yard, where you can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and events. You can also take a stroll along Plymouth Hoe, which provides stunning views of the city's harbor and landmarks such as Smeaton's Tower. Finally, you can explore the cultural offerings of Plymouth, including the Plymouth Gin Distillery and the Theatre Royal.