Plymouth in 3 Days: Fun, Family-Friendly Adventure

A fun-filled family adventure awaits in vibrant Plymouth, UK!

19 July 2023

Plymouth, located on the beautiful south coast of England, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich maritime history, you can explore the historic Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrims embarked on their famous voyage. The city also offers kid-friendly attractions like the National Marine Aquarium and beautiful sandy beaches, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable trip for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Sea, Sweets, and Swagger

  • Kickstart your Plymouth adventure with a stay at the charming Duke of Cornwall Hotel, oozing with Victorian elegance and family-friendly comforts.
  • Take a brisk stroll along the Barbican, Plymouth's historic waterfront district, and soak in the salty sea air while admiring picturesque views of colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor.
  • Dive into a sugary world at Plymouth Gin Distillery, where you can savor the lip-smacking tastes of their award-winning artisanal gins. Don't miss the tour for a behind-the-scenes peek into the gin-making magic!
  • Head to The Waterfront, a lively eatery overlooking the Sutton Harbor, to feast on locally sourced seafood delights like fish and chips or mouthwatering crab linguine.
  • After dinner, embrace Plymouth's rebellious spirit with a visit to The Barbican Theatre, known for its boundary-pushing performances and unique cultural offerings.
Day 2

Pirates, Pies, and Pilgrims

  • Explore the National Marine Aquarium, where captivating underwater creatures from around the globe will leave you awestruck. Get up-close with mesmerizing sharks, graceful rays, and even the mysterious seahorses.
  • Set sail on a jaunty boat trip to nearby Burgh Island, a hidden paradise loved by smugglers and pirates throughout history. Don't forget to visit The Pilchard Inn, a rustic pub with an intriguing past and scrumptious Devonshire pies.
  • A visit to the world-renowned Plymouth Museum is a must! Unravel Plymouth's rich maritime heritage, uncover ancient treasures, and learn about the pilgrims' epic Mayflower voyage.
  • For an evening treat, venture to Jacka Bakery, England's oldest working bakery. Tantalize your taste buds with their famous Devon pasties or satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional cream teas.
  • Experience a magical sunset at Plymouth Hoe, a promenade boasting breathtaking views of the Plymouth Sound. Gaze at the iconic Smeaton's Tower lighthouse and toast to an incredible day in this captivating coastal city.
Day 3

Art, Adventure, and Alfresco

  • Start your day with a visit to the landmark Plymouth Gin Distillery, but this time, join a mixology masterclass to learn the art of crafting your own bespoke gin concoctions.
  • Continue your creative journey at The Box, a vibrant cultural center that houses a treasure trove of art, history, and natural science exhibits. Immerse yourself in thought-provoking installations and revel in the city's artistic flair.
  • Embark on an exhilarating outdoor adventure at Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, just a short ferry ride from the city. Roam through enchanting gardens, conquer the climbing wall, or try your hand at archery with the family.
  • Indulge in a picnic lunch amidst the park's idyllic settings or grab a bite at The Orangery, a charming café offering delicious treats and delightful views.
  • Unwind in style at The Terrace, a trendy rooftop bar offering panoramic vistas of Plymouth's beautiful skyline. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail as the sun sets, bidding farewell to this captivating coastal gem before heading home with memories to treasure.

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.

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