4 Days of Plymouth, UK: Heritage & Adventure

Explore the historic heart of England on your journey to Plymouth.

22 April 2023

A trip to Plymouth, UK as a tourist offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, exploration and relaxation. From the historic Barbican and the Royal William Yard to the breathtaking views from the Hoe, Plymouth is a city steeped in heritage, culture and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in maritime history, indulging in a spot of shopping or simply relaxing by the sea, Plymouth has something for everyone.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

Check into the Duke of Cornwall hotel, a former Victorian hotel with grandeur and charm.
Set off on foot to explore the cobbled streets of Barbican and Sutton Harbour.
Visit the National Marine Aquarium and get up close and personal with sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
Witness the beauty of the sapphire sea on a boat tour to the Plymouth Sound and around to the Royal William Yard.
Indulge in a traditional Cornish pasty at the Plymouth Pasty House, a local favorite.

Day 2

History and Culture

Discover the rich naval history of Plymouth by visiting the Mayflower Museum and Plymouth Gin Distillery.
Head to the Barbican Theatre, a small but vibrant venue housed in a former monastery.
Learn about the life of Sir Francis Drake at the Drake's Island Nature Reserve.
Take a stroll through the Royal Citadel, a 17th-century fortress with sweeping views of the city.
Finish off the day with a pint of ale at The Cider Press pub.

Day 3

Outdoor Adventures

Take a bus to Dartmoor National Park and hike to the summit of Haytor Rocks for a stunning panorama.
Visit the Buckland Abbey, a National Trust property that was once home to Sir Francis Drake.
Go rockpooling at Wembury Beach and observe the fascinating marine life.
Hire a bike and cycle along the South West Coast Path, a picturesque trail that runs along the coast.
Treat yourself to a seafood feast at The Boathouse Cafe, a delightful eatery overlooking the water.

Day 4

Relaxation and Farewell

Spend a leisurely morning at the Hoe, a central green space with unbeatable views of the Plymouth Sound.
Have a traditional English tea at Jacka Bakery, the oldest working bakery in Plymouth.
Take a dip in the Plymouth Pavilions, a community leisure center with a swimming pool and water slides.
Say farewell to Plymouth by enjoying a sunset cocktail at the 1620s Terrace, a rooftop bar overlooking the harbor.
Soak up the last of the city's charm before departing from your hotel, at the end of your unforgettable adventure.

Length of stay

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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