Plymouth on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Explore Plymouth's riches without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

With a limited budget, traveling to Plymouth, United Kingdom is still possible. The city offers free museums and landmarks such as Plymouth Hoe and the historic Barbican. Additionally, cheap accommodations and affordable street food are available.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Waterfront

Check in to the Hotel Ibis Plymouth on Longbridge Road
Take a stroll along the Barbican waterfront, admiring the colorful boats
Visit the National Marine Aquarium for a glimpse of undersea life
Stop for lunch at the Cap'n Jaspers seafood stall for fresh fish and chips
Take a boat tour of Plymouth Sound to see the city from a new perspective
Enjoy dinner at the Quay 33 restaurant, with seafood dishes and stunning views of the harbor

Day 2

Discovering Plymouth's History

Visit Plymouthhoe, an ancient hill fortress overlooking the city
Step back in time at the Elizabethan House, a historic restored townhouse
Explore the Royal Citadel, a 17th-century fortress with breathtaking views
Take a guided tour of Plymouth Gin Distillery, home of the famous 'Plymouth Gin'
Have dinner at The Dock, a modern restaurant with harbor views and delicious food

Day 3

A Day on the Beach

Spend the morning on Plymouth's beaches: the Shaws Cove Beach and Jennycliff Bay are great choices
Have lunch at The Canteen, a beachside café offering fresh sandwiches
Take a coastal walk on the South West Coast Path, with stunning views
Visit Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park, a 16th-century house with beautiful gardens
Enjoy dinner at the River Cottage Canteen, with fresh local produce and a cozy atmosphere

Day 4

Exploring Dartmoor National Park

Take a day trip to Dartmoor National Park, with its gorgeous landscapes and wildlife
Visit the Miniature Pony Centre, a family-friendly attraction with ponies to interact with
Stop at the Dartmoor Brewery for a taste of their locally brewed beer
Hike to the stunning Haytor Rocks, a granite ridge that is the most popular landmark of the park
Enjoy dinner at The Burrator Inn, a quaint, 19th-century pub with local food and drink

Day 5

Cultural Plymouth

Visit The Box, Plymouth's new museum and art gallery
Take a tour of the historic Plymouth Hoe area
Visit the Mayflower Museum, dedicated to the Pilgrims' journey to America
Have lunch at Rockets and Rascals, a cycling café and social hub
Attend a performance at the Theatre Royal, a historic theater showcasing local talent
Plymouth is not your average city and your itinerary should take full advantage of what it has to offer. With affordable budget hotels, a variety of restaurants, unique attractions and beautiful beaches, your 5-day stay will be unforgettable. Don't forget to grab a pint of the local brew before you leave!

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

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