Plymouth: The Complete Guide

Plymouth, located on the scenic south coast of Devon, is a city that effortlessly blends maritime heritage with a dynamic waterfront lifestyle. One of its great strengths is the setting: visitors can enjoy long walks along the Hoe with panoramic views over Plymouth Sound, or explore the historic Barbican where cobbled streets lead to quirky shops, galleries, and harbourfront eateries. The natural beauty surrounding the city – cliffs, beaches, and green parks – make it a pleasant base for relaxed exploration.

The city is also a hub for culture and entertainment in the region. The Theatre Royal Plymouth offers a broad programme of performances, from major touring musicals to local productions. Just a short distance away, The Box – a modern museum and arts venue – showcases exhibitions that reflect Plymouth’s role in global history and its creative present. Whether you’re interested in art, theatre, or architecture, there’s enough variety to fill a cultural weekend.

For families and casual visitors alike, Plymouth has plenty of accessible attractions and activities. The National Marine Aquarium is a major draw, particularly for younger audiences, while the water taxis and harbour cruises offer a scenic way to get around. Food is a strong point too, with the city’s restaurants making the most of the fresh seafood landed locally. In all, Plymouth offers a diverse mix of coast, culture, and cuisine in one compact and lively package.

History of Plymouth

Plymouth in the Prehistoric and Roman Periods

Archaeological evidence suggests that the area now known as Plymouth has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, with settlements found on the surrounding hills. During the Roman era, there is little indication of a major town, but the region was influenced by Roman trade and activity. Coastal access and nearby settlements likely facilitated minor maritime trade and interaction with the wider empire.

Plymouth in the Medieval Period

By the 11th century, a small fishing village called Sutton developed in the area, which would later become Plymouth. It began to grow in importance thanks to its natural harbour, known today as Sutton Harbour. By the 13th century, Plymouth was granted a market and began to flourish as a port. Its strategic position meant it was used by English monarchs for launching military campaigns, including those to France during the Hundred Years’ War.

Plymouth in the Age of Exploration

The 16th century saw Plymouth emerge as a key naval base and hub of maritime exploration. Sir Francis Drake famously set sail from Plymouth to circumnavigate the globe in 1577, and the city became closely associated with England’s growing naval ambitions. In 1620, the Mayflower departed from Plymouth carrying the Pilgrims to the New World, an event that has since become central to the city’s international identity.

Plymouth during the English Civil War

During the mid-17th century, Plymouth was a Parliamentarian stronghold. It withstood a lengthy Royalist siege between 1642 and 1646, which caused great hardship but reinforced its status as a resilient and well-defended city. The naval dockyards continued to expand in importance during and after this period, laying the groundwork for future military significance.

Plymouth in the Industrial and Naval Age

The 18th and 19th centuries saw massive expansion. The establishment and growth of the Royal Dockyard at Devonport transformed the city into a powerhouse of shipbuilding and naval logistics. Plymouth, Stonehouse, and Devonport eventually merged, and the area became one of the most strategically important military ports in Britain. The townscape expanded rapidly, accommodating dock workers, naval personnel, and associated industries.

Plymouth during the 20th Century

Plymouth suffered extensive bombing during World War II due to its naval base and military industry. The Blitz destroyed large parts of the city centre, leading to major post-war redevelopment. A radical plan by architect Patrick Abercrombie reshaped the urban core with wide boulevards and modern buildings. The post-war years also saw the city continue to function as a key naval port while diversifying its economy and expanding its university and cultural institutions.

Plymouth in the 21st Century

Today, Plymouth blends its maritime legacy with a growing cultural and academic scene. Regeneration of the waterfront and historic areas, including the Barbican and Royal William Yard, has brought renewed energy. The city remains proud of its naval connections while embracing tourism, the creative industries, and marine research as it moves forward in the modern era.

Visiting Plymouth for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Plymouth on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Plymouth Hoe

Plymouth Hoe is the city’s most iconic open space, offering sweeping views across Plymouth Sound. This clifftop promenade is steeped in maritime heritage and features the towering red-and-white Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse, which visitors can climb for panoramic views. The Royal Citadel and Naval Memorial also stand nearby, marking centuries of naval defence.

The Hoe is ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and watching ships pass through the sound. During summer, it hosts public events including outdoor concerts and the British Firework Championships. Access is free year-round, and it’s within easy walking distance from the city centre.

2. Royal William Yard, Plymouth

Royal William Yard is a beautifully restored 19th-century naval victualling yard turned vibrant waterfront destination. With its imposing limestone architecture, it houses a range of restaurants, bars, galleries, and boutique shops. Visitors can enjoy a meal overlooking the marina, take part in seasonal markets, or explore the art trails and installations dotted around the site.

The area is also a good starting point for walks along the South West Coast Path. Water taxis connect it to the Barbican in warmer months. Entry is free, and many venues stay open late into the evening, making it a lively place at all hours.

3. The Box, Plymouth

The Box is Plymouth’s flagship cultural attraction, combining museum, art gallery, and archive under one roof. Opened in 2020, it features interactive displays on the city’s maritime history, natural sciences, and fine art. Highlights include a flotilla of hanging Royal Navy figureheads and a mammoth skeleton.

Located on Tavistock Place, The Box is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. Admission is free, though some temporary exhibitions may charge a fee. It’s ideal for families and culture seekers alike, offering both educational content and creative inspiration.

4. National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth

The National Marine Aquarium is the largest in the UK and one of Plymouth’s top attractions, especially for families. It houses a vast array of marine life, from local species of the Plymouth Sound to sharks, rays, and coral reef inhabitants from the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific.

Located on the Barbican waterfront, it’s open daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (last entry 16:00). Entry costs approximately £22.50 for adults, £17.50 for children aged 3–15, and under-3s go free. Tickets are valid for a full year, allowing repeat visits. The aquarium also runs conservation programmes and special events throughout the year.

5. Barbican & Sutton Harbour, Plymouth

The Barbican is Plymouth’s historic heart, a maze of cobbled streets, independent shops, and historic pubs clustered around Sutton Harbour. The area is home to the Elizabethan House, Mayflower Steps, and the Plymouth Gin Distillery. It’s also the setting-off point for boat trips around the harbour and beyond.

Ideal for a relaxed day of wandering, the Barbican offers local charm with plenty of cafes and waterfront restaurants. The mix of maritime history and lively atmosphere makes it a must-see. No admission fee is needed to explore the area itself, although individual attractions like the distillery tour may charge entry.

6. Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park

Just across the Tamar River, Mount Edgcumbe combines Tudor history with landscaped gardens and wide-reaching views over Plymouth Sound. The ferry from the Barbican to Cremyll takes only 10 minutes, offering a scenic start to the visit. The estate includes formal gardens, woodland trails, and coastal paths.

The country park is open year-round and free to enter, though entry to the historic house costs around £10 for adults and £5 for children. It’s open seasonally, typically from Easter to late September. A café and artisan shops also occupy the old stables courtyard, making it easy to linger.

7. Saltram House and Estate

Owned by the National Trust, Saltram House is a stately Georgian mansion set in extensive parkland on the eastern edge of Plymouth. The house is filled with fine art and period furnishings, while the grounds offer river views, woodlands, and trails for walkers and cyclists.

Open Wednesday to Sunday (house from 11:00 to 16:00; gardens and estate from dawn to dusk), adult admission is about £14, with discounts for children and National Trust members. It’s a peaceful retreat just a short drive from the city centre and is especially striking in spring and autumn.

8. Elizabethan House, Plymouth

This recently restored 16th-century townhouse offers a unique glimpse into life in Elizabethan and Jacobean Plymouth. Tucked away on New Street in the Barbican, it features immersive displays and multimedia storytelling that brings the home’s residents to life over four centuries of history.

Open seasonally, usually from April to October, the house welcomes visitors Wednesday to Sunday. Tickets cost around £6.50 for adults, £3.50 for children, and are free for under-5s. Due to its compact size and historic nature, pre-booking is recommended, especially during weekends and school holidays.

9. Devonport Naval Heritage Centre

The Devonport Naval Heritage Centre chronicles the long naval history of Plymouth’s dockyard and its importance to the Royal Navy. It features collections of ship models, uniforms, weapons, and archival materials detailing operations from the 1700s to the present.

Open on selected days (usually Wednesdays and first Saturday of the month), visits are typically guided and should be booked in advance. Entry is free, though donations are welcome. It offers a fascinating insight into naval life and the strategic significance of Devonport.

10. Drake’s Island (seasonal access)

Drake’s Island lies in Plymouth Sound and can be visited via guided boat tours during summer months. Once a military outpost and later an adventure training centre, the island is now privately owned and opened for heritage tours and events.

Boat tours generally depart from the Barbican and last around 2.5 hours, including a guided walk on the island. Tickets cost approximately £35 per adult. The views back toward the Hoe and Plymouth Sound are outstanding, and the stories of shipwrecks, tunnels, and explorers make this a memorable off-shore experience.