Welcome to Plymouth

Situated in one of the most beautiful locations imaginable, Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, is sandwiched between the incredible South West coastline and the wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park. Plymouth is the only city within Tamar Valley, home to around 260,000 people and over five million visitors per year.

Heritage and Culture

Rich in heritage and culture, there’s lots to delve into in Plymouth. There’s hundreds of years of history to uncover, from Sir Francis Drake and the Spanish Armada to a city rebuilt following the Blitz during World War II. Visit the Mayflower Steps on the Barbican, the monument marking the departure of the Mayflower Pilgrims over 400 years ago, and head across to the Mayflower Museum to learn more about their famous journey across the Atlantic. A few streets across, you will find the oldest working gin distillery in England, Plymouth Gin Distillery, where you can take a guided tour or relax in the cocktail lounge where the Pilgrims are said to have spent their last night before setting sail. On Plymouth Hoe, you’ll find the iconic Smeaton’s Tower (formerly the Eddystone Lighthouse before it was moved onshore stone by stone in 1877), and Tinside Lido on the waterfront, a unique 1935 Art Deco open air seawater swimming pool.

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Things to do

Plymouth is a vibrant city packed full of attractions and activities, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Visit the UK’s largest aquarium at the National Marine Aquarium, or see a fantastic production at Theatre Royal Plymouth, the largest and best attended regional producing theatre in the UK. There’s Plymouth’s new world-class museum, art gallery and cultural centre, The Box to explore, as well as an awe-inspiring immersive dome experience at Market Hall. You’re never short of something to do in Plymouth.

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Plymouth Sound National Marine Park

With the wide expanse of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park on the doorstep there’s plenty of opportunities to dive in, enjoy the water and learn more about the wildlife that lives beneath the waves. Whether you’re into sailing, wild swimming, paddleboarding or marine conservation, there’s plenty to dip your toe into during your visit.

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Food & Drink

With the freshest seafood, great views, delightfully cosy cafes and plenty of pubs, there’s plenty of dining delights just waiting to be discovered along the waterfront.

You can also find a whole host of cuisines on offer in the city centre, with a melting pot of cultures meeting, so whether you’re stopping for a bite to eat during a busy day shopping or want a special evening out, there’s something on the menu you’ll enjoy!

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Events

Come for the South West’s largest food festival, watch unforgettable fireworks or listen to incredible live music. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find an event to suit every taste and age group.

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Shopping

There’s a fantastic shopping offering in Plymouth, from top brand names in the city centre to a treasure trove of independent shops on the waterfront, there’s plenty of places to pick for some retail therapy. Drake Circus offers the ultimate shopping and leisure experience, with a great range of high street stores as well as places to eat, drink and relax in Drake Circus The Barcode.

Rain or shine, Britain’s Ocean City is home to breath-taking views, plenty to see and do and lots of fresh, sea air.

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