Make a day of it in Plymouth this summer

Sunshine sparkling on the water, cobbled streets rich with history, and a city buzzing with summer excitement—Plymouth is your invitation to make memories that last while the sun is shining. If you have a single day to spare in Britain’s Ocean City, you’ll be amazed at what you can experience. 

Shaped by its spectacular surroundings, Plymouth is the ideal place to explore on a sunny summer day. Nestled between the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park and the renowned Plymouth Sound National Marine Park—the UK’s first national marine park—Plymouth offers a unique mix of green spaces and striking coastal scenery. 

Just a short journey from the city centre, Dartmoor’s wild moorlands and ancient woodlands invite hiking and wildlife spotting while the waters of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park provide opportunities for water sports, beach walks, and maritime discovery. 

Convenient ferry rides take you to Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, where formal gardens, woodland trails, and historic houses await. Over a third of the city is dedicated to parks, gardens, and tranquil green spaces, perfect for relaxation or family fun. The celebrated South West Coast Path passes right through Plymouth, delivering breathtaking views and the chance to explore both the urban waterfront and scenic harbours. 

The city offers a vibrant and diverse retail experience, making it a shopper’s paradise in the South West. At its heart is Drake Circus, the region’s largest shopping centre, where you’ll find big-name brands and high street favourites conveniently located under one roof.  

The revitalised city centre is alive with a wide range of shops and frequently hosts lively musical events, creating a dynamic shopping atmosphere. 

After a shopping spree, discover The Barcode, an entertainment hub featuring popular restaurants, an IMAX cinema, and a mix of exciting attractions—perfect for extending your day out. Shopping in Plymouth goes well beyond the main centres: Plymouth Market is home to a bustling community of local traders, selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food at pop-up stalls. 

Wander the historic, cobbled streets of The Barbican, where unique local traders offer quintessentially Plymothian products—look out for glass art, original paintings, clothing, and more in independent boutiques scattered near the waterfront. For those seeking artisan finds, Royal William Yard is a standout destination, hosting energetic monthly Good Food and Craft markets. Adding to this, The Arcade, a brand-new shopping mall opening at the Yard on 3 August, will provide a fresh space for more local traders, further enriching Plymouth’s ever-growing retail scene. 

Britain’s Ocean City also showcases an impressive range of attractions to suit every interest, whatever the weather may bring this summer. On bright days, start your adventure with a climb up Smeaton’s Tower—this historic lighthouse stands proudly atop Plymouth Hoe and delivers breathtaking panoramic views across both the city and coastline.  

Just a short stroll away in the Barbican, the National Marine Aquarium invites you to discover a fascinating underwater world, home to more than 4,000 marine creatures and the UK’s largest aquarium displays.  

When the weather is warm, take a dip at the beautifully restored art deco Tinside Lido on Plymouth Hoe, where you can enjoy an outdoor saltwater swim with stunning views over Plymouth Sound National Marine Park. 

Furthermore the city’s scene is thriving, offering an exciting mix of museums, theatre, art, film, and music for every taste.  

At the heart of it all is The Box, the city’s award-winning museum and gallery, where cutting-edge exhibitions—ranging from Caribbean migration to Surrealism—and major shows by international artists make it a must-visit destination. Complementing this are Plymouth’s vibrant theatre venues: the Theatre Royal, home to blockbuster productions, the Barbican Theatre, which champions local talent; and the Quad Theatre at Plymouth Marjon University, ensuring there’s live performances to be enjoyed year-round. 

Art lovers are spoiled for choice with bold contemporary galleries such as MIRROR, KARST, and Ocean Studios, alongside the creative hub of Alma Yard. For film buffs, Plymouth offers indie screenings at Arts Cinema, deluxe experiences at Everyman, and blockbuster excitement at Cineworld’s modern multiplex. Summer brings the city’s music scene alive, with free outdoor concerts at Royal William Yard, live pop-up gigs in the city centre, and regular performances at Drake Circus and The Barcode. 

Discover Plymouth’s rich heritage along its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and stunning waterfront. Royal William Yard celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, marking two centuries as a cornerstone of Plymouth’s naval heritage.  

Once Europe’s largest victualling yard, this remarkable collection of Grade I-listed buildings has been transformed into a lively cultural and social hub—a destination for independent dining, unique shopping, vibrant events, and creative exhibitions. Special bicentenary activities, including the 200 Stories campaign and History Trail, shine a light on community connections and hidden stories that have shaped this iconic waterfront over time. 

Plymouth’s rich history radiates well beyond the Yard. Marking 200 years of railway heritage in 2025, the city highlights its role in connecting Britain through new interactive trails. Along the waterfront, the Barbican’s Mayflower Steps and Mayflower Museum bring the Pilgrims’ legacy to life, while landmarks like Plymouth Hoe and Smeaton’s Tower anchor centuries of seafaring adventure.  

No matter how you choose to spend your day, Plymouth guarantees a memorable experience in this stunning maritime city by the sea.  

For further themed Plymouth inspiration, exclusive offers and things to do in the city, sign up to our free Visit Plymouth e-newsletter.

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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner