to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
Living in Plymouth as a student means finding the best places to eat, drink, and have fun without breaking the bank. Luckily, this vibrant city has plenty of budget-friendly options to keep both your stomach and wallet happy. Here’s a guide to some of the best local spots and activities to make the most of student life.
Best places to grab a drink:
Wetherspoons (The Union Rooms and Gog & Magog)
Wetherspoons pubs are a classic choice for students looking for great value. The Union Rooms, right in the heart of Plymouth, offers a lively atmosphere and a decent selection of drinks, including beers, cocktails, and wines – all at prices that won’t hurt your budget. They also serve food if you’re after something to eat with your drink.
Bar Rakuda
For something a bit lively, Bar Rakuda is a waterside bar on The Barbican that offers live music every weekend. They run offers throughout the week such as pizza and a pint, light bite deals, and 2 for £14 cocktails. It’s the perfect place to get a night out started.
The Ship
Also located on the Barbican, The Ship is a comfortable pub that’s popular for its friendly environment and decent priced drinks. They serve pub classics like burgers and nachos, so you can grab a bite if you’re hungry while enjoying some live performances. The outdoor seating is a bonus on sunny days.
Kitty O'Halons
Known as the first Irish pub in Plymouth, Kitty O'Halon's is always guaranteed to be a good time. They offer live music and reasonably priced drinks, everything you need for a decent night out.
Bonne Santé
Located on the scenic waterfront, Bonne Santé is a vibrant bar and restaurant offering delicious food, expertly crafted cocktails, and a stylish atmosphere. Enjoy all-day drink deals and a 2-for-£12.50 offer during selected hours — the perfect spot to unwind, indulge, and take in the views.
Caffeine Club
Located in the heart of Plymouth, Caffeine Club is a popular 24-hour café and bar that’s ideal for students. With affordable prices, hearty comfort food, and a relaxed, quirky atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink. There is everything from coffee to cocktails, freakshakes and more.
Best places to eat:
The Market
Plymouth Market offers an unbeatable variety of food stalls, perfect for students who want tasty meals without the hefty restaurant prices. From fresh deli options at The Market Deli to international flavours, you can eat well for under £10.
B-Bar
Found inside the Barbican Theatre, B-Bar serves Asian and Thai cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s great for students looking for something a bit different but still wallet friendly. The menu is varied, offering vegan and vegetarian options, and the prices generally sit between £10–20. Plus, they host live comedy and music nights, which are a fantastic alternative to a night out.
Barbican Pasta Bar
If you love Italian food, this simply styled pasta bar is hard to beat. Their dishes are freshly made, filling, and reasonably priced. The Barbican Pasta Bar has a warm, welcoming vibe and is perfect for a pit stop after a walk around the waterfront.
Cap’n Jaspers
You have not truly experienced Plymouth until you have been to Cap’n Jaspers. Situated at the end of The Barbican, this is a true Plymothian staple place to eat. It offers food like burgers, hot dogs, and much more for a very reasonable price.
Affordable indoor activities:
Pottery Painting
Unleash your creativity by trying pottery painting, a relaxing and affordable way to take a break from studies and craft your own unique pieces. ClayArt along the Barbican offers sessions.
The Box
Plymouth’s award-winning museum, gallery, and archive space has free entry and fascinating exhibitions about the city’s rich history, from maritime tales to ancient artefacts. The Box also hosts live performances, workshops, and has a café - perfect for spending an inspiring day indoors without spending a fortune.
Plymouth Arts Cinema
Enjoy thought-provoking independent and foreign films at prices students can afford at Plymouth Arts Cinema. Find the September programme here.
Yoga at Market Hall
Market Hall hosts budget-friendly yoga sessions that are welcoming to all experience levels, a great way to stay active and relieve stress during busy term times.
Mount Edgcumbe Country Park
Just a short ferry ride away, this beautiful green space offers hiking trails, gardens, and picnic spots at no cost. Mount Edgcumbe is a peaceful retreat for fresh air and relaxation. For animal lovers, the Alpaca Experience is a ticketed but worthwhile option.
Affordable outside activities:
Explore Plymouth on foot
Plymouth is the perfect place to walk around. You can walk around the coast, woodland, country estates, and much more. If you are looking to learn more about your new city, try out Plymouth Trails App. It’s free to download and helps you to explore Plymouth whilst learning all about its history. There's also a variety of other trails ot try such as Rail 200 and the Royal William Yard History Trail.
Legs not stretched enough? Find more walks to do.
Sea Swimming
For the adventurous, the city’s natural swimming spots provide invigorating exercise with stunning views, especially during warmer months. There are plenty of places to swim from including The Hoe, Firestone Bay, and Mount Batten Beach (You can get a gorgeous sunset from here!)
Discover Alma Yard and Ocean Studios
Immerse yourself in Plymouth’s creative scene by visiting Alma Yard and Ocean Studios. Both host art installations, workshops, and community events, many free or very affordable — ideal for soaking up local culture.
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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner
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