Top 10 things to do at Seafest Plymouth

Get ready for a wave of excitement as Seafest makes a splash across Plymouth’s waterfront! This year see’s the return of the Cookery Theatre on The Parade, with local chefs showcasing their skills, by creating delicious dishes using locally sourced products.

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and Plymouth Sound National Marine Park are inviting everyone to join in this celebration by the sea with an action-packed weekend of delectable food and sea-themed fun, spreading right across the waterfront.

To help you explore, check out our sustainable travel options - FREE Shark and Ride shuttle bus and subsidised ferry trips between The Barbican - Royal William Yard - Mount Edgcumbe, sponsored by Plymouth Boat Trips; and from Mount Batten to The Barbican via the Mount Batten ferry.

Here’s our top 10 things to do at this year's Seafest Plymouth!

Discover delicious dishes and family fun

The Barbican and Sutton Harbour is the festival’s foodie hotspot, with local chefs creating inspiring dishes from the Cookery Theatre on The Parade. You can stroll through the array of trader stalls selling delicious food, gifts and sea-themed crafts.

For hands-on fun, activities and marine conservation, head to Quay Square, where families can join in scallop shell painting, ocean explorer trails and much more.

Enjoy live music by the sea

Soak up the festival atmosphere with live music throughout the weekend on West Pier. Kick back and enjoy the sounds with some award-winning refreshments from the festival bar, at Venton’s Devon Cyder.

Get out on the water

Explore Plymouth Sound National Marine Park with a selection of boat trips from the Ocean Conservation Trust, Plymouth Boat Trips and on the Bounty, a replica vessel from Channel 4’s “Mutiny”.

Make a splash

Cool off at Tinside Lido, with their 90p swims all weekend, and bring your four legged friend to the end of season doggy swim on Sunday afternoon. Why not try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding at Royal William Yard? Or head to Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre to experience discounted taster sessions in kayaking, sailing, or SUP!

Watch cinema by the sea

Experience outdoor cinema at Tinside Lido, with Seafest presents: The Tinside Motion Picture show, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Films include, Finding Nemo, Free Willy, The Life Aquatic of Steve Zissou, The Grand Budapest Hotel and The Salt Path.

Marvel at marine magic

Head to The Green at Royal William Yard, and crawl into the belly of an enormous inflatable Sperm Whale to discover a marvellous marine tale!

Dive into sea-themed fun at the Royal William Yard

Visit Royal William Yard for Seafest with a historic twist. Explore the new History Trail and 200 Exhibition (13-28 September). Enjoy free family activities, music, entertainment, tours and SUP sessions.

Explore Mount Batten

Delve into the fascinating history of the artillery fort that once stood guard over Plymouth Sound, Mount Batten Tower, open on Saturday 13 September, 10am to 3pm.

Also at Mount Batten, you can watch the thrilling J24 racing series, as it finishes on 14 September, at Plymouth Yacht Haven, or get a better view on the Island Trust Boat trips.

Climb on board

The iconic tall ship, Pelican of London is having an Open Deck event at Trinity Pier, Millbay Docks. Visitors can go on-board FREE during Seafest weekend to explore ship, meet the crew and find out about the opportunities for young people.

Head to Mount Edgcumbe and explore medieval life with the “Age of Chivalry” living history encampment. Experience displays of period clothing, archery, calligraphy, games and authentic tents, plus thrilling cannon demonstrations and knightly combat.

You can also enjoy FREE bookable tours at Mount Edgcumbe House and grounds, plus an evening bat walk. 

Find out more

There's plenty more activities going on during Seafest, some may require booking in advance. Please visit the website for all the details, including access information and travel: Seafest Plymouth - Visit Plymouth

Seafest Plymouth is brought to you by the businesses from the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership.

The Plymouth Sound National Marine Park is made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of their Heritage Horizon Awards, using money raised by National Lottery players.