Category: Outdoors

Shake off the winter and step into spring with a walk in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City. From easy seafront strolls on Plymouth Hoe to bluebell woods in the Tamar Valley and beach wanders, there are plenty of walks to enjoy within easy reach of the city centre.

                            

Plymouth Hoe Trail: classic seafront stroll

The Plymouth Hoe Trail is one of the most iconic spring walks in Plymouth, combining history, heritage and big‑sky sea views. Starting in the historic Sutton Harbour, the 2.1‑mile route follows the waterfront, climbing gently up to Plymouth Hoe.

Along the way you can:

This is an ideal walk for visitors (or locals!)  as it starts close to the Barbican and links easily to other seafront routes. Along the way, make the most of the view and stop in one of the waterside cafes or resturants, we highly recommend the Caesar Salad from Pier One! 

                  

Tamar Valley: riverside and woodland walks near Plymouth

The Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies just north of Plymouth on the Devon–Cornwall border and comes alive in spring. Here you’ll find riverside paths, old mining landscapes and tranquil woodland where bluebells and wild garlic carpet the ground.

Popular spots for spring walks include:

  • Calstock and the River Tamar: Follow paths beneath the railway viaduct with views along the water.

  • Cotehele (National Trust): Explore gardens, orchards and riverside trails bursting into life in March and April.

  • Tamar Trails: Way‑marked circular routes through historic woodland, suitable for different ages and abilities.

The Tamar Valley is a great day trip from Plymouth by car or train, offering a peaceful contrast to the city and the coast. 

                    

Devonport Park: views, history and family‑friendly paths

Devonport Park, often called the “people’s park”, is the oldest formal public park in Plymouth and sits on one of the highest points in the city. Its network of paths makes it perfect for gentle spring strolls, with flowerbeds, memorial gardens and wide lawns.

Highlights include:

  • Elevated views over the River Tamar towards Cornwall and across the city skyline.

  • A central bandstand, cafe and play areas that make this an easy choice for families and local dog walks.

  • Historic monuments and memorials reflecting Devonport’s naval heritage.

If you’re staying in or near the Royal William Yard or the waterfront, Devonport Park is an excellent nearby green space for a peaceful break in nature.

                       

Burrator Reservoir: Dartmoor walks close to the city

Burrator Reservoir offers one of the most popular Dartmoor walks within easy reach of Plymouth. The mainly level path around the reservoir makes it accessible for many walkers, including families with children.

In spring you can:

  • Enjoy reflections of surrounding tors and woodland in the still water.

  • Listen for birdsong and look out for wildlife along the shore and in the trees.

  • Combine your walk with a wider Dartmoor drive, stopping at villages and viewpoints on the way back to Plymouth.

Burrator is an ideal introduction to Dartmoor National Park if you’re staying in Plymouth but want a taste of the moor’s wilder landscapes.

                 

Bovisand Beach: coastal path and sandy shores

Just a short drive from Plymouth, Bovisand Beach is a sheltered bay on the South West Coast Path with golden sand and dramatic cliffs. It’s a lovely spot for a spring beach walk, especially when the weather is bright but not yet busy with summer crowds.

From Bovisand you can:

  • Join the coast path for clifftop views across Plymouth Sound towards the city and Breakwater.

  • Wander along the sand at low tide and explore rock pools with children.

  • Pack a picnic and watch early‑season paddleboarders and yachts out on the water.

This is a great choice if you’re looking for dog walks near Plymouth in spring (check seasonal dog restrictions before you go). If you would like to go for a longer walk, why not take the SouthWest Copast path from here and follow it all the way around to Wembury Beach! It takes about three hours and there are some stunning views along the way. 

                   

Mount Edgcumbe: ferry ride, gardens and coastal scenery

Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park sits across the water from Plymouth in Cornwall and makes a brilliant spring day out. From the Barbican or Royal William Yard, you can take a short boat or the Cremyll Ferry for a scenic trip across Plymouth Sound.

Once you arrive, you’ll find:

  • Historic formal gardens and a renowned collection of camellias and other spring blooms.

  • Woodland and coastal paths with views back towards Plymouth’s skyline and the Sound.

  • Beaches, parkland, cafes and activities such as alpaca‑walking and bike hire.

Mount Edgcumbe is ideal if you want to combine a ferry ride, a gentle walk and a full day exploring Cornwall while still basing yourself in Plymouth.

                      

Mount Wise Park: hidden gem with big views

Mount Wise Park is one of Plymouth’s best kept secrets for views and short walks. Just west of the city centre, it offers green spaces, outdoor pools (open in summer) and spectacular panoramas over the water.

During a spring stroll here you can:

  • Walk up to the former signalling station, now a 360‑degree viewing platform with vistas from Devonport out to Dartmoor.

  • Look across Mayflower Marina, Royal William Yard and the busy harbour.

  • Visit the memorial to Antarctic explorer Sir Robert Falcon Scott, featuring the moving final words from his diary.

It’s a great addition to a day exploring Devonport and the western waterfront, or a peaceful evening walk as the light fades over the Sound.

                   

Practical tips for spring walking in Plymouth

  • Check local tide times and weather forecasts, especially for coastal and Dartmoor walks.

  • Wear layers; spring can be mild in the sun but chilly by the sea or on higher ground.

  • Use the Plymouth Trails App and local maps to plan routes suitable for your group’s fitness and accessibility needs.

  • If you’re travelling by train with GWR, look out for advance fares and off‑peak tickets for better value spring getaways.

                                                 

Planning a spring break in Plymouth in 2025?

If these spring walks have inspired you to visit Plymouth, now is the perfect time to plan your trip. Combine coastal walks with visits to the historic Barbican, independent shops, galleries and Plymouth’s excellent food scene.

  • Book accommodation early for popular spring weekends and bank holidays.

  • Look out for events, festivals and exhibitions happening across the city during March, April and May.

  • Explore more walking ideas, things to do and places to eat across Plymouth on our website.

For the latest inspiration, Plymouth-themed content and inspiration sign up to our newsletter.

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

2 Comments

Comments

  1. CurlySue
    You are right. We never remember Mount Wise. I’ve not been there since school swims over 50 years ago. How mad is that. It’s on my must now. So thanks!
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