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.
Great 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.
Annabels Cabaret and Discotheque
Located in the heart of Plymouth, Annabels is a long-standing nightlife venue known for its DJs, dancing and lively atmosphere. With regular events and student nights, it’s a popular choice for a late night out in the city.
The Depo
Based in the city centre, The Depo is a live music and events venue that hosts club nights, DJs and other events throughout the year. Keep an eye on its event listings for student-friendly nights and themed parties.
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.
Delicious 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.
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.
Armado Lounge
For a relaxed meal with plenty of choice, Armado Lounge is a great option. The menu has something for everyone, including burgers, sandwiches, salads and small plates, with plenty of options for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.
Smashland Burgers
If you're after a proper burger, Smashland Burgers is worth checking out. Known for its smashed burgers, loaded fries and indulgent sides, it is a great spot for a filling meal when you want something a little more substantial.
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.
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.
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!)
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.
For the latest inspiration, Plymouth-themed content and inspiration sign up to our newsletter.
In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner
Comments
Nobody has commented on this post yet, why not send us your thoughts and be the first?
