Britain’s Ocean City, the waterfront destination of Plymouth promises the most sublime salt-kissed staycation. With something for every seeker of escapism, it is set between the stunning south coast of Devon and the wilds of Dartmoor National Park. From winding riverways, hidden coves and glistening marinas to green parks, historic estates and city streets, it offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes and unmissable experiences.
For the most unique things to do in Plymouth, uncover our curated guide for a dream oceanside retreat.
Bathe Under Open Skies at Tinside Lido
There’s nothing quite like a soul-stirring sea dip to awaken the senses and reconnect with nature. Open throughout the summer months, Plymouth’s Art Deco Tinsel Lido is one of the best places for sheltered sea swims and bathing under blue skies. A Grade II listed outdoor lido, this iconic saltwater swimming pool opened in 1935 and continues to offer a unique, family-friendly experience. Regularly topped up and refreshed by the tides, it promises refreshing swims for bathers, as well as sun-soaking opportunities with a sweeping sun deck. Catering to all abilities, the Tinsel Lido features both a shallow and a deep end and is decorated with a number of water features to create a calming harmony in symphony with the roll of waves beyond the breakwater.
Admire the Views from Smeaton Tower
Plymouth is renowned for its heavenly waterside location, overlooking the winding waterways of the River Tamar and the glittering face of the Channel. With breathtaking coastalscapes to admire, there’s no better place to absorb the views than the eighteenth-century Smeaton Tower. For a unique experience in Plymouth, cover the ninety-three steps of this Grade I listed tower and climb the ladder to its lantern room. From here, captivating vistas over Plymouth Sound and the city greet visitors. Capture snapshots of the views on film and take time to drink in the sights, looking out for famous Plymouth landmarks such as The Royal Citadel, Tinside Lido and The Waterfront.
Take a Tour of Plymouth Gin Distillery
For the lovers of craft spirits, the Plymouth Gin Distillery offers an exclusive introduction to its artisan gins created in-house since 1793. Housed in the oldest operating gin distillery in Britain, it is located on The Barbican and easily accessible for a unique experience in the city. For the best entrée, take part in a guided tour to discover the history of the distillery and learn some of the tantalising trade secrets poured into every artisan drop. With a selection of premium gins and signature cocktails to enjoy, you can sample your favourite beverages ready to savour from the comfort of a Boutique Retreat.
Explore the House and Gardens of Saltram Estate
Saltram House has been passed on through seven generations of the same family and today is looked after by the National Trust. Located just outside of Plymouth, this wonderful Georgian manor proposes an unmissably relaxing opportunity to wander through nature and time. Set within more than four hundred and fifty acres of estate, it is one of the best places to go for walks throughout the year. Explore the landscaped eighteenth-century, dog-friendly grounds and picturesque Orangery on fine days, or head over to the manor itself to uncover its period architecture and elegant interiors. From the impressive painting collection by renowned Swiss Painter Angelica Kauffman to the fascinating library filled with books from the eras (the oldest one dates from 1493), a world of discovery awaits within the myriad rooms and corridors.
Wander the Walkways of The Barbican
One of the best places to visit in Plymouth for a curated experience is The Barbican. Intertwined with maritime history, you can wander the streets and gaze at the mixture of eye-catching Tudor and Jacobean architecture and pretty, cobbled streets. For the lovers of history, you can explore the places where Sir Francis Drake once walked and where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for North America. Meanwhile, for seekers of fine cuisine, you can peruse the assortment of cafés, restaurants and bistros serving up seasonal menus and daily specials. Later, you can also treat yourself to evening entertainment courtesy of Plymouth Pavilions. From live bands to banquets to ballet, a broad array of events and attractions fill the schedule of this popular performance venue.
Enjoy a Luxury Spa Day at Boringdon Hall
Just beyond the fringes of Plymouth, the beautiful Boringdon Hall awaits. The perfect place for leisurely day trips, this five-star manor creates an idyllic space for reconnecting and unwinding. Set within an attractive estate, its irresistible offering features a luxurious Gaia spa and a Michelin Star restaurant, Àclèaf. Spend dreamy hours reclining poolside and making use of the award-winning wellness facilities, such as the hydrotherapy pool with countryside views, Finnish sauna, Crystal Salt steam room, Laconium herbal sauna and alfresco hot tubs. Later, to dine in style, settle in for a heavenly meal in the hall’s former minstrels’ gallery. With menus of finely crafted European cuisine, you can enjoy the finest flavours and professional service for lunch and dinner.
Savour a Picnic by Burrator Reservoir
Offering the best of city living and wild escapism, Burrator Reservoir resides just ten miles or so outside the centre of Plymouth. A truly tranquil place that tempts for hours of relaxation and quietude, it is decorated with a tapestry of calm water, mixed woodland and a blanket of open moor. Head here for a unique experience and bask in the wilderness setting, following pathways beside the water and through towering trees. Whether you’re looking forward to leisurely strolls to the tune of nature or lakeside picnics with hampers laden with local delights, Burrator sets an unrivalled scene. For more information about local history and the best walks in the area, venture to the reserve’s Discovery Centre.
Hire a Private Boat with Bare Boat Charter
If you are seeking a unique way to uncover Plymouth, what could be more exhilarating than chartering your own boat? Perfect for sailors and yachties already au fait with the water, exclusive hire of private vessels can be an awe-inspiring experience. Departing from Plymouth Marina at King Point and Queen Anne’s Battery, these private sailing boats and ribs can be hired from Bare Boat Charter for a few hours or a few days. Navigate the waters of Plymouth Sound, or venture further afield along the coastlines of Devon and Cornwall to continue your journey. From commanding views over golden-sand beaches and towering cliffs to magical sightings of wildlife under the waves, memories can be made in abundance atop the mesmeric ocean.
Watch a Show at Theatre Royal Plymouth
The largest regional theatre in the UK, Theatre Royal Plymouth is one of the best destinations for live entertainment and showstopping performances. Backed by an ever-updating programme of events, it ensures that everyone can look forward to a unique thing to do that perfectly accommodates all tastes. Select from the line-up of events by local and world-famous artists alike. Each week, a wide variety of comedy, dance, drama, opera, talks, workshops and more take to the stage and craft riveting ways to escape the ordinary for a while. Secure your tickets in advance and treat yourself to a pre-show beverage in the bar, before heading to one of the three stages for the show to begin. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or fifteenth, there’s always something new to grip and enthral.
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