Plymouth Hotels

The Plymouth Barbican

One of the most historically significant and trendiest waterfront districts in Britain, the Plymouth Barbican is home to many of the city's most beloved attractions and an extensive selection of sophisticated restaurants and cafés. Visit the largest aquarium in the country, the National Marine Aquarium, which exhibits thousands of animals originating from the British shores, the Atlantic and the Great Barrier Reef. Head to the Mayflower Steps, where, in 1620, pilgrims fled England for the New World, or visit the renowned Barbican Theatre for some world-class shows.

Notable historic landmarks – some of Plymouth's Grade I Listed buildings

Plymouth Minster has been a place of worship for approximately 1, 200 years, although the present church largely dates back to the 15th century. Saltram House, meanwhile, is one of Devon's finest Georgian landmarks and exhibits the magnificent paintings of the eminent local artist Sir Joshua Reynolds, who was born in nearby Plympton.

Another notable 18th-century landmark is Smeaton's Tower, a remarkable Eddystone Lighthouse that was designed by the distinguished civil engineer John Smeaton, who has been dubbed the 'father of civil engineering'. If you're interested in Plymouth's industrial and military heritage, head to the Royal William Victualling Yard, which was an important base for the Royal Navy for well over 150 years until the 1990s, and is now home to many thriving restaurants and cafés.

Theatre Royal

Britain's largest regional theatre, the Theatre Royal was built in the the Regency era in a beautiful Neoclassical style, although, following a decline in the popularity of theatre, the building was demolished in the 1930s. However, it was rebuilt and converted into a cinema shortly afterwards, although it was converted back to a theatre in later decades, before being rebuilt again and reopening in 1982. Following a multi-million pound refurbishment, the venue reopened again in 2013 and, to celebrate its new state-of-the-art facilities, showcased the award-winning show 'War Horse'.

Hotel suggestions

The Boringdon Hall Hotel is the place to stay if you're looking for picturesque, romantic grounds and comfortable, chic accommodation, while the Smithaleigh Hotel is perfect for people looking for a stylish yet budget-friendly venue. Other highly regarded Plymouth hotels include The Grosvenor Plymouth and the Langdon Court Hotel.

Where to dine in Plymouth

Many people come to Plymouth to dine at its fantastic seafood restaurants such as the Greek-inspired Village Restaurant and the international-themed Sprouts restaurant, although others can enjoy some delightful British classics at restaurants like Jolly Jacks or PL1 Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie. For some divine Italian dishes, head to Il Capriccio, or enjoy some wonderful Japanese flavours at Goto Japanese Restaurant.

Go shopping in Plymouth

Shopping in Plymouth offers rich and multifaceted experiences that cater to all preferences and budgets. A diverse array of stores and outlets nestles within the city, ranging from independent boutiques to high street favourites, creating a blend of global and local retail excitement.

Drake Circus, located in the heart of Plymouth, is home to numerous popular and well-established fashion retailers. This shopping centre features a vast spectrum of stores and boutiques geared towards fashion-conscious visitors. Filled with a plethora of the latest trends and pieces, from classic to contemporary, it offers an array of sartorial options for every taste. It is here that both domestic and international brands coexist, promising high-quality materials and designs.

For those who have a penchant for affordable shopping options, Plymouth Market is the perfect spot. Situated in Market Avenue, this traditional marketplace is a melting pot of stalls selling clothes, books, homewares, antiques, and an array of other goods. Established in the 1950s, it has been providing unrivalled value for money for many decades.

Plymouth is also home to New George Street, a widely-covered shopping promenade that houses numerous chain stores, retail shops, and cafes. With an assortment of shops that offer reasonably priced items, it stands as an excellent solution for budget-minded shopping.

In terms of local souvenirs, Plymouth has a distinct offering. A number of unique businesses craft beautiful pieces that encapsulate the essence of this vibrant city. The iconic Plymouth Gin, produced in the city since the late 18th century, is a gift that carries a taste of local history. Other popular souvenirs include artisan creations, such as jams or traditional pasties, each one a culinary representation of Plymouth's rich culture.