Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Plymouth combines one of the world's great natural harbours with 500 years of maritime history, a thriving food scene, and instant access to both the South West Coast Path and Dartmoor. It's also noticeably better value than many South West hotspots.

The Mayflower's departure in 1620, Sir Francis Drake (and his game of bowls on the Hoe), the Royal Navy's Devonport dockyard, Plymouth Gin, and Plymouth Sound - Britain's first National Marine Park.

May to September offers the best weather, outdoor swimming at Tinside Lido and the summer events season, including the British Firework Championships in August. Spring and autumn are quieter with lower accommodation prices. The waterfront is atmospheric year-round.

One full day covers the headline sights (Hoe, Barbican, aquarium or distillery). A weekend lets you add Royal William Yard, Mount Edgcumbe and a boat trip. Plymouth also makes a great base for exploring Dartmoor, the South Hams and south east Cornwall.

Plenty: walk the Hoe and see Smeaton's Tower from outside, explore the Barbican and Mayflower Steps, visit The Box museum, wander Royal William Yard, walk sections of the South West Coast Path, and visit Mount Edgcumbe's parkland (ferry fare applies).

Devon - but only just. The River Tamar forms the border with Cornwall on the city's western edge, crossed by the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry.

Yes - Plymouth beaches range from the Hoe foreshore and Firestone Bay in the city to Bovisand and Wembury a short drive east, plus Cawsand and Kingsand across the water by ferry.

Use city centre multi-storeys for shopping and theatre, Barbican/Hoe car parks for the waterfront (busy in summer - arrive early), or Park & Ride from Milehouse, Coypool or The George for the cheapest day out. See our Getting Here guide.

Very. The city centre, Hoe and Barbican form a compact triangle, all within a 15-minute walk of each other. Royal William Yard is about 30 minutes on foot from the Barbican, or a short bus, taxi, or seasonal water taxi ride.

Plymouth is very dog-friendly - the Hoe, coast path, Mount Edgcumbe and many pubs and cafes welcome dogs. Some beaches have seasonal restrictions in summer; check local signage.

Right here - this site and the Discover Plymouth app act as your tourist information hub: things to do, getting here and parking, what's on and itineraries, kept up to date by locals.

A free mobile app for exploring Plymouth - attractions, events, maps, itineraries and exclusive local deals, built by people who live here. Free on Google Play now - iPhone version coming soon.

Android: download free from Google Play via our app page. iPhone: coming soon - join the newsletter to be notified at launch.