United Kingdom Outdoor Travel

Vacation rentals in Plymouth

Discover Plymouth in South-West England—explore sandy beaches, splash in safe coves, picnic in lush parks, and enjoy family adventures by the sparkling sea.

Plymouth Vacation Rentals

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Tips on renting in Plymouth

Getting Around

Nestled on the stunning South-West coast of the United Kingdom, Plymouth invites your family to savor sweeping sea views and vibrant harborside strolls. Arrive easily by train from London or Exeter, with Plymouth’s main station just a short walk from the city center. The nearest airport is Exeter International, about an hour away by car or train—perfect for families renting a car for flexibility. Day trips to Dartmoor National Park or the golden beaches of Cornwall are a breeze by local train tours, while the historic Royal William Yard, Plymouth Hoe, and the National Marine Aquarium offer endless fun for kids. With easy access to Bristol and the rest of Devon, Plymouth is a gateway to unforgettable South-West adventures.

What to Pack

Pack your bags for an unforgettable family escape to Plymouth, United Kingdom, where every day brings new adventures by the sea. Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the Barbican’s cobbled lanes and a camera to capture your kids’ smiles at the National Marine Aquarium, home to mesmerizing sharks and rays. Light layers are perfect for breezy afternoons at Plymouth Hoe, while swimsuits and sun hats are essential for sunny beach days at Tinside Lido. Don’t forget a picnic blanket for relaxing at Royal William Yard or snacks for ferry rides across sparkling Plymouth Sound.

Must-Try Activities

Explore Plymouth, United Kingdom, where your family can stroll along the historic Barbican waterfront, sample fresh seafood, and watch colorful boats in the marina. Kids love the National Marine Aquarium, filled with sharks and rays, while parents can relax at Plymouth Hoe, a green space with sweeping sea views. Discover the Royal William Yard’s restaurants and picnic spots, or take a ferry ride across sparkling Plymouth Sound. From sunny beach days at Tinside Lido to hands-on museums, Plymouth offers memorable adventures for all ages.

Smart Spending Tips

Explore Plymouth in the South-West of the United Kingdom with your family on a comfortable daily budget of £150 per person or £500 for a family of four. Picture your days wandering the historic Plymouth Hoe, joining the "Plymouth Family Adventure Tour" by Devon Tours for just £35 per adult and £20 per child—perfect for curious young minds. After a day of discovery, gather for a delicious dinner at The Boathouse Café on the waterfront, where a family meal averages £70, all while soaking in views of the sparkling harbor.Explore Plymouth in the South-West of the United Kingdom with your family on a comfortable daily budget of £150 per person or £500 for a family of four. Picture your days wandering the historic Plymouth Hoe, joining the "Plymouth Family Adventure Tour" by Devon Tours for just £35 per adult and £20 per child—perfect for curious young minds. After a day of discovery, gather for a delicious dinner at The Boathouse Café on the waterfront, where a family meal averages £70, all while soaking in views of the sparkling harbor.

Welcome to Plymouth, the vibrant heart of the South-West in the United Kingdom, where your family can enjoy unforgettable moments by the ocean. Imagine starting your day with a stroll along Plymouth Hoe, where the salty sea breeze and panoramic views of Plymouth Sound set a magical scene for a family picnic. Children can explore the historic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse or play in the grassy parks, while parents soak in the sights of boats gliding across the water. Plymouth’s waterfront buzzes with friendly cafés and ice cream stands—perfect for a family treat after a morning of adventure.

Venture just outside the city to the stunning Dartmoor National Park, a natural playground for all ages. Here, you can hike gentle trails through rolling green hills, discover secret waterfalls, and watch wild ponies roam free. Family bike rides and riverside picnics are popular, especially in spring and summer when the landscape bursts with wildflowers. For a unique water experience, head to Burrator Reservoir, where you can fish, paddle, or simply relax by the calm lakeside.

Plymouth in the South-West offers endless ways for families to connect with nature and each other. From exploring the bustling Royal William Yard to rock pooling at Jennycliff Beach, every day brings new discoveries. Whether you’re hunting for fossils, enjoying fresh seafood, or watching the sunset over the marina, Plymouth is the perfect setting for a family escape, inviting you to make lifelong memories by the sea, lakes, and hills.

United Kingdom Outdoor Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Plymouth has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Locals in Plymouth often recommend exploring the Royal William Yard, a stunning waterfront complex of historic naval buildings now home to chic restaurants and art galleries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon away from the crowds. For a peaceful escape, wander along the South West Coast Path to Jennycliff, where panoramic views of Plymouth Sound unfold and wildflowers bloom in spring. The quirky independent shops and vibrant street art of the Barbican’s backstreets reveal a creative side of the city that many visitors miss.

  • Getting around Plymouth with kids is quite convenient thanks to its compact city center and family-friendly transport options. Walking along the historic Barbican waterfront or through the Hoe offers scenic views and easy access to attractions like the National Marine Aquarium and Smeaton’s Tower. The city’s bike paths, such as those in Central Park, provide safe cycling opportunities. Public buses operated by Plymouth Citybus frequently connect key sites, making it easy to explore with children in tow.

  • For families seeking comfort and convenience in Plymouth, the Barbican and Hoe areas stand out with their proximity to the historic waterfront, Plymouth Hoe Park, and the National Marine Aquarium. These neighborhoods offer a charming blend of maritime atmosphere, easy access to family-friendly restaurants, and scenic walks along the harbor. Sutton Harbour is another excellent choice, placing you close to the Mayflower Steps and the lively Royal William Yard, where converted warehouses now house cozy accommodations and vibrant eateries.

  • Families spending two nights in Plymouth can start their adventure at the National Marine Aquarium, where kids marvel at sharks and colorful sea life. A stroll along the historic Barbican offers charming cobbled streets and the chance to explore the Mayflower Steps, linking to the city’s maritime history. Smeaton’s Tower on Plymouth Hoe provides panoramic views of Plymouth Sound, while the Royal William Yard tempts with waterfront dining and green spaces perfect for relaxing before heading home.

  • Plymouth’s Jennycliff Beach is a sunny favorite for sunbathers, thanks to its south-facing orientation and panoramic views across Plymouth Sound. The wide, grassy cliffs above the pebbly shore offer plenty of space to soak up the sun, especially during long summer afternoons. For those seeking a sandy spot, Bovisand Beach is another excellent choice, with its gently sloping golden sands and open skies that invite sunbathers to relax and enjoy the warmth.

  • For an unforgettable snowshoeing or winter hiking adventure near Plymouth, head to Myles Standish State Forest. This vast woodland transforms into a winter wonderland with miles of scenic trails winding through pine forests and around frozen ponds. The Bentley Loop and East Head Reservoir Trail are especially popular for their gentle terrain and beautiful winter vistas. After your hike, warm up in nearby Carver, where you can enjoy local cafés and the peaceful New England countryside.

  • In Plymouth, visitors can expect hotel prices to range from around £60 to £150 per night for mid-range options, while upscale stays at places like the Crowne Plaza or Boringdon Hall Hotel can reach £200 or more. Vacation rentals, especially those near the historic Barbican or the waterfront, typically start at £70 per night and can climb higher depending on size and location, particularly during events like the British Firework Championships.

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