Just 30 minutes from Higher Longford Cottages, Britain’s Ocean City offers the perfect day out. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, great food or simply enjoying the sea air, Plymouth has something for everyone.
Stress-Free Parking at George Park & Ride
Avoid city centre traffic by parking at George Park & Ride, conveniently located off the A38. Frequent buses take you directly into the city, leaving you free to enjoy the day without worrying about parking.
Dive Into the National Marine Aquarium
Start your adventure at the National Marine Aquarium, the UK’s largest aquarium. Home to sharks, rays, turtles and colourful tropical fish, it’s a fascinating attraction for visitors of all ages.
Walk Along Plymouth Hoe
No trip to Plymouth is complete without visiting Plymouth Hoe. Enjoy panoramic views over Plymouth Sound, stroll through the gardens and visit the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse.
The Hoe is also home to the impressive Naval Memorial, which commemorates sailors from the Royal Navy and Commonwealth who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars. Standing proudly above the city, it reflects Plymouth’s long and proud maritime heritage.
Explore the Historic Barbican
Wander through the cobbled streets of the Barbican, one of the oldest parts of Plymouth. This charming area is full of independent shops, galleries and cafés and is where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail aboard the Mayflower in 1620.
Music fans may be interested to know that The Beatles visited Plymouth several times during the 1960s, performing to packed audiences and helping create a wave of Beatlemania across the South West.
Take to the Water
Boat trips leave regularly from the Barbican and Sutton Harbour, offering:
- Plymouth Sound harbour cruises.
- Ferry trips to Mount Edgcumbe.
- Scenic cruises around Drake’s Island.
- Wildlife and evening cruises.
Seeing Plymouth from the water provides a unique perspective on this historic naval city.
Visit the Magnificent Royal William Yard
One of Plymouth’s most impressive landmarks, Royal William Yard is a beautifully restored collection of Grade I listed buildings overlooking the sea.
Designed by Sir John Rennie and completed in the nineteenth century, the Yard originally supplied food and provisions to the Royal Navy. Today, these grand limestone buildings have been transformed into stylish restaurants, cafés, shops and galleries whilst retaining their remarkable architecture and historic character.
Take a leisurely waterfront walk, enjoy an ice cream, or simply relax and watch the boats sailing in and out of Plymouth Sound.
Discover Plymouth Market
Known locally as Plymouth’s Pannier Market, Plymouth Market has been at the heart of city life since 1959. With more than 100 independent traders, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and crafts to fashion, gifts and international cuisine.
It’s a wonderful place to experience local life and pick up something unique.
Shopping at Drake Circus
For high street shopping, head to Drake Circus Shopping Centre. With over 70 stores including Marks & Spencer, Next, Zara, H&M and Boots, it’s one of the South West’s premier shopping destinations.
Catch a Film at the Cinema
If the weather turns or you fancy a relaxing afternoon, enjoy the latest blockbuster at Cineworld Plymouth, located alongside Drake Circus. With comfortable screens and a variety of restaurants nearby, it’s perfect for rounding off your day.
Enjoy Fresh Devon Seafood
Plymouth is renowned for its seafood. From traditional fish and chips on the Barbican to elegant seafood restaurants at Royal William Yard, you’ll find locally landed fish, crab and mussels fresh from the waters of Plymouth Sound.
Dining by the water as the sun begins to set is one of the highlights of any visit.
Discover The Box Museum
The Box Museum and Gallery is one of Plymouth’s cultural treasures and admission is free. Explore exhibitions celebrating Plymouth’s history, maritime heritage, archaeology and art collections.
The museum tells the story of the city through the centuries and regularly hosts fascinating temporary exhibitions.
End the Day with a Sunset Walk
Before heading back to Higher Longford Cottages, enjoy one final stroll along Plymouth Hoe and take in the spectacular views across the sea. As the evening sun reflects on Plymouth Sound, you’ll understand why this historic city is known as Britain’s Ocean City.
Stay at Higher Longford Cottages
Perfectly located near Tavistock and Dartmoor National Park, Higher Longford Cottages provide an ideal base for exploring Plymouth and the surrounding Devon countryside. Whether you’re looking for history, shopping, family attractions or coastal scenery, a day trip to Plymouth promises memories to treasure.
Book your stay at Higher Longford Cottages and discover the best of Devon—from the wild beauty of Dartmoor to the historic waterfront of Britain’s Ocean City.