FAQs about Plymouth

Find answers to common questions about visiting Plymouth, including travel tips, attractions, events, and accommodations. 

Where is Plymouth?

Plymouth is located in south Devon and borders Cornwall. Plymouth is the largest city in Devon.

Plymouth is 36 miles south of Exeter, 120 miles from Bristol and 210 miles from London.

What is Plymouth's history?

Plymouth boasts a rich maritime history, serving as the departure point for the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620. Plymouth's naval heritage thrived through centuries as a key Royal Navy base, and its dockyard, Devonport, remains the largest in Western Europe.

The city faced extensive rebuilding after World War II bombings but emerged with a modernised vision.

Is Plymouth worth visiting?

Yes! We certainly recommend you pay us a visit. Plymouth, Britain's Ocean City, is home to unmissable events, the UK's first National Marine Park, great live music and so much more. Find out all the things to see and do in the Plymouth.

What events take place in Plymouth?

There are plenty of unmissable events taking place in Plymouth all year round. Beginning with Pirates Weekend in May, savouring tasty food at Flavour Fest, enjoying the UK's best fireworks at the British Firework Championships, celebrating our connection with the sea at Seafest before Plymouth becomes full of festive cheer with magical Christmas events.

Check out all the major events in Plymouth.

What is there to do in Plymouth?

There are plenty of fun things to do in Plymouth. There are a wide variety of exciting and unique attractions to check out. Visit the What's On Guide where you can discover all the events taking place in the city throughout the year.

Is Plymouth a dog-friendly place to visit?

Plymouth is packed with dog-friendly things to do. From dog-friendly accommodation providers, dog-friendly restaurants, and dog-friendly attractions there's so much to explore here for those travelling with a four-legged friend. Visit the dog-friendly Plymouth page to plan your journey.

How can I get to Plymouth?

You can travel to Plymouth using a variety of transport methods.

Air: Plymouth's nearest airport is located in Exeter which is 48 miles (1 hour by car). Other nearby airports include Newquay which is 48 miles away (1 hour 15 minutes by car) and Bristol Airport which is 110 miles away (2 hours by car).

Road: Plymouth is well-connected by major routes with journeys to the city including travel along the M5 and the A38 if you are travelling to Plymouth from the north and east.

If you are visiting from the west (Cornwall) the A38 runs from Bodmin across the Tamar Bridge to Plymouth.

Train: A number of GWR rail services connect Plymouth by rail. Plymouth has a direct route to London via train which takes around 3 hours. Frequent direct services run from Plymouth to Exeter and Bristol. Direct services also run from services in Cornwall including Penzance and Truro.

What landmarks are there in Plymouth?

Plymouth is full of fascinating landmarks to explore. Discover the unmissable Smeaton's Tower on Plymouth Hoe, walk in the steps of the Pilgrims at the Mayflower Steps, and take a dip in the art-deco Tinside Lido.

Discover all the landmarks to see in Plymouth.