Imagine living in a city where you could enjoy a sea swim in the morning, a walk along the South West Coast Path during your lunch break, and then see an incredible show at the theatre that evening.
Plymouth has all that to offer – and a lot more!
Also known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth boasts a stunning waterfront location. Sandwiched between the waves of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and the rolling moorland of Dartmoor National Park, with amazing beaches just a short distance away, there’s lots to see and do if you love exploring the great outdoors.
You can experience all of this alongside the benefits of living in a thriving city, with great culture, entertainment, food and shopping.
The city’s impressive waterfront is home to the cobbled streets of the Barbican, with independent shops, pubs and restaurants; the open expanse of Plymouth Hoe with great views over the water and art-deco outdoor pool Tinside Lido; and Royal William Yard, a collection of grade I listed former military buildings that have been transformed into restaurants, bars and galleries.
Plymouth is steeped in history and has played a big role in many important historical moments, including the departure of the Mayflower Pilgrims. This means there’s a wealth of fascinating maritime heritage to discover.
When it comes to culture, the Theatre Royal Plymouth is one of the largest and best-attended regional theatres in the UK which regularly welcomes some of the biggest touring productions. Plymouth is also home to 4 cinemas, including an arts cinema, and The Box, a museum and art gallery which features permanent collections as well as an ever-changing programme of touring exhibitions.
The city is famous its impressive events programme and each year hosts an amazing array of free events for the whole family to enjoy. This includes Pirates Weekend, Flavour Fest, Armed Forces Day and the British Firework Championships.
Living in Plymouth
Staff in our Children’s Services tell us why they love living in Plymouth.
Getting to Plymouth
The city benefits from excellent transport links including road, rail and sea. We are only three hours from London by train and less than an hour from Exeter.
Exeter Airport is less than an hour away, Newquay Airport just over an hour and Bristol Airport around two hours away, all offering a range of international flights.
Our centrally-located train station offers 16 daily services to London, including three high-speed ones. Brittany Ferries also run frequent services to France and Spain from Plymouth.
Getting around Plymouth
Schools in Plymouth
Information about school admissions