Plymouth, UK, is a city that invites exploration — whether you’re interested in maritime history, scenic views, or discovering local neighborhoods. Its natural harbor, historic sites, and vibrant waterfront make it an ideal place for guided tours. Among the many options, we especially like the 1-hour Scenic Harbour Cruise for its relaxed pace and stunning coast views, and the Best of Plymouth Walking Tour for a lively, family-friendly introduction to the city’s highlights. If you want a more personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local offers tailored insights, and for those who enjoy a good puzzle, the City Walking Tour & Exploration Game makes sightseeing fun and interactive.
To help you pick the perfect tour, we’ve put together this guide to the top four experiences in Plymouth. Each offers a different way to enjoy the city, whether by boat, foot, or game, ensuring there’s something for all’s interests and travel style.
1. Plymouth: 1-Hour Scenic Harbour Cruise
This scenic harbour cruise is a relaxing way to see Plymouth’s coast and dockyards in just one hour. Departing daily from The Barbican Landing Stage, this tour offers a perfect quick escape to enjoy the stunning views of the Devon and Cornish coast. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of maritime beauty without committing hours.
What makes this cruise stand out is the opportunity to spot mighty warships and nuclear submarines at the largest Naval Dockyard in Western Europe. The route includes cruising past Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrims set sail, and Drake’s Island, adding historical flavor to your sightseeing. The commentary during the trip is informative, with reviews praising the knowledge of the guides and the friendly staff. At just $16.84 per person, it’s a good deal for an hour of memorable views.
This tour is especially suited for those with limited time, families, or anyone wanting to combine scenic beauty with a bit of naval history. The reviews highlight how both first-time visitors and locals enjoy the relaxed, informative atmosphere.
Bottom line: An affordable, scenic introduction to Plymouth’s coast and history, perfect for a quick taste of the city from the water.
2. Plymouth: Best of Plymouth Walking Tour
For a more in-depth look at Plymouth, the Best of Plymouth Walking Tour offers an engaging 102-minute stroll through the historic Barbican and onto the Hoe, with views overlooking Plymouth Sound. This tour is highly rated — a perfect choice for first-timers who want to cover the main sights while soaking up the city’s atmosphere.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is designed to be fun and accessible for everyone, including families and dog owners. It’s also stair-free and accessible for mobility scooters, making it inclusive for those with mobility concerns. The guide shares stories about Plymouth’s evolution and points out notable landmarks, turning history into an engaging story rather than just a list of dates.
Priced at $21.22 per person, the tour offers good value given its length and quality. Reviewers mention the guide’s flexibility and friendly approach, with many praising it as a “must-do” for first visits.
Bottom line: An accessible, lively introduction to Plymouth’s main sights, cultural highlights, and local stories — great for those who want to walk and learn.
3. Best of Plymouth: Private Walking Tour with a Local
If you prefer a more personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local is an excellent way to explore Plymouth at your own pace. This tailored tour can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your interests, and is led by a local guide eager to show you hidden corners and authentic spots.
The focus here is on local neighborhoods, secret spots, and insider tips, rather than just the standard tourist attractions. The guide can adapt the route to your preferences, whether you’re interested in history, art, or food. This flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the typical itinerary.
While the reviews are mixed, the potential for a highly customized experience makes this tour appealing. It’s perfect for special occasions or travelers with specific interests who don’t want a one-size-fits-all approach.
Bottom line: A tailored, immersive tour for those who want to see Plymouth through the eyes of a local, with the flexibility to explore what interests you most.
4. Plymouth: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game
Looking for a fun, interactive way to explore Plymouth? The City Walking Tour & Exploration Game uses the Go Quest Adventures app for a self-guided experience. Up to five people can play at once for just $39, making it an affordable group activity.
This tour adds a puzzle and challenge element to sightseeing—think of it as an escape room on the go. As you explore the city’s streets, you’ll solve puzzles and complete challenges that reveal interesting facts about Plymouth’s landmarks and hidden corners. The game is flexible, with a 365-day validity period, so you can start whenever it suits you.
Reviewers appreciate the mix of fun and education, with many noting how it keeps everyone engaged, especially kids. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or active travelers who prefer a more dynamic experience rather than traditional walking tours.
Bottom line: A lively, puzzle-based way to discover Plymouth’s highlights, perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with some brain teasers.
$39.00 per group up to 5
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how you like to explore. If you want a quick, scenic introduction to Plymouth’s coast, the Harbour Cruise offers a relaxing view with historical insights. For a lively walk through main sights, the Best of Plymouth Walking Tour is perfect for those who enjoy guided outings on foot. If you’re after a personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour with a Local is your best bet, especially if you have specific interests. Lastly, for families or groups who want a fun, interactive challenge, the City Walking Tour & Exploration Game keeps everyone engaged with puzzles and surprises.
Think about how much time you want to spend, whether you prefer to be outdoors or have a guided experience, and if you’re traveling with children or mobility needs. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and tour.
Final Thoughts
Plymouth offers a variety of ways to experience its scenic, historic, and lively sides. For an easy introduction, the Harbour Cruise is hard to beat — it’s affordable, scenic, and informative. For those wanting a deep dive into the city’s streets, the Best of Plymouth Walking Tour provides a lively, accessible overview. If you’re after a personalized touch, the Private Tour allows you to tailor your day, while the Exploration Game injects a dose of fun into sightseeing.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out. Plymouth’s charm is best enjoyed with a clear plan, so pick the experience that suits your style and interests — and get ready to explore this historic port city from new angles.