Explore Plymouth – Coast, Countryside & Culture
Step out of Hoe Park House and find yourself moments away from Plymouth Hoe, the historic Barbican, the Art Deco Tinside Lido, and breathtaking sea views. Explore vibrant shops, fantastic restaurants, and lively bars, all just a short walk from your doorstep!
The Hoe
Famous for the legendary (if apocryphal) game of bowls played by Sir Francis Drake, Plymouth Hoe is one of the most iconic green spaces in the South West. It’s also literally across the street from Hoe Park House—just follow the footpath from Citadel Road East to one of the Hoe’s many entrances.
Overlooking Plymouth Sound, this expansive public park is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, a sunny afternoon on the grass, or watching ferries and fishing boats glide across the water, there’s always something to see.
You can’t miss Smeaton’s Tower, the striking red and white lighthouse, which was relocated here stone by stone in 1877 from the Eddystone Rocks. Nearby, the Royal Citadel, an imposing 17th-century fortress, is another must-see landmark.
Take the steps down to Tinside Lido, grab an ice cream on the promenade, and soak in that fresh sea air. A leisurely seafront stroll leads you to the historic Barbican, passing the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail in 1620 — a story that continues to shape Plymouth’s unique connection with the United States.
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Explore the Historic Barbican
Gin, seafood, and boat trips—the Barbican has it all! Once the heart of Plymouth’s maritime and fishing industries, today it’s a bustling waterfront district filled with restaurants, cafés, pubs, cocktail bars and galleries.
Despite its popularity, the Barbican retains its historic charm, boasting Britain’s largest collection of cobbled streets and nearly 100 listed buildings, including the world-famous Plymouth Gin Distillery. If you’re looking for atmospheric dining, visit on a warm summer evening and soak up the lively ambience. And of course, no visit is complete without a serving of traditional fish and chips!
If you’d rather see fish in their natural habitat, head to the National Marine Aquarium, home to Europe’s deepest tanks and a stunning array of sea creatures. Stroll along Sutton Harbour Marina, admire the yachts, or hop on a boat trip around Plymouth Sound and the Naval Dockyards.
Just Steps from the City Centre
As the shopping hub of the South West, Plymouth offers a vibrant city centre packed with high street brands, independent boutiques, and buzzing cafés.
From Hoe Park House, you can reach the city centre in minutes. While many shoppers head straight to Drake Circus, Plymouth’s main shopping mall, don’t miss the surrounding streets, where unique shops and hidden gems await.
Need to stock up for your stay at Hoe Park House? There are plenty of delis, supermarkets, and food markets nearby. If you’d rather dine out, Plymouth boasts an array of restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars—perfect for a post-theatre meal after an evening at Theatre Royal Plymouth or the Barbican Theatre.
Discover the Royal William Yard – A Waterfront Gem
Steeped in naval history and brimming with modern charm, Royal William Yard is one of Plymouth’s most striking waterfront destinations. Once a key Victorian naval supply depot, it’s now a vibrant hub of restaurants, bars, independent shops, and cultural spaces, all set within beautifully restored historic buildings.
From Hoe Park House, you can reach the Yard by car, on foot, or—during the warmer months—by the charming ferry service from the Barbican, making it a scenic and stress-free day out. Step aboard, enjoy the coastal views, and arrive in style at this stunning harbour-side quarter.
Food lovers are spoiled for choice, with an array of waterside restaurants and cafés offering everything from fine dining to casual brunch spots. Enjoy a cocktail with a sea view, sample fresh local seafood, or simply grab a coffee and watch the boats come and go. The Yard is also home to boutiques, art galleries, and pop-up markets, making it a fantastic place to explore.
For those who love the outdoors, Royal William Yard’s coastal setting makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll along the South West Coast Path, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across Plymouth Sound. Keep an eye out for seasonal events, from outdoor cinema nights to artisan markets and live performances.
With its blend of history, dining, and culture, Royal William Yard is a must-visit during your stay at Hoe Park House—whether for a long, lazy lunch or an evening by the water. And with Plymouth Boat Trips offering a scenic ferry ride from the Barbican, getting there is all part of the experience!
Check out our See & Do page for more details, links and sugestions…