Plymouth is a city rich in maritime history, stunning coastal views, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a visitor or a local looking to explore, here are the top 10 places you should visit in Plymouth - all easily accessible by taxi.
1. Plymouth Hoe
No visit to Plymouth is complete without a trip to the Hoe. This iconic waterfront park offers stunning views across Plymouth Sound, the famous red and white striped Smeaton's Tower lighthouse, and plenty of green space to relax.
- Why visit: Iconic views, historic lighthouse, beautiful promenade
- Best time: Sunset for spectacular views
- Taxi fare from city centre: ~5 minute ride
2. The Barbican
Plymouth's historic harbour area is packed with character. Cobbled streets, independent shops, galleries, restaurants, and the famous Mayflower Steps where the Pilgrims departed for America in 1620.
- Why visit: History, dining, shopping, boat trips
- Best time: Daytime for shopping, evening for restaurants
- Don't miss: The Mayflower Steps and Elizabethan House
3. National Marine Aquarium
The UK's largest aquarium is home to over 4,000 animals. Explore underwater worlds from British shores to tropical reefs, with interactive exhibits perfect for families.
- Why visit: Family-friendly, educational, impressive displays
- Allow: 2-3 hours for full experience
- Location: The Barbican waterfront
4. Royal William Yard
This beautifully restored former naval victualling yard is now one of Plymouth's most desirable destinations. Stunning architecture, waterfront restaurants, boutique shops, and cultural spaces.
- Why visit: Architecture, dining, photography opportunities
- Best for: Lunch or dinner with waterfront views
- Taxi fare from centre: ~10 minute ride
5. Saltram House
A magnificent Georgian mansion set in beautiful parkland, managed by the National Trust. The house featured in the 1995 film Sense and Sensibility and offers a glimpse into grand Georgian life.
- Why visit: History, gardens, film location
- Allow: Half day for house and grounds
- Taxi fare from centre: ~15 minute ride
6. Plymouth City Centre & Drake Circus
For shopping enthusiasts, Drake Circus shopping centre offers major retailers, while the surrounding streets feature independent shops, cafes, and the historic Guildhall.
- Why visit: Shopping, dining, central location
- Best for: Retail therapy and people watching
7. Mount Edgcumbe Country Park
Just a short ferry ride (or taxi via the Torpoint ferry) from Plymouth, Mount Edgcumbe offers 865 acres of stunning parkland, formal gardens, and a Tudor mansion with views back across to Plymouth.
- Why visit: Gardens, walks, historic house, views
- Allow: Full day recommended
- Getting there: Taxi to Stonehouse, then ferry, or taxi via Torpoint
8. Theatre Royal Plymouth
The largest and best attended regional producing theatre in the UK. Catch West End shows, new productions, ballet, opera, and more in this impressive venue.
- Why visit: World-class performances
- Tip: Book a taxi for after the show to avoid queues
9. Dartmoor National Park
While technically outside Plymouth, Dartmoor is an unmissable destination easily reached by taxi. Ancient tors, wild ponies, hiking trails, and picturesque villages await.
- Why visit: Natural beauty, walking, wildlife
- Recommended spots: Burrator Reservoir, Haytor, Princetown
- Taxi fare: Day trip rates available
10. The Box
Plymouth's newest attraction, The Box is a major museum, gallery and archive. Free to enter, it tells the story of Plymouth and houses impressive collections including items from the Mayflower 400 commemorations.
- Why visit: Free entry, impressive building, local history
- Location: City centre, near the railway station
- Allow: 2-3 hours
Getting Around Plymouth by Taxi
While Plymouth city centre is walkable, having a taxi makes it easy to see more attractions in a day, especially those slightly further out like Saltram House, Royal William Yard, or Dartmoor.
CabX Plymouth offers:
- Fixed prices for popular routes
- Local drivers who know the best spots
- Comfortable vehicles for day trips
- Easy online booking