Bank Holiday Escapes – beaches to visit just a stone’s throw from Sutton Harbour

Mount batten

Situated a 15-minute drive from the marina, it's also possible to take the water taxi (Mount Batten Ferry) from the Barbican landing stage to this historic peninsula. Mount Batten is one of Plymouth's best kept secrets and popular with sailing and water sport enthusiasts. Formerly utilised exclusively as a flying boat station and Royal Air Force Base from 1913 - 1986, it was then opened to the public and enjoys panoramic views of Plymouth Sound. It now has a couple of small private gated propery developments, a water sports and activities centre called Mount Batten Centre, a pub called the Mount Batten Inn and a restaurant called The Bridge. The beach is a mix of sand and pebble and faces directly south with incredible views towards the Beakwater, Drake's Island and over to Mout Edgecume. It's a family favourite for picnics, rockpooling and launching kayaks and paddle boards. Please note there are some steps leading down to the beach. The best views are from the top of the mount where the original Mount Batten Tower still stands from 1652 - a 30-foot high circular artillery fort. The breakwater pier (Cattewater Breakwater) extends out into the sea in front of Plymouth Hoe and is nice and flat for an easy stroll and even a spot of fishing. It also provides an additional breakwater and protection for Sutton Harbour and the marina from the English Channel, helping ensure we remain able to offer especially safe and secure berthing. You can also easily sail from King Point Marina or Sutton Harbour Marina and drop anchor near here at Jennycliff Bay, a cosy little oasis that provides ideal shelter from an easterly wind and take the tender into the beach, but be careful of the rocky outcrops hidden at high tide.

Bovisand Beach

Take the South West Coast Path futher east and up over Jennycliff and you'll notice some of the most breath-taking views of Plymouth's waterfront which explain why it became known as

Britain's Ocean City. Continue past the cafe and follow the signs for the SW Coast Path which is a narrow cliff top walk partly sheltered by trees. It takes about an hour to walk from Mount Batten to Bovisand. It has two golden sandy beaches, a static caravan holiday park, holiday chalet bungalows and a cafe. There is also the former Fort Bovisand and dive centre which is earmarked for new development. Further around the coast, there is also access to the sea via steps down the cliff and grass area and public conveniences. Parking is easy if you decide to visit by car.

Wembury

Continuing along the South West Coast Path, or a direct 20-minute drive from the marina, past Heybrook Bay, (or pop into the pub for a drink and bite to eat), is this lovely pebble beach which is very popular with local residents. It is set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and enjoys spectacular views. Again, it's great for rockpooling, kayaking and paddle boarding and if surf's up then try your hand at hanging ten! The waters are quite shallow and clean, making it ideal for bathing and for children to paddle - the beach even won and award from the Marina Conservation Society. The National Trust car park is free to members or pay and display and there is a lovely little cafe called the Old Mill. You can visit the Wembury Marina Centre and go horse riding from the stables just behind the beach.