Sutton Harbour and Plymouth Things to do

Plymouth is a vibrant waterfront city packed with a huge range of family-friendly venues, popular attractions and historic landmarks. There’s plenty for all ages to enjoy from high-street shopping to exploring the National Marine Aquarium, and all within a 10 minute walk.

The city is steeped in history and Sutton Harbour, formerly known as Sutton Pool, is one of the oldest parts of Plymouth and the original port for the city. Known for its cobbled streets and maritime history, the harbour not only has a full range of amenities on its doorstep but it is also home to some leading national attractions and exciting entertainments.

There is plenty of accessible parking in the area making Sutton Harbour the perfect base to explore the rest of the city.

Mayflower Steps

At the entrance of the harbour lies the Mayflower Steps Memorial commemorating the site where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America on board the Mayflower in 1620.

Adjacent to the steps is the Mayflower Museum, which details the legendary voyage, bringing to life the reality of the day-to-day living conditions on board. Visitors can also take a walk through history on the one-mile Harbour Heritage Trail circling Sutton Harbour.

Historical Attractions

Hidden amongst the streets leading to the harbour, the Elizabethan House and Gardens offers an authentic recreation of Plymouth in the 16th century. The house was opened as a museum in 1930 after being saved from demolition and retains many of its original features, with six rooms on three floors.   

The Merchant’s House is situated in one of Plymouth’s oldest streets and is one of the city’s finest surviving examples of a 16th and 17th century residence. The house features seven themed rooms spanning Plymouth’s history and shows the contrast of living conditions across the class system. 

The Barbican

Renowned for its cobbled streets and Tudor buildings, this historic quarter spans Southside Street and the surrounding streets with a host of independent shops, cafes, art galleries, and the famous Plymouth Gin Distillery, the oldest working gin distillery in England, which is based in a building dating back to 1431.