If you’re looking for an enticing weekend getaway in Devon this summer, you need to visit Plymouth’s Sutton Harbour. This quaint area takes you away from the hubbub of the city centre and out towards the sea. It is packed with history while also boasting a contemporary lifestyle scene.
Walk along the age-old cobbles towards the newest dining establishments and take in the modern superyachts adorning the historic harbour. There are plenty of ways to enjoy a weekend getaway in Sutton Harbour and make use of 48 hours.
Travel and Accommodation
Plymouth is the largest city in Devon and easy to get to from across the country and beyond. There are plenty of public transport hubs from the train station to the coach station and the ferry port. If you’re driving, the city is just under an hour from the M5. Plus, you are around an hour’s drive from Exeter Airport and about 1.5 hours from Cornwall Airport Newquay.
There are also plenty of local hotels and B&Bs to stay in over the weekend. Whether you’re looking for something more central, or somewhere closer to the sea, you can certainly take your pick.
Friday Evening
Take it steady on Friday afternoon and into the evening after you have arrived. Make the most of the start to your weekend getaway with a relaxing Summer Sundowner Cruise from Plymouth Boat Trips. An essential start to any summer evening, you can unwind with a complimentary drink as you take in the breathtaking scenery of the Devon and Cornwall coast from the water.
Once you’re back on land, you’re just minutes away from dining destinations such as the Armado Lounge and The Ship. Enjoy a delicious dinner at either restaurant, both of which have spectacular views of the harbour.
Whether you’re retiring early for tomorrow’s adventures, or looking to stay out a little later, you’re also in the right place to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Stay for a drink or head to the Bonne Santé cocktail bar.
Saturday
If breakfast is the first port of call, taking a gentle stroll to Sutton Harbour will see you surrounded by plenty of dining options. Cap’n Jaspers enjoys legendary status in Plymouth and offers the chance to breakfast outside in a fantastic location right at the harbour’s edge. Boston Tea Party also has a popular breakfast menu which caters to everyone. From traditional fry-ups to breakfast muffins and pancakes, wash it all down with a coffee or a fresh fruit smoothie.
If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, the quaint Fig & Thyme can be found on Southside Street. Try their signature waffles, crab on toast or crumpets topped with avocado, hot smoked salmon topped with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
Sightseeing
Stepping out of Fig & Thyme sees you perfectly positioned to start the sightseeing portion of your weekend getaway. Southside Street leads on to New Street which, ironically, is Plymouth’s oldest street. Along here you will see treasures such as the Elizabethan House which dates back to 1631 as well as the stunning Elizabethan Gardens.
Continue down New Street to emerge back at Sutton Harbour where you will find the Mayflower Museum and the Mayflower Steps. Discover the harbour’s history and learn the stories of Sir Francis Drake and of the Pilgrims leaving England aboard the Mayflower, headed towards North America.
Continue your walk along the water’s edge and you will find yourself on Plymouth Hoe. As well as taking in stunning panoramic views of Plymouth Sound, you will also find Smeaton’s Tower. This iconic lighthouse has become synonymous with Britain’s Ocean City and visitors can also head up the steps to take a look inside as well as the impressive view from the top,
Afternoon Tea
If all that exploring has worked up your appetite, it might be time for a pit stop. Along the East side of Sutton Harbour, you will find Daisy’s Tea Rooms and Coffee Shop. Offering a friendly atmosphere and delicious cream teas, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat and ready yourself for an afternoon of exploring.
If you’ve still got plenty of pep in your step, stop by Creamer’s Street Barista, located by the water near the Armado Lounge. This iconic little red van is home to owner Louise’s doughnut and coffee business. She also sells plenty of other refreshments and has seating on the cobbles, so you enjoy the atmosphere of the quayside.
Plymouth Gin
What weekend getaway would be complete without sampling some of the iconic Plymouth Gin? Plymouth Gin Distillery is the oldest working distillery in England and housed at the site of an old monastery dating back to the 1400s.
Each year, thousands of visitors come to Plymouth to take a tour of the distillery. Depending on how much time you have and how interested you are, they offer a variety of different tours to suit. Plus, choose between a complimentary miniature of Plymouth Gin or a G&T to enjoy in the Refectory Bar at the end of your visit.
World Cuisine
The small but mighty area of Sutton Harbour offers plenty of world cuisine dining options to enjoy for your weekend getaway.
Supha’s Street Food Emporium offers a real taste of Asian-fusion street food from Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia. For something a little closer to home, just next door to Supha’s, you can find the Miller & Carter Steakhouse serving up British and Irish steaks from ethically-sourced and trusted farmers.
Further along the harbour, back towards the Barbican, get a taste of Italy at The Stable serving up sourdough pizzas, sharers, salads and more. Plus, you can enjoy a selection of local beers and ciders as you take in the great views over the harbour.
Looking for some wine after you’ve dined? HonkyTonk Wine Library have a whole host of wine, champagne and more for visitors to indulge. Enjoy it inside or out and enjoy the views across the water.
Sunday
National Marine Aquarium
After you’ve grabbed some brunch to fuel you up for the day, it’s time to head to the National Marine Aquarium. This is a must-visit attraction for any weekend getaway to Sutton Harbour and recently featured in the popular BBC series ‘Secrets of the Aquarium’.
The largest aquarium in the UK, it is home to more than 5,000 underwater inhabitants, and part of the Ocean Conservation Trust charity. Learn about conservation efforts in local waters while also discovering their immersive exhibits.
Lunch
Grab some lunch at the Aquarium or keep it true to Britain’s Ocean City and visit neighbouring Rockfish. Offering fresh fish caught that day, your server will talk you through the daily catch and how it can be cooked. Why not sit outside at the Sardine Bar and watch as the fishing and leisure boats come and go?
If you’re after some classic fish and chips, just head across the footbridge to The Harbour restaurant. Dine in or grab some chips to go and enjoy options for everyone, including vegans and vegetarians.
If you’d rather something other than seafood, then why not head to The Greek? Sat on the quayside, just across from the Mayflower Museum, this kiosk offers authentic Grecian food to take away. From souvlaki wraps to salads, sides and ice cream, it makes for the perfect refreshing lunch.
Souvenir Shopping and Coffee
Commemorate your weekend getaway in Devon by doing some souvenir shopping on Southside Street before you go. With plenty of local, independent retailers selling gifts, jewellery, art and more, find something for yourselves or family and friends.
Before you go, fuel up with a refreshing iced latte or a creamy cappuccino at either Alfresco or The Cornish Bakery. Alfresco sits on the old tram tracks just next to The Greek and also offer authentic Italian cannoli to enjoy on your journey home.
Whether you’re a couple, a family or a group of friends, looking for a weekend getaway in Devon, you can’t go wrong with Plymouth’s Sutton Harbour. We hope to ‘sea’ you soon.
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