If you are looking for ideas of what to do in Plymouth this summer, look no further. There’s no better place to spend the sunny season than Britain’s Ocean City. Sutton Harbour and the Barbican provide a natural starting point for exploring everything the city has to offer. From the ever-popular Pirates Weekend to the annual British Firework Championships, locals and visitors alike can expect a busy summer in Plymouth.
Plymouth Pirates Weekend – 9–10 May 2026
A firm favourite in the early part of the season, Plymouth Pirates Weekend is one of the first major highlights for those looking into what to do in Plymouth this summer. Taking place across the city’s waterfront, the event draws on the city’s maritime past for a great, busy weekend of family fun.
Activities begin from 10am on Saturday 9th May and continue through to Sunday 10th May with a Maritime Corps drum parade and an appearance from Jonty Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow. Throughout the day there will be sea shanty performances, parades, musket firing, puppet shows and more!
There will also be a whole host of exhibitors to check out. Shop for jewellery, gifts and pirate memorabilia, make charitable donations through games and raffles and learn more about Plymouth’s maritime history and conservation efforts.
Dressing up is not mandatory but highly encouraged (and lots of fun)! There is plenty of family fun to be had on this popular weekend, with activities spanning across the waterfront.
The National Marine Aquarium
Sutton Harbour is home to the largest aquarium in the UK with more than 5,000 marine animals on display. Open daily from 10am – 5pm, you can enjoy the exhibits and exciting reefs on display while also learning more about the work of the aquarium’s charity, the Ocean Conservation Trust.
The aquarium also hosts a range of events and experiences year round, from feeding the green sea turtle to aquarium sleepovers, rock pooling, boat trips and snorkel safaris! Their gift shop is full of great gifts, souvenirs and sustainable solutions too. Plus, each paid for entrance ticket gets you a complimentary annual pass so you can keep coming back for free for the next 12 months.
Coastal landmarks and harbour life
It wouldn’t be summer in Plymouth without a visit to the seafront! Whether you’re a swimmer, a sailor or more of a sunbather, you’re guaranteed to enjoy time by the water.
Plus, it’s a great way to tick off your bucket list of seeing some iconic coastal landmarks. In Sutton Harbour, you’ll be able to spot the 10 metre high Leviathan (nicknamed locally as ‘The Prawn’). This interesting, mythical sea creature was created by Brian Fell in 1999 and has had a home on the harbour’s cobbles since.
Just metres away from the Leviathan, you’ll see the Mayflower Steps. Visitors to Plymouth come from far and wide to see the site celebrating the departure of the Pilgrims to settle in North America in 1620 along with other key events. You can find out more about its history at the Mayflower Museum.
With its Art Deco setting and sea views, the Tinside Lido sits against the cliff face and is a must-see on your list. An icon of Plymouth’s seafront, built in 1935; families have been taking a dip there for almost 100 years! It’s the perfect way to swim and play at a more relaxed pace while still getting to enjoy the sea thanks to its full accessibility. Plus, the newly refurbished pool is now hosting a whole variety of events over the summer from solstice swims to silent discos and murder mysteries!
Throughout the summer, you can also enjoy being around the water with plenty of alfresco drinking and dining options at Sutton Harbour. Soak up the atmosphere, take in some historic architecture and enjoy great views of the water.
British Firework Championships – 12-13 August 2026
One of the most anticipated moments in the city’s calendar, the British Firework Championships, brings large crowds to Plymouth each summer. This year’s event will take place across Wednesday 12th and Thursday 13th August. These two magical evenings will see six pyrotechnics groups compete to see who brings the best display, wows the crowd and impresses the judges.
The display can be enjoyed from Sutton Harbour without missing a moment. Many choose to spend time dining by the water before finding the perfect spot to watch the show.
This event is hugely popular and many people travel to the city for the occasion. Be sure to book tables in advance, plan travel arrangements and play close attention to travel updates, road closures and access information.
Discover Sutton Harbour this summer
When it comes to what to do in Plymouth this summer, whether you’re visiting for a specific event or simply spending time by the water, Sutton Harbour is central to the occasion. Its great location and atmosphere naturally make it a great place to experience the city and enjoy yourself throughout the summer months. We can’t wait to see you!
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