Plymouth offers a huge range of summer holiday events and activities for all the family – and Sutton Harbour is at the heart of the action. With a packed programme of activities and attractions on the waterfront and in the city, Plymouth is the place to be this summer – from June right the way through to September, look forward to the events you know and love and some new ones too. Here’s a rundown of some of the highlights happening around Sutton Harbour and beyond.
Activities throughout the summer
As well as the main events happening by the seafront, there are also activities happening throughout the summer.
Boat trips in Plymouth
Plymouth Boat Trips has a summer schedule of sunset cruises across the sound, scenic harbour cruises, and coastal explorer cruises. All will give you the chance to see the iconic Plymouth coastline from a different perspective while getting to learn more about the city. Each trip departs from the Barbican Landing Stage where you can also find Plymouth Boat Trips’ information and ticket booth.
If you are looking for something a bit different, they also host a range of 18+ evening events in the form of party cruises throughout the summer. Whether you are into ultimate 80s, Ibiza club classics or live bands there is something for everyone.
For those more interested in the magical environment of the underwater inhabitants in the Plymouth Sound, you can also join the Ocean Conservation Trust on a one-of-a-kind sailing trip. Join Marine Biologists who will teach you about the importance of seagrass meadows, encounter fascinating local marine species and uncover the natural beauty of the harbour.
National Marine Aquarium
The National Marine Aquarium has also lined up some great events taking place over the next few months. Their newest event, the ‘Zebra Shark Experience’, is a guided tour of the exhibits followed by the preparation of Zeus the shark’s lunch and the chance to feed him too! This event, and their popular ‘Feed the Turtle’ event are great opportunities to go behind the scenes for an incredible experience. You can also snorkel in the exhibits, have a sleepover and join their team of conservationists for snorkelling or rock pooling.
Historical attractions in Plymouth
If you are interested in learning more about or getting a glimpse into the history of Plymouth, Sutton Harbour is the city’s historic quarter. You can find old, cobbled streets, Elizabethan and Tudor architecture as well as historical attractions. Plymouth Gin Distillery is the oldest working distillery in England and the building dates back even further to 1431. You can also visit the Mayflower Steps and the Mayflower museum, as well as the Elizabethan House and Gardens for a glimpse into 16th century living.
Alfresco drinking and dining
HonkyTonk Wine Library is a unique venue on the East side of the harbour with a packed events calendar all year round. This summer, there is a steady line up of live music, comedy nights, roast dinners and wine tasting. Enjoy a glass of wine or two at the harbour’s edge and watch the sun set on a summer evening.
There are also plenty of great other places to dine in Sutton Harbour with something for everyone.
More things to do in Plymouth in the summer holidays
On the 14th June, the Eddystone Charity Sailing Pursuit will see a fleet of yachts racing out to the Eddystone Lighthouse from the Sound and back to raise funds for a variety of charities. Catch a glimpse from Sutton Harbour and then head up towards the Hoe to see the rest of the action. Come down and cheer on the participants as they compete for the winning spot.
Plymouth Summer Sessions also return to the city this year after last year’s great success. This year’s line-up is full of huge acts like Snow Patrol, Pendulum, The Corrs and James taking place between the 12th and 15th June. The stage will be set on the Hoe but be sure to stop by Sutton Harbour for some food and drinks beforehand to make the most of the event. Plus, visitors to Sutton Harbour may also be able to hear a glimpse of the performances!
On the 26th June, the Strength of Spirit Games rehabilitation triathlon hosted by the Royal Navy will also return to the Hoe this summer. The games are hosted as part of the Armed Forces Week celebrations and visitors are invited to watch the games and show their support for the competitors who are service personnel in recovery and medically discharged veterans. They will begin with a swim at the Tinside Lido, followed by cycling along the Hoe promenade and a static rowing challenge to finish. Armed Forces Day itself takes place on 28th June with an exciting day of display, parades and activities on the Hoe.
If you would like to take a swim in a bit more of a relaxed setting, the Tinside Lido has already opened for the summer season. Enjoy the scheduled programme of events, or swim at your own pace as you enjoy the salt water and sun deck. The 21st June marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year, and you can observe it with a 4:30am swim at the Lido. Then pop down to Sutton Harbour and tuck into a well deserved breakfast and a nice, hot coffee.
Smeaton’s Tower is also open until the 28th September so make this summer your chance to climb the 72 foot high lighthouse. Once you have made it to the top you can enjoy panoramic views of the Plymouth Sound, your reward for conquering the 93 steps and steep ladders! Afterwards, why not treat yourself to a picturesque, gentle, downhill stroll to Sutton Harbour and the Barbican to put your feet up and sip some well-earned refreshments?
The British Firework Championships and SeaFest
The iconic British Firework Championships will take place in Plymouth on the 13th and 14th August in 2025. This year’s ‘Champion of Champions’ twist will see six champion fireworks companies competing for the ultimate winning spot. As well as the usual events and attractions on Plymouth Hoe, you can also find a great spot to watch the fireworks from Sutton Harbour. Visit one of the harbour’s restaurants for dinner before the event then head off to find the best view!
Seafest returns to Sutton Harbour and the Barbican on the 13th and 14th September as well as across the waterfront. This great festival is celebrated annually with sustainably caught fresh fish and seafood dishes on offer. There is also entertainment in the form of live chef demonstrations, traders selling handmade wares and gifts and information about our ocean and how to protect it. The festival is free to attend and there will also be plenty of activities for children so it’s a great family day out.
Summer in Plymouth
There are so many things to enjoy once summer arrives in Britain’s Ocean City. The proximity to the coast means you can enjoy all of the benefits of the seaside while also having access to great events and world-class attractions. You can prioritise yourself with relaxing yoga sessions at the National Marine Aquarium, sail from Sutton Harbour for an enjoyable day on the water or bring the whole family along to take part in a busy events calendar. We can’t wait to see you all at Sutton Harbour this summer!
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