Things to Do in Plymouth with Kids
By Editorial Team · Last updated 15/08/2026
Plymouth offers a fantastic blend of history and coastal charm – it’s a city that really does have something for everyone, especially families looking for an engaging UK getaway. We've been researching the best ways to experience Plymouth with children, and we've discovered a surprising amount of activity options available, all perfectly suited for creating lasting memories. Let's explore what’s on offer and how you can plan your family adventure.
The most immediately appealing categories for families are undoubtedly our Walking Tours. There are sixteen different tours available in Plymouth, ranging in price from £8 to £395 – that gives you a really broad spectrum of options depending on your budget and the length of exploration you’re after. Walking Tours naturally lend themselves well to children; they offer a chance to discover iconic landmarks at a pace that suits them, and many routes incorporate stories and historical details that can capture their imaginations. The more affordable tours will allow for plenty of breaks and flexibility, while the higher-priced options could be perfect for families wanting a really immersive experience.
When considering a walking tour, think about what interests your children most. Plymouth’s rich maritime history is central to much of its appeal, and several tours focus on the city's role in naval battles and exploration. You can easily tailor the length of a walk to suit younger children; shorter routes around key areas like the Barbican offer plenty of opportunities for spotting interesting buildings and soaking up the atmosphere.
We also want to highlight the potential for boat trips, though we don’t currently have any specific boat tour categories listed. However, given Plymouth's location on the coast, it is certainly feasible that there are operators offering family-friendly excursions – these would be fantastic for children who love being out on the water and spotting marine life. The cost of such an excursion could likely fall within the £8 to £395 range depending on the length and type of journey.
For families with older children, or those who enjoy a more active experience, our Walking Tours provide a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse landscapes. We have identified that there is one particular tour – the "Fowey, Looe & Polperro Mining, Fishing & Smuggling Cornwall Tour" – which has received an outstanding rating of 5.0/5. While this tour takes place in Cornwall, it highlights the kind of engaging and informative tours available to us, focusing on historical and natural elements that are likely to appeal to a wide range of ages. It’s worth noting that this tour is priced at £395, reflecting the depth of its content and the duration of the excursion.
It's important to note that certain types of tours aren’t necessarily ideal for young children. Tours focused heavily on nightlife or evening activities wouldn’t be suitable for families travelling with little ones. Similarly, experiences centered around adult-oriented entertainment would likely leave younger visitors feeling bored and disinterested.
Let’s consider the potential for learning about local wildlife; while we don't have a specific category dedicated to this, there are likely opportunities to explore Plymouth’s coastal areas and observe seabirds and other marine life – perhaps through guided walks or boat trips focusing on nature and conservation. This could be a fantastic way to educate children about the environment in a fun and engaging way.
Ultimately, the best approach is to consider your family's interests and choose tours that align with them. A shorter, more flexible walking tour might be perfect for younger children, while older kids would likely enjoy a longer excursion that delves deeper into Plymouth’s history or offers opportunities for outdoor adventure. The range of prices – from £8 to £395 – means you can find an option that fits your budget perfectly.
Planning a family day out in Plymouth is straightforward. Start by selecting the tours that most appeal to your children, considering their ages and interests. Allow plenty of time for breaks – there are numerous cafes and restaurants around the Barbican area offering refreshments and light meals. Pack snacks and water to keep everyone happy throughout the day. Don't forget comfortable shoes! With a little planning, you can create a memorable family adventure in this historic coastal city.
To help you further, we recommend researching specific walking routes online before your visit, identifying key landmarks and potential attractions that might capture your children’s attention. Consider bringing along some interactive activities – perhaps a map to colour in or a notebook for them to record their observations. And most importantly, remember to relax, have fun, and create lasting memories with your family!