The open-top Plymouth Citybus number 25 ‘Ocean City Sights’ service operates seasonally, primarily during the summer months. In 2024, the service ran daily from Saturday 20th July until Sunday 1st September.
This popular hop-on, hop-off experience allows passengers to explore Plymouth’s waterfront, Barbican, and Hoe with panoramic views.
Very popular!
Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, invites you to immerse yourself in its rich maritime heritage and vibrant contemporary life, all easily accessible without a car. Begin your adventure on the iconic Plymouth Hoe, where you can stroll along the promenade, admire Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse, and perhaps even take a dip in the historic Tinside Lido during warmer months. The Hoe offers breathtaking views across Plymouth Sound, a designated National Marine Park.
A short walk away lies the charming Barbican, a labyrinth of cobbled streets housing independent shops, art galleries, and inviting eateries. Here, you’ll find the historic Mayflower Steps, marking the departure point of the Pilgrims. From the Barbican, consider a relaxing ferry ride to the majestic Royal William Yard, a stunning collection of Grade I listed naval buildings now home to award-winning restaurants and cultural spaces. This waterfront gem is perfect for an afternoon exploring or enjoying a meal with a view.
For a delightful day trip, hop on a ferry from the Barbican to Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park in Cornwall. This expansive estate offers beautiful gardens and coastal walks, feeling a world away from the city yet just a short boat ride across the water. Alternatively, for a taste of rugged natural beauty, regular bus services connect Plymouth to the fringes of Dartmoor National Park, offering fantastic opportunities for invigorating walks amidst ancient landscapes. Exploring Plymouth and its stunning surroundings by foot, bus, and ferry creates an unforgettable, relaxed British getaway.
Very popular!
Steeped in maritime history, Plymouth’s Barbican beckons with its enchanting cobbled streets and Elizabethan architecture. This vibrant district, easily explored without a car, invites you to wander through a tapestry of stories, from the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers at the iconic Mayflower Steps to the echoes of Sir Francis Drake’s adventures.
Lose yourself among independent boutiques, fascinating art galleries, and quaint cafes that line the waterfront. The Barbican is a haven for foodies, particularly renowned for its fresh seafood, with numerous restaurants offering the day’s catch. Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic Plymouth Gin Distillery, England’s oldest working gin distillery, or immerse yourself in marine life at the National Marine Aquarium.
Tucked away, you’ll find the tranquil Elizabethan Gardens, a peaceful oasis amidst the bustle. As you stroll, enjoy views across Sutton Harbour, or perhaps embark on a leisurely boat trip to truly appreciate Plymouth Sound. The Barbican offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, all within comfortable walking distance, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing, car-free day out.
For an invigorating escape on the South Devon coast, The Hoe in Plymouth offers a stunning vista and a wealth of history, all easily explored without a car. This expansive green space, perched high above Plymouth Sound, provides magnificent panoramic views of the sea, the breakwater, and beyond.
Stroll along the Hoe Promenade, taking in the refreshing sea air and admiring iconic landmarks such as Smeaton’s Tower, the striking red and white lighthouse, which you can climb for even more impressive views. Nearby, discover the historic Royal Citadel, a formidable 17th-century fortress, and pay homage to Sir Francis Drake, whose statue stands as a testament to his legendary game of bowls before setting sail to defeat the Spanish Armada.
On a warm day, the art deco Tinside Lido, a beautiful seawater pool open during summer months, is perfect for a refreshing dip. The Hoe is wonderfully accessible for those travelling by rail; it’s about a mile from Plymouth Railway Station, making for a pleasant walk through the city to reach these stunning clifftop grounds. From here, it’s also a gentle wander down to the charming Barbican area, with its historic cobbled streets, independent shops, and welcoming eateries. Embrace the freedom of exploring at your own pace, enjoying the cafes and ice cream vans dotted around, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic maritime city.
Very popular!
Perched majestically above Plymouth Sound, Plymouth Hoe offers an invigorating escape with panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. This iconic green expanse is a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll, where the fresh sea air and stunning scenery revitalise the spirit. As you wander, you’ll encounter the famous red-and-white striped Smeaton’s Tower, a former lighthouse offering magnificent views across the harbour if you choose to climb it.
Immerse yourself in history as you pass the statue of Sir Francis Drake, where legend has it he finished a game of bowls before heading off to defeat the Spanish Armada. On warmer days, the beautiful Art Deco Tinside Lido, a saltwater outdoor swimming pool, invites you for a refreshing dip, perfectly accessible for those travelling by foot.
The Hoe is an ideal destination for those exploring without a car, with its expansive lawns perfect for picnics and contemplation. From here, it’s an easy walk to the historic Barbican district, a charming area brimming with cobbled streets, independent shops, inviting eateries, and fascinating attractions like the National Marine Aquarium and the Mayflower Steps. Every corner of Plymouth Hoe promises a memorable coastal experience, all effortlessly reached and enjoyed at your own pace.
Very popular!
Nestled along Plymouth’s vibrant coastline, West Hoe offers a refreshing escape for those travelling without a car. It’s a delightful district where the refreshing sea air and stunning vistas are always within easy reach.
A highlight is West Hoe Park, a welcoming green space perfect for families. Here, children can enjoy a large play area, miniature railway, crazy golf, and trampolines, all while you soak in the views of Plymouth Sound. Just across the road, a pebble beach invites you for a pleasant stroll or a spot of crab hunting.
From West Hoe, a leisurely walk along the promenade leads you to the iconic Plymouth Hoe. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views over Plymouth Sound, a designated National Marine Park. Don’t miss the chance to climb Smeaton’s Tower, the distinctive red and white lighthouse, for an even grander perspective. On a warm day, the stunning art deco Tinside Lido, with its saltwater swimming pool, offers a unique spot to cool off and enjoy the waterfront.
Exploring West Hoe and its surrounding attractions on foot or by local bus is wonderfully convenient. The City Bus route number 25 connects West Hoe Park directly with the city centre, making it simple to discover the charm of this coastal gem at your own pace.
Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, invites you to immerse yourself in its rich maritime heritage and vibrant contemporary life, all easily accessible without a car. Begin your adventure on the iconic Plymouth Hoe, where you can stroll along the promenade, admire Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse, and perhaps even take a dip in the historic Tinside Lido during warmer months. The Hoe offers breathtaking views across Plymouth Sound, a designated National Marine Park.
A short walk away lies the charming Barbican, a labyrinth of cobbled streets housing independent shops, art galleries, and inviting eateries. Here, you’ll find the historic Mayflower Steps, marking the departure point of the Pilgrims. From the Barbican, consider a relaxing ferry ride to the majestic Royal William Yard, a stunning collection of Grade I listed naval buildings now home to award-winning restaurants and cultural spaces. This waterfront gem is perfect for an afternoon exploring or enjoying a meal with a view.
For a delightful day trip, hop on a ferry from the Barbican to Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park in Cornwall. This expansive estate offers beautiful gardens and coastal walks, feeling a world away from the city yet just a short boat ride across the water. Alternatively, for a taste of rugged natural beauty, regular bus services connect Plymouth to the fringes of Dartmoor National Park, offering fantastic opportunities for invigorating walks amidst ancient landscapes. Exploring Plymouth and its stunning surroundings by foot, bus, and ferry creates an unforgettable, relaxed British getaway.
This listing was last updated on 4th January 2026
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