Thinking of studying in Plymouth? Our student city guide has the best things for you to do when you get there...
Updated: 09 Mar 2025
There's a wide variety of things to do in Plymouth which are easily accessible for both University of Plymouth and Plymouth Marjon students. With student life being so busy at times it’s great that this city offers so many top spots to relax and take a breather. We've taken a look at the top 10 student things to do in Plymouth for you.
Good for: Finding a new outfit or picking up a tasty treat.
What it is: This shopping centre has so much to offer with more than 70 big brands to shop at including the likes of Primark and Topshop as well as tasty treats from Hotel Chocolat and Krispy Kreme. With a range of places to eat and free Wi-Fi it has everything in one place.
Why you should go: It can be the perfect day out depending on whether you want a day out with friends or if you are wanting to treat yourself once that student loan drops!
Good for: Learning more about the world's sea life.
What it is: The largest aquarium in the UK and home to over 4,000 ocean animals, it is easily accessible by public transport.
Why you should go: Not all university cities have an aquarium on their doorstep and if this is your sort of thing then it would be a great day out with your course friends or housemates. The tickets offer a year's free entry, and you can get a bargain price with the student local ticket if you've got a PL postcode.
Good for: Sightseeing, eating and drinking.
What it is: A site of history and heritage, Plymouth Barbican is home to a variety of places to eat, drink, food festivals and more.
Why you should go: From here you can visit many other popular tourist spots without breaking the bank and depending on whether you are there to admire the scenery or get involved with the busy nightlife it has something for everyone.
Good for: Getting your pasta fix.
What it is: A student’s dream right?! A whole restaurant dedicated to pasta and said to be one of Plymouth’s most loved restaurants.
Why you should go: If you want an excuse to dress up and go for a fancy meal that isn’t too expensive then this is the place. They have a lot of variety on their menus and offer really good deals too meaning you and your housemates can have a new favourite spot to visit.
Good for: Dancing the night away.
What it is: The largest nightclub in Plymouth, holding student nights and other events every week.
Why you should go: You can come let your hair down and dance the night away here at this nightclub and enjoy a range of music from R&B to classic party anthems. The perfect spot for any occasion, this spot has amazing deals and packages for it all.
Good for: A meal out and drinks with your friends.
What it is: A cocktail bar and restaurant.
Why you should go: With fresh food and cocktails made to order, it is the perfect spot to hang out with friends where it’s reasonably priced and has a friendly atmosphere. It has great comfort food on the menu for when a McDonalds just won’t do it and with frequent transport links around this city you can get there easily from either university.
Good for: Relaxing and sunbathing.
What it is: A beautiful beach in the Devon countryside.
Why you should go: You can take a walk all the way along this beach, giving you some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre. It is known for its rock pooling and has some picturesque views of cliffs in the distance. You may also get the chance to see a range of wildlife if you come to visit.
Good for: Sightseeing.
What it is: The best place to take in panoramic views of the coastline.
Why you should go: If you’re on the lookout for another spot where you can take some time for yourself, the Hoe is where you’ll want to be. From here you can visit one of the South-West’s well known landmarks Smeaton Tower and venture inside to get amazing views of the city from the lantern room. The iconic 17th Century fortress The Royal Citadel can also be seen from here. It’s a place where you can really immerse yourself into the history and culture of Plymouth.
9) Plymouth Pavilions Ice Rink
Good for: Getting your skates on and practising balancing.
What it is: Ice skating rink that’s open all year round.
Why you should go: It’s something a little bit different to do and at least you don’t have to wait until around Christmas time to literally get your skates on. Plus, it's only a 15 minute walk from Plymouth train station.
Good for: Watching a range of different stage shows.
What it is: A theatre offering a range of entertainment including musicals, royal ballet, drama and comedy.
Why you should go: As well as a great experience, the theatre offers really decent prices and some great food and drink in the café, bar and their restaurant The Apron which has dining available for all.
Home to both University of Plymouth and Plymouth Marjon University, there are so many spots for students to go to in Plymouth and with the city being a central spot in Cornwall too, some lovely beaches are only a short train ride away.
Whether you want to get away from the pressures of student life by the sea or hit the town one evening for some drinks, Plymouth has it all. No wonder the city gets great reviews from students at the city's universities...
See more reviews from students in Plymouth here.
NEXT:
- Book an open day at the University of Plymouth or Plymouth Marjon