Plymouth Day Trips: Top 5 Unforgettable Escapes

Plymouth, that historic port city in Devon, it’s almost a fantastic base for checking out the southwest of England. So, whether you are a history buff, that you’re after seaside views, that or even country rambles, Plymouth actually puts you right near loads of exciting places which are perfect, you know, for day trips. So, get ready to discover some spots that will really give you that break you are craving!

1. Dartmoor National Park: Wild Beauty and Ancient Wonders

Dartmoor National Park, that’s very much a must-see! You are talking about moody moorlands, you are talking about granite tors, and so, too, little villages that just kind of sit still in time. That it really offers a whole other planet to see and do. It’s just a quick drive from Plymouth and, well, frankly, gives you an insane escape from city noise.

You might want to get your walking shoes on, because there are miles and miles of footpaths out there just screaming to get explored. That you could bag yourself a proper hike up to Haytor, you know, that iconic rock formation. Is that or you can poke around the ancient clapper bridge at Postbridge. History lovers, alright, you are in for a treat! You have got Castle Drogo, which, you know, is one of the last castles that got built in England, a very short distance away, too.

And so, the Dartmoor ponies, alright, they’re not to miss either! Those wild, free roaming ponies that you might see, it is what makes Dartmoor so Dartmoor! So keep an eye out. If it’s possible, bring that camera!

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Dartmoor National Park) Read our full review: Dartmoor National Park Full Review and Details

2. Looe, Cornwall: Coastal Charm and Fishing Heritage

Just a little further along the coast and you will find yourself in Looe, which it’s like a real-life postcard town down in Cornwall. So, you have got the quaint harbor, really narrow streets and a beach, where, naturally, it invites you to relax. Is that it offers such a wonderful mix for a day trip.

Get a wander about East Looe and West Looe. That they both face each other on either side of the river, each packing it’s very own unique appeal. So, East Looe is just really that busy, because of all the shops and restaurants, that and the sandy beach, which is what makes it really fit the whole family. Then West Looe is a bit chiller, too, with views across the water, you know, for really good photos!

Get a boat trip booked, maybe? That You could find your own boat, you know, to go fishing or maybe you could even go spot some seals in their natural habitat. Now, for your food, that you will have to go for fresh seafood at the harbour! You know, you are right by the sea after all. And it really makes the whole experience.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Looe Cornwall) Read our full review: Looe Cornwall Full Review and Details

3. Polperro: A Step Back in Time

Not far from Looe, Polperro very much equals the sweetness. That it might be even prettier, you know, for your snapshots! So this tiny little village, where it’s tucked away in a steep-sided valley. It is just something to remember!

No cars actually get allowed into Polperro itself. But then you just stroll through its lanes, where they wiggle downwards to a harbor. That feels sort of shut off from it all! Very cute buildings that have these colourful touches to them, and the whole village has been hardly altered through years and years. That and that just gives you such a feel about what Cornwall might have been like many years ago!

Pop into the Polperro Heritage Museum of Smuggling & Fishing to give yourself an insight to it all. Smuggling was almost rife around here! If it’s a sunny day, alright, why not walk the coastal path? The one where it goes around Polperro and it is just packed out with those unreal views and the wildlife that you will struggle to witness any other place.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Polperro Cornwall) Read our full review: Polperro Full Review and Details

4. Salcombe: South Hams Gem

Get yourself further along the South Devon coast! And you have got Salcombe! That it’s popular with boat enthusiasts! But anyone who just likes it when everything is, well, rather attractive. Might be into Salcombe, also. Very attractive, almost. It all shines out through here. That and it’s known for it is amazing sailing, stunning beaches. So the scenery is really something that is going to relax you!

South Sands that could be a place, where, possibly, you may want to lay down that towel. Get into North Sands if you want to then build those sandcastles with the youngsters, so, too. Get in there during low tide. You can then go walk to it at low tide right from Salcombe. Alright, there’s loads going on along the water itself. Why not rent out your kayak for a bit? The views out at sea really show something!

There’s a really amazing building sat up that headland, you know! And that you may want to poke around it. And it is known as Overbeck’s. Inside of this, is actually where there are curious collections that you just won’t see too often, too. So the gardens that there are around it is a peaceful walk also, but so they have crazy views of the coastline. Don’t overlook what the shops in Salcombe can give you, though. Lots of lovely local businesses in and about.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Salcombe Devon) Read our full review: Salcombe Full Review and Details

5. Buckfast Abbey: History and Spirituality

For something slightly less coastal. If it is the case. You might actually give Buckfast Abbey, that near Buckfastleigh a chance. Is that it delivers calm surroundings, very historic architecture. Because what you get to witness as you see it is extremely magnificent.

The Abbey, this very still functions these days these times being a monastery. A really working one. So you get the real sense it still matters and that it remains true. You could walk right through, check out those impressive stained glass. See every single detail within every corner or crevice inside! Or why don’t you stroll in those tranquil gardens. In a way they mirror what life and the message is to offer! It’s really peaceful inside these spots that sit in there.

And you may want to get into a cafe here in order to relax and ponder just for a moment! It is also popular the place for people who need a place just to be. When it gives calm through those gates. Then also close, too, with South Devon Railway also and Totnes which they are well worthy stops for your day trip!

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Buckfast Abbey Devon) Read our full review: Buckfast Abbey Full Review and Details