Going to University in Plymouth? Read your essential student guide here

The top student activities to do at Plymouth 

1) Visit the Plymouth Gin Distillery 

The Plymouth Gin distillery has been making its original recipe of Gin since 1793 making it the oldest working distillery in the country. The distillery hosts tours where you can partake in Gin tasting and you can even make your own bottle of Gin. The distillery is located less than a 15 minute walk from Plymouth Train Station.

Location: Plymouth Gin Distillery, 60 Southside St, Plymouth PL1 2LQ

2) Relax in Hoe Park

The perfect place to make the most of those sunny summer days or even just to go for a walk to relax and unwind. We recommend going to climb the 93 steps of Smeaton’s tower and taking in the views of your new University city.

Location: 4 Osborne Pl, Plymouth PL1 2PU

3) Go Kayaking or Canoeing

Located on the South coast and by the natural waterways that include the river Tamar, river Plym, Lynher River, Kingsmill Lake, Tamerton Lake & St. Johns Lake, Plymouth offers a plethora of water based activities and excursions. We highly recommend getting outdoors and discovering the local scenery and nature by Kayak. beyonk.com offers different organised excursions which are suitable for people of all abilities.

4) Take a day trip to Burrator Reservoir

This beautiful location is well worth the journey, especially if you’re looking to make the most of Devon’s incredible scenery. 

Location: Burrator Reservoir, Yelverton 

5) Visit the National Marine Aquarium 

Plymouth’s national marine aquarium is the largest aquarium in the UK and run by the Ocean conservation trust. The aquarium displays a huge variety of marine life and exhibitions and serves to educate us on the beauty and the importance of the marine world. Remember to take your student card and the aquarium offers student discounts.

Location: Rope Walk, Coxside, Plymouth PL4 0LF

Best ways to make friends at University in Plymouth

1) Join your University Freshers groups!

An active community of fresher students can be found prior to arriving at Plymouth through the online student chat groups which can be found listed on our website. Discussions range from university courses and student societies to welcome week queries and Plymouth freshers nightlife plans.