From scenic views over the harbour to underground bars, Plymouth has it all. We pick 9 of the best bars and pubs to try.
Remember to practice social distancing on your visit and book ahead wherever possible to avoid disappointment.
Situated on The Barbican is The Fisherman’s Arms, the perfect place to perch, eat a delicious Sunday lunch and enjoy a pint in one of Plymouth’s oldest pubs.
This country pub has its own dog, Mr Jones - they even brewed a beer and named it after him! After a few pints with friends we recommend a stroll down to the harbour to gaze out over the sea.
2) Le Vignoble
Plymouth’s independent wine lounge, Le Vignoble, is the place to be. With over 250 different wines, champagnes and liqueurs from all over the world and in an enviable position at the beautiful, historical Royal William Yard, it’s easy to see why it’s so well thought of.
Gather friends and head to the wine lounge for a giggle and a tipple or two at the monthly wine tasting events. If you like a particular wine, why not buy it to take home with you to enjoy some well-earned “me time”? While you are visiting, don’t forget to say hello to the bar’s dog Bolli.
3) 1620
Head to 1620, the relaxed pub and eatery in Plymouth known for drinks for all occasions and its quintessentially British menu!
The pub is full of history, first opening its doors as The Yarmouth Inn all the way back in 1870. So why is it called 1620? Because that is the year that the first Pilgrims walked past and down the nearby Mayflower Steps in order to board the boat that would take them to America.
A microbrewery located in the Mutley area with over 150 years of history, head to The Hyde Park to try one of the classic or retro ales available such as a Red Barrel or a Double Diamond?
Mutley even has its own ale named ‘Made in Mutley’ which is brewed in the cellar of The Hyde Park. If an ale isn’t your thing then the large list of wines has been carefully created to complement their excellent menu.
5) Seco Lounge
While away the time with a glass of Prosecco in hand at the Seco Lounge, a quirky venue home to stone walls, colossal steel columns and scenic sea views that opened in the Royal William Yard back in 2010.
Have a special occasion coming up? The Wardroom is a private room with its own bar for you and your loved ones to enjoy a cosy night out with a few cocktails.
The Blues Bar and Grill is a harbour side bar and restaurant located in the heart of The Barbican. On beautiful summer evenings enjoy the sunset over the coast outside with a pint of Guinness or a glass of Buffalo Ridge Zinfandel Rosé.
The family-run bar is no stranger to entertainment as it welcomes live music regularly from local and international talent.
Only opened in 2014, Tigermilk at The Duke is a relatively recent addition to the Plymouth drinking scene.
Known for its selection of fine spirits, attentive service and great entertainment, the 1920’s inspired bar has all the excitement needed for a night out. Don’t expect it to be easily found, however, as Tigermilk is tucked away underground in the city.
8) Minerva Inn
Located on The Barbican is the Minerva Inn, one of Plymouth’s oldest serving public houses.
Back in the 17th century Minerva Inn was home to the Press Gang - a mob forcing unsuspecting sailors into naval service - but now is a bustling pub with friendly quiz nights on Mondays and regular live music all to be enjoyed alongside a pint from one of Devon’s many independent breweries.
Located in the heart of the Barbican, the Crown and Anchor is well known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional Sunday lunch.
With such an abundance of seafood produce coming from just metres away, you’d also be well served trying the crab sandwich or the monkfish curry. As you explore this histroic part of the port city, you won’t be able to miss the Crown either - it’s the pub with the distinctive blue and white frontage.
This article was updated by Martha Griffiths in May 2021.
