As Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth is a place defined by its deep connection to the sea, a gritty naval heritage, and a fiercely independent spirit. For couples looking for experiences that are active, competitive, and seriously fun, you will find an incredible range of date ideas in Plymouth.
The city is a playground of possibilities, from battling it out with axes and conquering climbing walls to sipping craft gin in a world-famous distillery and exploring the cobbled lanes of a historic harbourside. Whether you’re planning a first date or just want to shake up your routine, these 18 exciting date ideas in Plymouth are your perfect guide to an unforgettable time together.
18 Exciting Date Ideas In Plymouth
1. Unleash Your Competitive Side at Boom Battle Bar
For a guaranteed night of high-energy fun, look no further than Boom Battle Bar. This is the ultimate competitive gaming destination, where you can go head-to-head in everything from axe throwing and augmented reality darts to shuffleboard and ‘crazier’ golf. The lively atmosphere is fuelled by great music and creative cocktails, making it a perfect ice-breaker and one of the most action-packed date ideas in Plymouth.
2. Master the Art of Gin at the Plymouth Gin Distillery
For a more sophisticated yet equally enjoyable drinking date, take a tour of the historic Plymouth Gin Distillery. You’ll discover the secrets behind one of the world’s most famous gins in England’s oldest working distillery. The best part is the tutored tasting session at the end, followed by a complimentary G&T in the distillery’s stylish cocktail bar. It’s a classic Plymouth experience that’s both fascinating and delicious.
3. Go for a Paddle Adventure from Mount Batten
Embrace Plymouth’s “Ocean City” title with an active water-based date. Head to the Mount Batten Centre and hire a double kayak or stand-up paddleboards to explore the stunning Plymouth Sound. You’ll get incredible views of Drake’s Island, the Hoe, and the city’s naval history from a unique perspective. Afterwards, you can relax and grab a well-deserved drink at a nearby waterside pub.
4. Explore the Historic Pubs of The Barbican
A date on The Barbican is a quintessential Plymouth experience. Spend an afternoon or evening wandering the charming cobbled streets and dipping into some of the city’s oldest and most characterful pubs. From the famous Dolphin Hotel to the cosy Admiral MacBride, it’s the perfect setting for a relaxed and atmospheric pub crawl, discovering hidden gems along the way.
5. Hit a Strike at Paradise Island Adventure Golf
Inject some playful competition into your date with a round of indoor crazy golf. Paradise Island Adventure Golf, located in Drake Circus The Barcode, offers two elaborate 18-hole courses with exotic themes, mysterious caves, and challenging obstacles. It’s a brilliant, light-hearted activity that’s perfect for some laughs, whatever the weather is doing outside.
6. Discover the Vibe at Royal William Yard
For a slightly more upscale but undeniably cool date, spend some time at the stunning Royal William Yard. This beautifully restored Grade I listed naval yard is a destination in its own right. You can enjoy dinner at one of the fantastic restaurants, grab a drink at a waterfront wine bar, catch an indie film at the Everyman Cinema, or even try stand-up paddleboarding in the historic harbour.
7. Conquer the Wall at The Hangar Climbing Centre
Challenge yourselves and have a great time at The Hangar Climbing Centre. This world-class bouldering facility is perfect for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned pros. It’s a fantastic way to be active together, offering a fun physical and mental challenge in a friendly, social environment. It’s one of the most rewarding date ideas in Plymouth.
8. Take a Ferry Trip to a Cornish Village
Escape the city for a mini-adventure by hopping on the Cawsand Ferry from the Barbican. This short and scenic boat trip takes you across the Sound to the idyllic twin villages of Cawsand and Kingsand in Cornwall. Spend your date exploring the narrow streets, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying a pint in a traditional Cornish pub before catching the ferry back.
9. Immerse Yourselves in the National Marine Aquarium
While an aquarium might sound cliché, the National Marine Aquarium is genuinely impressive and makes for a fantastic, immersive date. Home to the UK’s largest tank, you can watch sharks and rays glide gracefully overhead. The calming, blue-lit atmosphere is surprisingly romantic and provides endless conversation starters.
10. Hit the Bullseye at TimberVault
If axe throwing at a games bar wasn’t enough, get the authentic experience at TimberVault. This dedicated urban axe-throwing venue is all about the thrill of sinking a hatchet into a wooden target. With expert instructors to guide you, it’s a safe, exhilarating, and incredibly satisfying activity that’s perfect for blowing off some steam.
11. Catch a Gig at The Junction or The Depo
For music-loving couples, a live gig is one of the best date ideas in Plymouth. Check out the listings at iconic venues like The Junction or the larger warehouse space at The Depo. Discovering a new favourite band or seeing an old one together in an intimate venue is a brilliant way to spend an evening.
12. Have a Laugh at a Comedy Night
Share a laugh and break the ice at a local comedy night. Venues like the Plymouth Comedy Club at the Barbican Theatre host regular events featuring a mix of up-and-coming talent and established acts from the UK comedy circuit. It’s a relaxed, entertaining, and foolproof way to ensure you both have a great time.
13. Take a Dip in the Tinside Lid
On a sunny day, there is no better place to be than the magnificent Tinside Lido. This stunning Art Deco saltwater pool juts out into the sea and offers a unique swimming experience with incredible views. It’s a fun, refreshing, and incredibly scenic date spot that feels like a trip back in time.
14. Climb Smeaton’s Tower for Epic Views
For a simple but breathtaking date, climb to the top of Smeaton’s Tower on the Hoe. The panoramic views from the lantern room at the top are simply unbeatable, offering a 360-degree perspective of the city, the Sound, and out towards Cornwall. It’s a cheap, cheerful, and incredibly romantic activity.
15. Solve the Clues at Escape Plymouth
Put your combined brainpower to the test at Escape Plymouth. Locked in a themed room, you’ll have just one hour to solve a series of intricate puzzles and find your way out. It’s a thrilling, fast-paced challenge that relies on communication and teamwork, making it a fantastic bonding experience.
16. Explore the Plymouth Market Street Food Scene
For a casual, delicious, and budget-friendly food date, dive into the West End’s Plymouth Market. The refurbished market is now a hub for incredible independent street food stalls, offering everything from authentic Thai and delicious pizza to freshly made pasta and Mauritian cuisine. You can both grab something different and find a seat in the communal dining area.
17. Go Bowling and Hit the Arcades
You can’t go wrong with a classic night of bowling. Head to Tenpin Plymouth at The Barcode for a few games, challenge each other to air hockey in the arcade, and enjoy a drink. It’s a timelessly fun and easy-going date that’s all about light-hearted competition.
18. Catch an Outdoor Film or Event
During the warmer months, keep an eye out for special events like open-air cinema screenings, which are often held at iconic locations like Tinside Lido or Royal William Yard. Watching a classic film under the stars is an incredibly romantic and memorable experience, offering a unique twist on the standard movie date.
Enjoy Your Date in Plymouth
From its historic harbourside to its modern entertainment complexes, there is a fantastic variety of date ideas in Plymouth perfect for any couple looking for fun and adventure. The city’s unique maritime character and vibrant social scene provide an amazing backdrop for creating lasting memories.
Whether you’re getting active on the water, battling it out in a games bar, or exploring the city’s independent food and drink scene, you’ll never be short of inspiration.