Key Areas

City Centre:

• The Hoe: Famous for its iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse and beautiful waterfront views, The Hoe is perfect for relaxing walks, picnics, and outdoor activities.
• Drake Circus: The main shopping mall in Plymouth, offering a wide range of high street stores, eateries, and entertainment options.

The Barbican:

• Known for its historic charm and cobbled streets, the Barbican is home to numerous bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The National Marine Aquarium and the Mayflower Steps are must-visit landmarks.

North Hill:

• A lively student area close to both universities, North Hill offers affordable accommodation, a variety of cafes, pubs, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Mutley Plain:

• A bustling area with a mix of shops, eateries, and bars. It’s popular among students for its convenient location and affordable living options.

Royal William Yard:

• A historic waterfront complex offering upscale dining, boutique shops, and scenic views. Though more upscale, it’s a great place for a weekend visit or special outing.

Accommodation

University Halls:

• Plymouth University Halls: Francis Drake Hall, Radnor Hall, and Mary Newman Hall offer modern facilities and are conveniently located near the campus.
• Plymouth College of Art Halls: The campus doesn’t have its own halls, but students can find accommodation through university partnerships or private rentals nearby.

Private Rentals:

• Popular areas for private rentals include North Hill, Mutley Plain, and Greenbank. Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are useful for finding accommodation.

Amenities and Services

Shopping:

• Supermarkets: Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Aldi are all easily accessible from the main student areas. The city center also offers a range of high street shops and independent stores.
• Convenience Stores: Numerous small stores scattered throughout student areas for quick and easy access to essentials.

Healthcare:

• GP Surgeries: The University Medical Centre, Peverell Park Surgery, and North Road West Medical Centre provide comprehensive healthcare services.
• Pharmacies: Boots, Superdrug, and several independent pharmacies offer prescription services and health products.

Education:

• Libraries: Both Plymouth University and Plymouth College of Art have their own libraries providing extensive resources, study spaces, and support services. Additionally, the Central Library in the city center offers a quiet study environment and a vast collection of books and digital resources.

Dining and Social Scene

Cafes and Restaurants:

• Goodbody’s Cafe: Popular for its hearty breakfasts and brunches.
• The Caffeine Club: Open 24/7, perfect for late-night study sessions or meals.
• Cap’n Jaspers: A famous spot on the waterfront offering affordable and delicious food.
• The Hutong Cafe: A cozy spot for coffee and light bites, perfect for study breaks.
• Bistrot Pierre: Offers French cuisine with stunning waterfront views, ideal for a special meal.

Pubs and Bars:

• The Roundabout: A lively student pub with great deals on food and drinks.
• The Skiving Scholar: Cozy and student-friendly, ideal for a casual night out.
• The Union Rooms: Part of the Wetherspoon chain, offering affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere.
• The Penguin Lounge: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide selection of drinks.
• The Admiral MacBride: A historic pub with a friendly atmosphere and a great selection of drinks.

Nightlife:

• Revolution:: A popular nightclub with themed nights and student discounts.
• The Depo: Plymouths top live and dance music venue, perfect for a night out with friends.
• The Cider Press: Known for its variety of ciders and live entertainment.
• Annabel’s Cabaret and Discotheque: Offers a mix of music and entertainment, popular with students.

Recreation and Leisure

Parks and Green Spaces:

• Hoe Park: Offers stunning views of Plymouth Sound and is ideal for outdoor activities.
• Victoria Park: A smaller park providing a peaceful escape from the busy city streets.
• Drake’s Place Gardens and Reservoir: Located on North Hill, perfect for relaxing or studying outdoors.
• Mount Edgcumbe Country Park: Accessible by ferry, this expansive park offers beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.

Fitness:

• University Gym: Offers affordable memberships and a range of fitness classes tailored for students.
• Local Gyms: PureGym and The Gym Group provide flexible memberships and 24/7 access.
• Bespoke Fitness Studios: In areas like Royal William Yard, offering specialized classes such as yoga and pilates.

Cultural Attractions:

• The Box: Plymouth’s major museum and art gallery, offering fascinating exhibits on local history and culture.
• Theatre Royal: Hosts a range of performances, from plays and musicals to comedy shows.

Transportation

Public Transport:

• Buses: Frequent bus services connect student areas to the city center and universities. Routes like the 42 and 50 are particularly useful.
• Trains: Plymouth Railway Station offers direct services to major cities like Exeter, Bristol, and London.

Cycling and Walking:

• Plymouth is pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, with many routes and bike racks available throughout the city and campuses.
• Beryl Bike electric bike hire available throughout the city.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

• Taxis: Several local taxi services operate in Plymouth, providing a convenient option for getting around, especially late at night.
• Community and Lifestyle

Community Events:

• Local Festivals: Plymouth hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Plymouth Seafood Festival and Pirate Weekend, offering fun and engaging activities for students.
• Farmers Markets: Regular farmers markets in the city center and surrounding areas provide fresh, local produce and unique artisan goods.

Student Life:

• Both universities have vibrant student communities with numerous societies, clubs, and events that foster a sense of belonging and offer plenty of opportunities for socializing and networking.

Conclusion

Plymouth offers a rich and diverse environment for students of Plymouth University and Plymouth College of Art, combining historic charm with modern amenities. Whether it’s enjoying the scenic waterfront, exploring cultural attractions, or taking advantage of the vibrant social scene, students have a wealth of opportunities to make the most of their university experience in Plymouth.