A Students Guide to Living and Thriving in Plymouth: From Food and Housing to Transport and Weekend Fun
Nestled on the stunning southwest coast of England, Plymouth is not just a historical maritime city but a dynamic and student-friendly place that offers an ideal blend of academic resources and lifestyle perks. Whether you're just starting university or already well into your studies, this guide on eating, finding your place, getting around, and more will help you make the most of city life and enjoy every moment in Plymouth.
Eat: Affordable and Diverse Dining
Plymouth's food scene might not be as large as London's, but it's packed with variety and perfect for student budgets. Head to the city centre or Union Street for an array of cafés and global cuisines. Try The Stable for pizza and southwest flavours, AtKitchen for Vietnamese street food, or Zuzimo! for Mediterranean fusion. If you're craving Asian food, Hakka, Wagamama, and the student-favourite Fortune Court are all solid choices. For budget-conscious days, supermarkets like Sainsbury’s Local, Lidl, and Aldi offer great ready-to-eat options at low prices.
Drink: Café Study Spots and Relaxing Bars
Need a break from lectures? For coffee and quiet study, check out Prime Café, Jacka Bakery (the city’s oldest bakery), or Kaya Gallery Café—some with great views of the waterfront. In the evenings, unwind at The SU Bar on campus for affordable drinks. Off-campus favourites like The Brass Monkey and Switch offer themed nights and a buzzing student crowd.
Explore: Nature Meets Heritage
Plymouth is perfect for explorers. Hoe Park is the city’s iconic clifftop space overlooking the harbour and historic Royal Citadel. It’s a great spot for picnics, sea views, or catching summer outdoor events. Culture lovers will enjoy The Box, a museum, gallery, and archive centre with free admission—a great place to expand your mind beyond the classroom. If you love nature, plan a weekend trip to Dartmoor National Park for hiking, or try kayaking and sailing at Mount Batten.
Live: Comfortable and Convenient Student Housing
Student accommodation in Plymouth is modern and well-located. Residences like Frobisher House, Discovery Heights, and Beckley Point are all close to campuses and offering easy access to the city centre, with en-suite rooms, study spaces, shared kitchens, and common lounges—some even have gyms and study rooms. If you’re on a tighter budget, areas like Alexandra Works and St. Thomas Court are popular for private rentals and flat shares, with easy access to supermarkets and local life.
Travel: Getting Around the City
Plymouth is a walkable city, especially between the university and the city centre. Local buses are run by Plymouth Citybus and Stagecoach, and student passes are available for discounted fares. Cycling is a great option too, with bike lanes and storage in many student accommodations. For weekend getaways, Plymouth Railway Station connects you to Exeter, Bristol, and even London—perfect for short trips.
