Get out, feel good and enjoy Plymouth’s green spaces

Spring is one of the best times to explore Plymouth on foot. Our city is lucky to have an amazing mix of green parks, rivers, coastlines and wildlife-rich spaces, all within easy reach of where people live and work. From city centre trails to peaceful parks and coastal paths, there are plenty of ways to slow down, get some fresh air and reconnect with nature.

Walking is also one of the simplest low-carbon ways to get around Plymouth. Choosing to walk more often is good for your health, your wallet and the planet, and it helps us all move towards a greener, healthier city.

Why nature feels good

Spending time outdoors is known to boost both physical and mental wellbeing. A gentle walk can help improve mood, reduce stress, boost energy levels and support a healthier heart. Being around trees, water and wildlife can also help us feel calmer and more connected to the world around us.

You don’t need any fancy equipment or lots of free time. Even a short walk in a local park or along the waterfront can make a real difference to how you feel.

Check out our favourite trails to explore around the city.

1. City Centre Wildlife Trail

A great way to see Plymouth’s hidden urban nature right in the heart of the city.

• Accessibility: Mostly flat and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, with some road crossings
• Time: Around one to two hours at a gentle pace
• Sights to see: Historic streets, public art and tucked away green spaces
• Wildlife to look out for: Urban birds, pollinators and blossoming plants
• What to wear: Comfortable shoes and a light jacket
• Good to know: The trail is self guided, so you can dip in and out as you like

This walk is perfect if you want to combine a bit of culture, history and nature without leaving the city centre. You can follow the Visit Plymouth Wildlife Trail or explore at your own pace.

2. Central Park

One of Plymouth’s largest and most loved parks, especially beautiful in spring.

• Accessibility: Wide, well-maintained paths with step‑free routes. Plenty of benches and areas to stop and rest
• Time: Thirty minutes to two hours, depending on your route
• Sights to see: Open parkland, spring flowers and views across the city
• Wildlife to look out for: Birds, squirrels and flowering trees
• What to wear: Trainers or walking shoes, layers for changeable weather
• Good to know: Benches and cafés nearby make this a good social walk

Central Park is ideal for a relaxed stroll, a brisk loop to get the heart pumping, or a walk with friends and family. Join us for the Big Green Trail on Saturday 20 June to explore the park and collect stamps along the way!

3. Saltram and the River Plym

A peaceful riverside walk with a real sense of calm, set in the gorgeous historic Saltram House setting.

• Accessibility: Mostly level paths, some gravel sections
• Time: One to three hours, depending on how far you go
• Sights to see: Woodland, open fields and river views
• Wildlife to look out for: Wading birds, ducks and spring wildflowers
• What to wear: Walking shoes and something waterproof
• Good to know: You can arrive by bus (The 21, 21A, 59 and 200 from Royal Parade will drop you to the outer edge of the Saltram Estate), bike or on foot from the city centre

This route is perfect if you’re looking for a quieter walk that feels a bit removed from busy city life.

4. Barbican and waterfront walk

A classic Plymouth walk with fresh sea air and plenty to see.

• Accessibility: Mostly flat with paved paths
• Time: Around one hour, longer if you stop along the way
• Sights to see: Historic harbour, Tudor streets, boats and coastal views
• Wildlife to look out for: Seabirds and marine life near the water
• What to wear: Comfortable shoes and a warm layer for the wind
• Good to know: Easy to combine with cafés, benches and bus routes

This is a great option if you want a gentle walk with lots of historical points of interest and places to pause and enjoy the view.

5. Local parks near you

Small, local parks can be just as valuable as bigger green spaces.

• Accessibility: Varies, but many parks have step‑free paths
• Time: As long or as short as you like
• Sights to see: Trees, play areas and community green spaces
• Wildlife to look out for: Birds, insects and seasonal plants
• What to wear: Whatever you’re comfortable in
• Good to know: Perfect for fitting a walk into a busy day

Plymouth City Council has information on walking routes and parks across the city, making it easy to find a green space close to home.

Top tips

If you’d like more ideas on where to explore around the city, these resources are a great place to start:

• The Plymouth Trails App offers guided routes and inspiration for exploring on foot.
• Visit Plymouth’s walking and trail resources highlight routes for all abilities and interests.
• Find out the best places to see blossom blooms in the city in our Inspiration article.

Step outside this spring

You really don’t have to go far to enjoy the benefits of nature. Whether it’s a short walk on your lunch break or a longer weekend wander, getting outside is a simple way to feel better and connect with Plymouth’s amazing natural spaces.

This spring, why not choose walking where you can, discover a new route and enjoy everything our city has to offer?