Southside Street
Historic Southside Street in Plymouth's Barbican offers charming cobbled lanes, independent shops, and the iconic Plymouth Gin Distillery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Southside Street
Best Time
Lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Southside Street in Plymouth's Barbican offers charming cobbled lanes, independent shops, and the iconic Plymouth Gin Distillery.
"Idyllic pre-Christmas scenes along Southside Street in Plymouth's historic Barbican."
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Southside Street is best explored by walking to discover its charm and hidden spots. :athletic_shoe:
🍸 Gin Distillery Tour
Book your tour at the Plymouth Gin Distillery in advance, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Barbican's Cobbled Lanes
Southside Street, Plymouth
Wander through historic streets, soak in maritime vibes, and discover unique shops and eateries.

Plymouth Gin Distillery
Southside Street, Plymouth
A must-visit for gin lovers, offering tours and tastings in a historic setting.
Artistic Expressions
Southside Street, Plymouth
Discover vibrant street art and creative studios, adding a splash of color to the historic backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Timing is Key for Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Southside Street is best explored by walking to discover its charm and hidden spots. :athletic_shoe:
🍸 Gin Distillery Tour
Book your tour at the Plymouth Gin Distillery in advance, especially during peak season. :ticket:
🎨 Discover Local Art
Keep an eye out for vibrant street art and pop into local studios for unique finds. :iphone:
⚓️ Barbican History
Immerse yourself in the history of Plymouth's old harbour area. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Southside Street is best explored by walking to discover its charm and hidden spots. :athletic_shoe:
🍸 Gin Distillery Tour
Book your tour at the Plymouth Gin Distillery in advance, especially during peak season. :ticket:
🎨 Discover Local Art
Keep an eye out for vibrant street art and pop into local studios for unique finds. :iphone:
⚓️ Barbican History
Immerse yourself in the history of Plymouth's old harbour area. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Southside Street for its historic charm, picturesque setting, and vibrant atmosphere, especially within the Barbican area. The variety of independent shops, pubs, and the presence of the Plymouth Gin Distillery are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find parking challenging and can be disappointed by the 'cage' around Plymouth Rock if that's their primary destination, but the overall experience is highly positive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Southside Street is located in the historic Barbican area of Plymouth. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center, or you can use local bus services that stop nearby. Parking can be challenging, so public transport or walking is recommended.
Yes, Southside Street is a pleasant walk from Plymouth city center, leading you through historic parts of the city towards the Hoe.
Local buses frequently serve the Barbican area. If driving, be aware that parking is limited and can be expensive. Consider using a park and ride service if available.
Cycling is a great option, with dedicated cycle paths leading towards the waterfront. Secure bike parking might be available in the vicinity. :bike:
Southside Street is a main thoroughfare in the Barbican, leading from the city centre towards the Hoe. The Plymouth Gin Distillery is a prominent landmark on the street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Southside Street itself is a public area and does not require tickets to enter. However, specific attractions like the Plymouth Gin Distillery offer tours that require booking and payment.
As a public street, Southside Street is accessible 24/7. Individual shops, restaurants, and attractions will have their own operating hours.
Exploring the Barbican and Southside Street is free. Fees apply only to specific attractions or activities within the area, such as distillery tours or art workshops.
It's highly recommended to book your Plymouth Gin Distillery tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred time slot.
Yes, simply wandering the historic streets, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the atmosphere are free activities. You might also stumble upon street performers.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic charm of the cobbled streets, the picturesque waterfront views, and the vibrant street art. The area around the Plymouth Gin Distillery offers great photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The mix of historic buildings, bustling activity, and occasional street art makes Southside Street a fantastic location for street photography.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the historic ambiance. Weekends can be busy, so early mornings might be quieter for photography.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in urban areas. It's essential to check local bylaws and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone. :camerawithflash:
Photography is generally permitted in public areas of the distillery, but specific rules may apply during tours. It's best to ask staff for clarification.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Southside Street and the surrounding Barbican offer a variety of dining options, from traditional pubs serving classic British fare to seafood restaurants and international cuisine.
Yes, being a historic harbour area, you'll find excellent seafood restaurants offering fresh catches. Look for establishments along the waterfront for the best experience.
The Barbican is home to several historic pubs, many of which serve food and local ales. The role of pubs in the area is significant.
Most restaurants in the area are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff for specific dietary needs. :leafy_green:
Yes, you'll find a selection of cafes and eateries offering lighter meals, snacks, and coffee, perfect for a break while exploring.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍻 Pub & Bar Enthusiasts
🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Barbican and Southside Street
The atmosphere on Southside Street is particularly enchanting during festive periods, with decorations adding to its charm. It's a place where history meets contemporary life, offering visitors a glimpse into Plymouth's rich past while providing a lively present-day experience. The proximity to the waterfront and other key Plymouth attractions makes it a central point for any visit.
Art and Creativity on Southside Street
One notable spot is @clayart4655, a pottery painting studio where visitors can unleash their creativity by painting their own ceramics. It's a fun, interactive activity suitable for all ages, providing a unique souvenir of your visit. The studio offers guidance, making it accessible even for beginners. This blend of historical architecture and vibrant art installations makes Southside Street a visually stimulating destination.
Plymouth Gin Distillery: A Local Gem
Visitors can learn about the distillation process, explore the historic buildings, and, of course, enjoy a tasting session. The tours are highly regarded for their informative content and the quality of the gin. Booking in advance is strongly advised, as tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. It's an essential stop for anyone interested in spirits or local history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit