A Summer for Everyone: Explore The Box Plymouth and more!

For Families: Easy, Fun Days Out

Summer is all about making memories together—and The Box is a great place to start. Step inside our air-conditioned spaces and discover interactive galleries, hands-on displays and plenty of space for curious minds to explore. We have fantastic facilities for families, a kids’ menu and ice creams too! Check our website for our family activities as we release details throughout summer. Many of our activities are free – donations welcome. The 'Little Lights' indoor exhibition will also be on display between 7 July and 13 September. These are 42 1m tall lighthouses designed and decorated by children and young people from schools, colleges and youth organisations in Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall. Families will love exploring these amongst our permanent collections!

Make it a full day out by heading up to Smeaton’s Tower (10am-5pm, Tue-Sun until 27 September, then reduced hours until 1 November 2026) on the Hoe. Kids will love the adventure of climbing the lighthouse, and the views from the top are well worth the effort! You can enjoy a discounted rate if you book in advance and we’ll be lowering our ticket prices in line with the Great British Summer Savings scheme.

We also recommend the Beryl Cook sculpture trail—a relaxed and playful way to explore the city. The larger-than-life figures are perfect for photo stops, and the trail naturally leads you through some of Plymouth’s most scenic spots.

For History Lovers: Step Into Plymouth’s Past

If you enjoy uncovering the stories behind a place, summer is the ideal time to immerse yourself in Plymouth’s rich heritage.

Start at The Box Plymouth, where collections span thousands of years—from local archaeology to global exploration—bringing Plymouth’s past vividly to life.

Then take a short walk to the Elizabethan House in the Barbican (open on Friday and Saturday afternoons until 26 September 2026). This beautifully restored 16th-century home offers a rare chance to experience what life was like in the Barbican. In each room you’ll find out more about the people who lived in the house, starting in 1599 during a time when Plymouth stood at the centre of seafaring history, up until to the slum era of 1926, when the house was saved from demolition.

And of course, no historical visit is complete without Smeaton’s Tower. Originally built on the Eddystone Rocks, the lighthouse is not only iconic, but a fascinating part of Britain’s maritime story—made even better by its coastal setting. On a clear day, stand on the balcony and you’ll be able to see the Eddystone Rocks, some 14 miles out at sea. Book your ticket in advance to enjoy a discount!

For Art Enthusiasts: Creativity Inside and Out

For those drawn to art and culture, The Box offers a rich and varied experience.

Spend time in our exhibitions and discover new perspectives in thoughtfully curated spaces. Our ‘Summer of Expression’ begins with ‘Echoes of Us’ on 20 June, with powerful works from the Government Art Collection. From 4 July, ‘Gillian Ayres: A Life in Colour’ opens. Ayres’ vibrant and expressive works are full of energy and connection to the South West landscape. See them in our cool galleries for the perfect summer experience. By booking your free ticket in advance, this guarantees entry during our busiest times!

Beyond the gallery walls, explore creativity out in the city through the Beryl Cook sculpture trail. Celebrating one of Plymouth’s most beloved artists, the trail captures her humour, warmth and unmistakable style—bringing everyday life to the streets in joyful ways.

To go deeper, join a Beryl Cook comedy tour on the last Saturday of every month, until September. These lively guided walks combine storytelling, performance and local insight—offering a fresh, entertaining way to connect with both the artist and the city that inspired her. The tour has been hugely popular, so make sure you book your spot.

Summer of Expression, your way!

Whether you’re keeping the kids entertained, revisiting Plymouth’s history or finding creative inspiration, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the summer.

Mix and match your day—climb, wander, explore and discover—and see where summer takes you.

Don’t forget to check out what else is on offer in Plymouth too! We recommend visiting the Visit Plymouth and What’s On Culture websites to help plan your summer day out.