Get ready to shout “Ahoy fair ocean city!” as Plymouth prepares to welcome back its much-loved Pirates Weekend on Saturday, May 17th and Sunday, May 18th. The historic Barbican, Sutton Harbour, Royal William Yard, and the waterfront will transform into a treasure trove of pirate-themed fun and entertainment for the whole family, and best of all, most activities are free.
Brought to you by the businesses of the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, this year’s event promises a jam-packed schedule of swashbuckling excitement with a bounty of attractions and activities across the various waterfront locations including:
• Sea Shanty Bands: Sing and dance to the rhythmic tunes of sea shanties resonating through the air. These traditional folk songs, passed down through generations, tell tales of adventure, camaraderie, and life at sea. Join in the chorus, feel the unity in music, and let the timeless melodies transport you to a bygone era of seafaring legends. Keep entertained after dark with local pubs keeping the Shanties going into the early evening.
• Jeremiah’s Journey Pirate Fun Run (Sunday, May 18th): Following its debut last year, the Pirate Fun Run returns. Don your best pirate attire and take part in this fun event around the waterfront in support of the wonderful local bereavement charity, Jeremiah’s Journey. Choose from either a 5km or 2.5km walk, jog or run and keep fit too! – sign up at https://race-nation.co.uk/register/plymouth-waterfront-partnership/jeremiahs-journey-pirate-fun-run
• Pirates Weekend Trail in partnership with Hay’s Travel: Embark on a treasure hunt across the Barbican and waterfront but watch out for other pirates trying to sneak a peek at your answers, any cheats will be forced to walk the plank. Pick up your free trail map included in the entertainment leaflet from the Tourist Information Centre over the weekend. Complete the trail and return your answers to the Tourist Information Centre to claim your prize.
• The Parade (Barbican): Expect a lively atmosphere with roaming pirates and street performers bringing the spirit of the Golden Age of Piracy to life.
• Quay Square and Sutton Harbour: Don’t miss the pirates puppet show along with storytelling and songs in the heart of the historic harbour. Canon firing and musketry abound so please be aware of loud unexpected noises.
• Southside Street: Wander through Southside Street and keep an eye out for Captain Jack – the loveable rogue is likely up to mischief but his heart is in the right place!
• Commercial Wharf: Expect a pawesome time on Sunday 18th (2pm) when the Pirate themed Gables Dog Show gets underway – sign up on the day at the Gables Gazebo!
• West Hoe Park: Enjoy the Pirate Pandemonium Family Show at 11am, 1pm and 3pm each day – get ready to set sail for adventure on board the Scurvy Shark Pirate ship!
• Royal William Yard: As the Royal William Yard celebrates its 200th anniversary, prepare for a treasure trove of free family fun with a historic twist. Hunt for hidden treasure across the Yard, transform into a fearsome pirate or magnificent mermaid with face painting, and master circus skills like a nimble deck hand. Celebrate the Yard’s heritage and feast like a salty sailor by making your very own ship’s biscuit to take home!
Explore a variety of exhibitors along the waterfront and discover a treasure trove of unique goods, from handcrafted pirate-themed trinkets to gifts fit for a buccaneer, plus, learn more about Plymouth’s part in maritime history and conservation.
To make your pirate adventure even easier, a free ‘Aargh and Ride’ specially branded shuttle bus will be operating on a continuous loop, picking up and dropping off at existing route number 25 stops, connecting all the key locations across the waterfront. Check the timetables at the bus stops for more information. Thank you to Plymouth CityBus for providing the ‘Aargh and Ride’.
Plymouth Pirates Weekend promises a fantastic weekend of family-friendly fun. So, dust off your eye patches, grab your swords, and prepare for a swashbuckling good time in Britain’s Ocean City!
For access information, directions, and an event map to help you navigate the weekend, please visit https://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/major-events/plymouth-pirates-weekend.
