As the summer holidays get underway, Royal William Yard will be bringing families together every weekend in August with an incredible programme of completely FREE activities. From hands-on creative workshops to thrilling outdoor adventures, the waterfront destination has cracked the code for keeping the whole family entertained.

The action-packed schedule launches on the first weekend of August and is set to prove that the best things in life really are free:

• Saturday 2nd August, 11am-2pm: Make a Moon Monster! Drop-in Craft Activity on the Green. Kick off the summer programme with Above Bounds in this brilliant hands-on session. Ideal for little ones with big imaginations – just turn up any time between 11am-2pm and let creativity run wild.

• Sunday 3rd August, 10am-3pm: Good Food & Craft Market showcasing dozens of brilliant local stalls, plus the fascinating Geo Trail – a brilliant interactive journey around Royal William Yard developed with the University of Plymouth. Perfect for curious minds of all ages. Discover more here

• Saturday 9th August, 11am – 2pm: History Trail Launch celebrating Royal William Yard's incredible 200-year heritage. This free interactive trail will take you on a trip around the Yard and through archives, plans, pictures and stories that bring the past alive in a unique way.

• Sunday 10th August, 11am-2pm: Mini Golf on the Green. Portable Putts transforms the lawn into a brilliant putting paradise. Family rivalries welcome – may the best golfer win!

• Saturday 16th August, 11am-2pm: Mini Tennis on the Green. The award-winning team from High 5 brings Wimbledon vibes to the waterfront. Whether you're a complete beginner or future champion, expert coaches will help perfect your swing.

• Sunday 17th August, 10am-3pm: RNLI Open Day. Meet the heroic crew from Plymouth Lifeboat Station for an unforgettable day of maritime magic. Witness incredible sea rescue demonstrations, enjoy engaging activities, and celebrate those who save lives at sea.

• Saturday 23rd August, 11am-2pm: Circus Skills with Higher Beings on the Green. Master the art of tightrope walking, try stilt walking, and discover your inner circus performer in this absolutely unmissable workshop.

• Sunday 24th August, 11am-2pm: Zorbs, Soft Play and Giant Caterpillar Assault Course on the Green. The High 5 team returns with an adventure playground that'll have everyone bouncing with excitement, plus dedicated soft play for the tiniest adventurers.

• Saturday 30th August, 11am-2pm: Children's Craft Zone on the Green. The ultimate creative playground – completely free but book your spot here to guarantee materials for your masterpiece.

• Sunday 31st August, 11am-2pm: Soft Archery, Bouldering/Climbing and Bushcraft Skills on the Green. Join the High 5 team and Survival Steve for a range of family activities as part of the final event of our summer programme.

Beyond the weekend programme, Royal William Yard's resident businesses are laying on an impressive array of summer activities, making this historic waterfront the ultimate family destination for unforgettable local adventures.

• South West SUP is running its Summer Holiday SUP Club, offering young adventurers the chance to master paddleboarding whilst learning essential water safety. Five day courses run on 28^th July, 4^th, 11^th and 18^th August. There will also be a family paddle every Sunday in August from 10am-11.30am, and history paddles on 3^rd and 17^th August. Book here.

• Everyman Cinema, the Yard's luxury cinema serves up the ultimate family film experience – complete with a family ticket deal. Sink into sumptuous velvet sofas with milkshakes and popcorn whilst enjoying blockbusters and beloved family classics. There will be new releases including The Bad Guys 2, Elio, Superman, Jurassic World: Rebirth, How to Train Your Dragon, Peppa Meets the Baby, and family classics running through the holidays – book here.

• Enjoy a summer of sewing with Make Fabric Boutique in Ocean Studios. Take part in a family activity with the Sew Together – Parent & Child Sewing Workshop on 20^th -21^st August – book here. Join the Sustainable Sewing School: Summer Edition (for children age 8-18 years) on 27^th and 28^th August – book here.

• South West Coast Path meanders beautifully through Royal William Yard, providing the perfect starting point for scenic coastal rambles or a refreshing splash in the tidal pool. The Yard serves as an ideal base for local explorations, with Plymouth Boat Trips' ferry service whisking families to the vibrant Barbican, charming Saltash, or the magnificent Mount Edgcumbe Country Park across the water in Cornwall.

• The British Firework Championships promise absolutely spectacular viewing from Devil's Point, or for something truly special, join Plymouth Boat Trips' spectator vessel for front-row seats on the water on Wednesday 13^th and Thursday 14^th August – reserve your places here.

• Summer Swim Groups with ACE Swimming promise aquatic adventures for both adults and children. This is a mixed-ability group to suit all standards from dippers up to channel swimmers of all ages. The sessions take place from Firestone Bay from 10-10:30am on 26^th July, 16^th August, 6^th, and 13^th, 20^th September. Book places here.

• Plymouth Boat Trips' Fishing Expeditions set sail daily throughout the summer holidays – check the website for timetables and bookings. These 2.5-hour maritime adventures offer families the perfect introduction to sustainable sea fishing, complete with expert tuition, all equipment, and safety kit provided.

• The Yard's impressive dining and refreshment scene ensures families are brilliantly catered for throughout their visit. From tempting pasta and pizza to indulgent milkshakes and freshly baked treats, the diverse culinary offerings guarantee something to please every palate – with dedicated children's menus available across the destination. Summer deals include ‘Kids eat for £1’ at Bistrot Pierre, for Club Bistrot Pierre members.

Find out more and book tickets at www.royalwilliamyard.com/summer