A huge amount is planned this Christmas at Royal William Yard, providing plenty of opportunity for festive feasting, shopping and socialising, mooching around makers markets and more. With a Christmas tree on the lawn, lights illuminating its grand historic buildings and twinkling across the water, the popular Plymouth destination is set to transform into a real winter wonderland.

Head to the Festive Good Food & Craft Market on Wednesday evenings for shopping under the stars and Sunday daytimes for a leisurely weekend wander – there are six markets planned from 3^rd – 20^th December. Over 60 stalls will showcase the South West’s best artisans, makers and producers. Taking place inside the Grade I Melville building and outside in its courtyard, there will be gifts galore, tasty treats (including much mulled wine) and entertainment.

Get into the Christmas spirit at a range of hands-on workshops – crafting cards, gift tags, wreaths and jewellery – or by watching the Nutcracker on the big screen at luxury cinema, Everyman. Shop for unique presents from inspiring independents, including handmade chocolates from Domea Favour; clothes, accessories and homewares at boutique, Identity Fashion; sumptuous haircare sets from YOKE the Salon; candles, skincare and gift vouchers from Enhance Aesthetics & Wellness; and a range of hampers from wine merchant, Le Vignoble.

Festive menus will be on offer at many of the Yard’s eateries, catering for any occasion from a cosy dinner with friends to a lively Christmas knees-up. And if for those looking to lighten the load on the big day and celebrate in style, Bistrot Pierre is taking bookings for Christmas Day, with a four-course gastronomic delight.

Serving up an array of mouthwatering meals, The Hook & Line’s three-course festive feast features local seafood and divine desserts including a Devon Spiced Rum & Plum Crumble. Hub has sharing starters, Christmas burgers, and delicious drinks like Chilled Mulled Sangria. Bistrot Pierre has a traditional French cuisine inspired Christmas party menu and accompanying drinks package. And Pho’s exciting Christmas party menu features both prawn crackers and Christmas crackers!

Sunday 5^th November, 10am-3pm

Sunday 3^rd, 10^th and 17^th December, 10am-3pm

Wednesday 6^th, 13^th and 20^th December, 5-9pm

Location: Melville building and courtyard

A huge array of stalls offering festive wares and unique gifts. With Christmas lights, a choir and children’s crafts adding to the atmosphere – this is the place to visit to get into the Christmas spirit. The Hook & Line will also be there with its fresh fish market – and if you wish, you can take your catch to the restaurant to be prepared.

* Barbershop Choir will be at the evening market on 13^th December

* Children’s crafts running on Wednesdays

Native Makers Festive markets

Saturday 25^th – Sunday 26^th November

Saturday 9^th – Sunday 10^th December

Location: Ocean Studios, Factory Cooperage

Run by Real Ideas, these makers markets will be full of festive wares to inspire and explore. The markets include space for over 40 artists and makers across four areas.

Print Your Own Christmas Card

Date/time: Saturday 25^th November, 10am-4pm

Location: Ocean Studios, Factory Cooperage

Tickets: £64.76, book here

A fun and creative day where you'll have the chance to design and print up to 25 unique Christmas cards using the linocut process.

Stamp Your Own Christmas Labels

Date/time: Saturday 9^th December, 10am-4pm

Location: Ocean Studios, Factory Cooperage

Tickets: £5.94, book here

An exciting drop-in activity where you can create your own unique Christmas labels. Learn a new skill and create custom Christmas labels that will leave a lasting impression on your loved ones.

Royal Opera House Live: Nutcracker

Date/Time: Tuesday 12^th December, 7pm

Location: Everyman, Melville building

Tickets: book here

Peter Wright's much-loved production for The Royal Ballet keeps true to the spirit of this festive ballet classic, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular dancing. Join Clara at a Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone else is tucked up in bed, accompanied by the brilliance of Tchaikovsky's score.

Grand Christmas Wine Tasting

Thursday 23^rd November

Session 1: 6pm - 8pm. Session 2: 8.30pm - 10.30pm

Location: Le Vignoble, New Cooperage

Tickets: £15 per person, book here

The wine experts will highlight a selection of wines perfect for the upcoming festive season. A shopping event with over 100 wines to sample so you can fill up your wine rack for Christmas.

Jewellery Workshop with Shh by Sadie

Date/time: Wednesday 29^th November , 7pm – 9pm

Location: Hub, Melville building

Tickets: £35 per person, book here

Make your own beaded necklace to take home, hosted by Plymouth-based jewellery designer. Ticket price includes all materials required to create a necklace, including step-by-step guidance and a welcome drink.

Christmas Wreath Workshop

Date/time: Friday 1^st December, arrive for 7pm, ends 10pm
Location: Hub, Melville building

Tickets: £50 per person, book here

Deck your door with boughs of holly this festive season by making your own Christmas. Use seasonal foliage and natural materials to make your own original wreath to take home. Hosted by award-winning florist Hannah Burnett, get cosy and in the Christmas spirit.