At the end of a largely sun-soaked half term and following on from English Tourism Week, all signs point to this as the start of a summer of staycations, with locals holidaying at home and those from further afield flocking to the scenic South West. Royal William Yard saw a surge in visits last summer* and has already seen a 68% hike in web traffic this year,** suggesting a bumper summer lies ahead.

With even more to offer visitors this year, here’s what to expect at Royal William Yard this summer:

• Open for business: The Yard’s vibrant array of bars, cafes and restaurants are back, open now for indoor and outdoor visits, where you can enjoy al fresco drinks and dining on the lawn, by the marina, and overlooking the water. A big welcome to new arrival The Club House, and welcome back to a familiar favourite; Quiz Mondays from 7pm at Seco Lounge. Take a look at the dedicated Reopening page to see details and opening hours.
• Father’s Day: coming up on 20^th June, it’s time to treat the men in your life. There are a range of places to have a family lunch or drinks in the sun, including Bistrot Pierre which has a special Father’s Day 2 or 3 course set menu on offer. Le Vignoble has a wine, beer and tasty treat hamper available. And Steel Brew Co has a pack that includes beers, snacks, and a glass – with options to add branded clothing or a membership to the Steel Brew Crew.
• Art and culture: Ocean Studios has an exciting series of events and activities to capture the imagination this summer. Currently on display is PHASE SHIFTER, an immersive light installation by renowned by digital art collective, Squidsoup. Native Makers pop-up markets are back – taking place 26^th June and 17^th July – plus there are exhibitions aplenty planned, and a host of new groups and workshops available to join – including Mindful Art Club, portrait and printing sessions. Find out more here.
• Come and stay: The stunning Grade II listed boutique B&B, Rooms by Bistrot Pierre, is open once again and already welcoming guests. With views over the water, its own secret garden, and breakfast served just across the lawn at Bistrot Pierre, it is the perfect place for a summer staycation.
• Walker wonderland: The number of people walking for leisure is on the rise and increasingly appealing to younger audiences, says data from national trail charity, South West Coast Path. Royal William Yard is an integral and captivating part of this legendary walking route, with two South West Coast Path trails graded as ‘easy’, so perfect for a casual stroll or as a setting for more ambitious workouts.
• SailGB: Royal William Yard, with its prominent peninsula setting overlooking the water, is an ideal place to join in the celebrations around the world’s fastest sail racing. SailGP’s Great Britain Sail Grand Prix will return to UK shores 17-18^th July and the adrenaline-filled race between competing nations will take place on Plymouth Sound.

Hailey Cattle, Regional Marketing Manager for Urban Splash, said, “Last summer surpassed expectations and we have high hopes for what lies ahead. Royal William Yard has even more to do and discover this summer, with many businesses making a welcome return, new places and activities to explore, and a vibrant setting and community to be a part of. It is a joy to welcome visitors back and this is truly the perfect place for a safe staycation.”