Festive shopping at Royal William Yard

This Christmas, head to the historic surroundings of Royal William Yard for a unique festive shopping experience. 

A series of weekend and late-night festive markets will take place in the Yard's iconic Melville building throughout December, so you can shop, eat, drink and be merry. 

From tantalising treats to tasty tipples, the festive markets will offer a wide range of locally sourced goods and handcrafted gifts. A variety of traders will feature across the month, including food and drink from The Hedgerow Hound, Barbican Botanics, and The Devon Fudge Company; handcrafted gifts from Amelia Daniels Candles, Terra Jeweller, and Peck & Chisel; plus Nook Houseplants, Earthkind Refills, and a whole host of others.

Festive Late Night Shopping Market

• Wednesday 1 December, 5pm to 9pm
• Wednesday 8 December, 5pm to 9pm
• Wednesday 15 December, 5pm to 9pm

Festive Good Food & Craft Market

• Sunday 5 December, 10am to 3pm
• Sunday 12 December, 10am to 3pm
• Sunday 19 December, 10am to 3pm

Hailey Cattle, Regional Marketing Manager for Urban Splash, said, “We are delighted to welcome back the festive markets, which showcase an array of exciting and talented independent traders. With six events running through December, it’s more markets than ever before and will give everyone the opportunity to enjoy the experience. The festivities will be in full flow around the Yard; soak up the atmosphere, shop at the stalls, visit our shops, bars and restaurants, and embrace the festive cheer!”

Shopping at the Yard

Not only is the Yard hosting a number of Christmas markets this year, its impressive buildings are also home to a thriving community of shops and galleries where you'll find plenty of gift inspiration this festive season.

Browse the unique womens clothing on offer at Identity Fashion or pop into the creative hub of Ocean Studies where you can purchase pieces made by local makers.  

Treat yourself to handmade chocolates from the award-winning chocolatier Domea Favour or, if you’re looking for a festive tipple, pop into microbrewery Steel Brew Co for a great range of beers brewed right here in Plymouth. For wine lovers, Le Vignoble has a vast selection of over 300 wines from all over the world with something for every budget.  

Stay a little longer

Combine your Christmas shopping with a day of relaxation – or even a festive mini-break! Visit the Yard’s vibrant array of bars and eateries, stay at the stunning Grade II listed Rooms by Bistrot Pierre, or treat yourself to a pamper during party season at Enhance Aesthetics and Wellness or YOKE.

Getting to the Yard

Those travelling locally, Plymouth Citybus number 34 service includes routes to the City Centre and the park-and-ride at Milehouse. The number 21 has a stop at Stonehouse that is only a short walk from Royal William Yard. Or take to the water, with the Barbican, Royal William Yard & Mount Edgcumbe ferry service. 

Plymouth is easily accessible by train with a wide range of services running from a variety of locations within England. Although some services may require a change or two.

Travelling from London takes around 3 hours with Great Western Railway, if you're coming from the north, the trip from Manchester can take 5 hours 15 minutes. 

Alternatively, the recently renovated Night Riviera Sleeper service runs Monday – Friday and Sunday evenings. Visit gwr.com/sleeper for more details on times and how to book.

We recommend using GWR.com to search for the fastest and best route for your journey, and book in advance for the best price.