THE ULTIMATE ROMANTIC RETREAT AT ROYAL WILLIAM YARD

Thriving waterside destination, Plymouth’s historic Royal William Yard has a whole host of things to do and delight in this Valentine’s Day.

From dining experiences and artisan treats, to luxury beauty treatments and adventurous dates, the Yard offers plenty to enjoy and discover throughout February whether you’re single or coupled up.

Hailey Cattle, Regional Marketing Manager for Urban Splash, said: “Royal William Yard is abuzz with activities and experiences to help you celebrate and reconnect with those you love. From catching up over a meal or embarking on a new outdoor adventure, to taking a sunset stroll or staying here overnight – the possibilities are endless.”

Here, we’ve pulled together some ways to make the most of Valentine’s Day at the Yard. You can also visit royalwilliamyard.com or take a look on social media for inspiration on what you can see and do to rest, play and stay in style at this special place at the most romantic time of the year.

Dining

Delivering the wow-factor, Bistrot Pierre the Yard’s resident classic French restaurant, is offering a very special Valentine’s Menu from Saturday 12th through to Monday 14th February. A three-course dinner made up of much-loved favourites from the Bistrot’s menu, diners will also be treated to delicious sharing dishes, including whole baked Normandy Camembert. All for just £34.95 per person, bookings can be made at bistrotpierre.co.uk

Highly regarded and home to Plymouth’s first speciality rum bar, discover fresh seafood with Hook & Line’s exclusive St. Valentines Menu. With a Champagne cocktail on arrival and highlights such as an Oyster & Avruga Caviar starter and Lobster & Crab Tortellini main, your valentine will be impressed by the three-course menu on offer. Available for just £35.00 per person, book via thehookandlineplymouth.co.uk

There’s nothing more romantic than a meal for two – and you’ll be spoiled for choice from incredible independents to much-loved popular restaurants. Retire for a well-deserved bite to eat and glass of the good stuff. Ranked as “unmissable” by Lonely Planet, the Yard boasts an abundance of standout eateries offering a variety of cuisines to tempt all tastebuds.

Try much-loved Wagamama for authentic Asian and Japanese cuisine, Prezzo for casual Italian dining or Seco Lounge for a packed menu. Famous for serving delicious pizza and pasta, Wildwood offers a great setting for a romantic meal. The Club House is the perfect spot for evening cocktails served alongside their signature hanging kebabs.

Drinks

Extend your Valentine’s celebration into the evening, take to the Yard’s resident wine bar, Le Vignoble for a candlelit evening that oozes charm and romance. Enjoy French light bites while trying wines from the extensive menu. An award-winning wine merchant offering delivery, you can also give your loved-one the gift of fine wine or select a bottle to savour at home. Find out more at levignoble.co.uk

A fan of craft beers? Look no further than the Yard’s very own microbrewery and taproom, Steel Brew Co. A relaxed atmosphere made even better with great company, don’t miss trying the Plymouth Pale Ale on tap; the recent winner of Taste of the West’s Champion Beer Award. Also on offer are plenty of ideas for presents, including a Brew Day Experience, and gift set such as the classic ‘Bar in a Box’ or sensational ‘Beer & Rum Gift Set’. Visit steelbrew.co for all the details.

Gifts

What Valentine’s Day is complete without a box of chocolates? All the better if you’re single, as you won’t have to share! Domea Favour is the Yard’s own resident chocolatier, named the South West’s Chocolatier of the Year. The luxury chocolates are hand crafted, with exceptional flavours that will have you returning time and again. Create a luxury chocolate box that’s perfect for gifting – why not even pick a heart shaped box? Get inspired at domeafavourchocolate.co.uk

Have a mooch around the Yard’s must-visit boutiques. First stop Identity Fashion, home of exclusive and high-quality fashion and accessories. With gift vouchers also available instore and online at identityfashion.online, this could be the ideal Valentine’s gift to win you brownie points! Other unique and handmade wares are available in the shop space at creative hub, Ocean Studios, including prints, pottery, jewellery and more.

Pampering

Combine luxury and comfort with the ultimate spa experience at Enhance Aesthetics & Wellness. From feel-good facials and reviving massages, to beauty treatments and specialist manicures, it’s a gift that’s sure to delight. You can also pick up some stunning presents, from beautiful candles, massage oils, body butters to all things face! Pop in or visit enhanceplymouth.co.uk

Treat yourself or a loved one to a pampering courtesy of the best in the business at YOKE the Salon – the award-winning ethical hair salon – or pick up some outstanding haircare products and gift sets available in store. YOKE also often hosts pop-ups for local independent makers and artists, which is bound to give you some gift inspiration. Check them out on social media or visit yokethesalon.co.uk

Active

Take a romantic stroll through the Yard and along the famous South West Coast Path. Steeped in rich maritime history, you can soak up jaw-dropping panoramas and stunning sunsets. With a choice of three route options accessible from the Yard, you’ll be treated to a memorable scenic walk whatever walk you choose. Find out more about the South West Coast Path at southwestcoastpath.org.uk

Fancy something a little more adventurous? Amidst the romantic setting of the Grade I listed destination, make a splash this Valentine’s Day by treating someone special to a stand-up paddle boarding session with the award-winning South West SUP. Create a moment to remember by experiencing the coastal scenery from the water. To discover a choice of sessions and to book, visit southwestsup.co.uk

Keep things on the wild side with Ace Swimming for a unique Valentine’s experience that’s sure to be memorable. Dive in with open water swimming sessions, a refreshing dip that’s perfect for complete beginners and experienced swimmers alike. A great opportunity to spend some quality time together with a shared hobby. Bookings can be made at aceswimming.co.uk

Stay

With such a varied and vibrant offering of things to do at the Yard this February, take advantage of its stunning Grade II listed boutique B&B, Rooms by Bistrot Pierre. Whether a surprise romantic retreat for your Valentine, or a well-deserved minibreak just for yourself, it’s the ultimate way to sample and really savour the array of the delights available at the Yard. What’s more, as a guest of the B&B you’ll be treated to exclusive use of the secret garden that sits just behind the stunning building, a much-loved spot to admire the views across Firestone Bay. Book at bistrotpierre.co.uk/rooms

If you’re lucky enough to have or hire a boat, Royal William Yard has its very own marina so you can sail into a romantic getaway in style. With short term visitor berths, perfect for motor boats and smaller yachts, the visiting mariner can soak up the atmosphere of this unique and special place from the water – and hop off to enjoy all the Yard has to offer. The marina also offers a ferry link to Mount Edgcumbe in Cornwall and Plymouth’s historic Barbican, so you can make even more of your romantic adventure! Take a look at royalwilliamyardmarina.co.uk for more information.