Royal William Yard’s Popular ‘Yard Sessions’ Returns This Friday

The return of the much anticipated Yard Session at Royal William Yard. Photo Credit - Urban Splash

Plymouth’s Royal William Yard is set to host its popular Yard Sessions once again in summer 2025.

Yard Sessions 2025 also reveals it’s new venue called ‘The Secret Garden’, tucked behind Grade I listed buildings and just metres from the waterfront, the garden offers a unique backdrop and natural acoustics for the free Friday night events.

The Secret Garden venue is situated behind Residence One, a boutique B&B, and can be accessed via an archway leading into a landscaped, enclosed green space. Elevated views over Plymouth Sound are available from ‘the lookout’, a raised spot within the garden.

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Running across several dates from June to September, the Yard Sessions will showcase a mix of local and international acts. The performances span genres from folk to funk, all designed to be enjoyed in a relaxed open-air setting.

Visitors can bring blankets, settle into deckchairs, and enjoy a drink from a pop-up bar run by Le Vignoble, an independent wine bar based in the Yard.

Yard Sessions Key Takeaways

  • New Venue for 2025: Yard Sessions will take place in the Secret Garden at Royal William Yard – an atmospheric, tucked-away space behind historic Residence One.
  • Free Live Music: The Friday night sessions (June–September) offer a varied line-up of local and international artists spanning blues, folk, and acoustic genres.
  • Relaxed Coastal Setting: Attendees can enjoy music in a garden by the sea, with food, drink, and panoramic views of Plymouth Sound.

The full 2025 Yard Sessions programme is:

  • Friday 13 June – The Andy Quick Trio
  • Friday 20 June – Simon and John
  • Friday 25 July – Sundowner Session (artist TBA)
  • Friday 29 August – Thomas Ford and Becca Langsford
  • Friday 12 September – Alex Hart

Acts confirmed so far include retro funk trio The Andy Quick Trio, acoustic duo Simon and John, blues siblings Thomas Ford and Becca Langsford, and singer-songwriter Alex Hart, a rising name in country and roots music.

Organisers hope the new venue and varied line-up will cement Yard Sessions as a fixture in Plymouth’s cultural calendar. Entry to all events is free, with no booking required.

More information can be found at www.royalwilliamyard.com/whats-on