Live music returns to Royal William Yard for the summer

9th June 2025

Royal William Yard's Yard Sessions are returning for summer 2025 with a stunning new venue to match the growing popularity of the annual event series. The free live music events are moving to the enchanting 'Secret Garden' – Plymouth's best kept live music secret, tucked away at the historic waterfront destination.

The Secret Garden is located behind Residence 1 – home to boutique B&B Rooms by Bistrot Pierre – found through an archway into a landscaped walled garden just metres from the sea. This one-of-a-kind venue creates incredible acoustics and atmosphere – perfect for the live music series that celebrates the best local talent, spanning a range of styles.

The sensational Friday evening sessions run from 5:30-8pm throughout the summer, offering the perfect way to end the week and usher in the weekend. A venue like no other; the Grade I listed buildings form a dramatic backdrop with the sound of waves nearby, and 'the lookout' provides elevated views over Plymouth Sound for those who venture up the garden steps.

During this summer’s Yard Sessions, visitors can sink into Royal William Yard deckchairs and relax on picnic blankets - or bring their own and get cosy. There will be a licensed bar within the Secret Garden, run by the Yard's very own independent wine bar, Le Vignoble, ensuring a range of refreshments to complement the musical line-up.

This year's programme is as follows:

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

Featuring handpicked international artists alongside the brightest talent on the South West scene, it ranges from laid-back folk to thumping foot stompers. The Andy Quick Trio deliver retro alt funk/blues and a lively bunch of anthems, whilst Simon and John offer a blend of acoustic rock classics and sing-along songs. Brother and sister duo Thomas Ford and Becca Langsford serve up energetic jump blues, and Devon-born singer-songwriter Alex Hart rounds out the line-up as an important addition to the UK's current crop of classy country and roots artists.

With its unique walled garden setting, incredible sound and that unbeatable seaside atmosphere, Yard Sessions 2025 promises to be a sought-after musical experience. Make an evening of it and explore Royal William Yard's bars and eateries, or simply sit back, relax, and let the music play as the sun sets in this scenic setting.