Why Plymouth is Perfect for a Family Holiday
Devon is one of the UK's most beloved family holiday destinations — and Plymouth puts you right at the heart of it. From award-winning beaches to open moorland, from an acclaimed aquarium to Tinside Lido, Plymouth and the surrounding area have everything for a brilliant family break.
Welcome Retreats is ideally placed for family holidays. Our self-catering apartment at Royal William Yard sleeps up to 4 people, has a fully equipped kitchen so you can cook your own meals (saving significantly on a family food budget), and comes with convenient parking. The secure, pedestrianised waterfront setting is safe and relaxed for children.
Family-Friendly Features
Sleeps 4
King-size bed plus sofa bed in the living area. Travel cot available on request for younger children.
Full Kitchen
Fridge/freezer, oven, hob, microwave — everything you need to prepare family meals and save on eating out every night.
Washer/Dryer
Essential for family holidays — especially useful for muddy Dartmoor walks or longer stays.
Free Parking
Royal William Yard car park right by the apartment. Secure, well-lit, and the waterfront development is pedestrianised once you're parked.
Safe Waterfront
Royal William Yard's car-free promenade is perfect for children. Wide open waterfront space with no through traffic.
Fast WiFi
High-speed WiFi keeps teenagers happy on rainy days, and means you can stream films and work remotely if needed.
Top Family Activities Near Royal William Yard
National Marine Aquarium
The UK's largest aquarium is a 10-minute walk along the waterfront from Royal William Yard. Home to sharks, rays, seahorses, and tropical fish, it's a half-day family highlight. There's a café and gift shop on site.
Tinside Lido
One of Plymouth's most iconic attractions, this stunning Art Deco outdoor pool on Plymouth Hoe is a 15-minute walk from the apartment. Open in summer, it's one of the most beautiful outdoor pools in England and a real family favourite.
Plymouth Hoe & Smeaton's Tower
The Hoe is Plymouth's famous clifftop park overlooking Plymouth Sound. Kids love climbing Smeaton's Tower lighthouse for panoramic views, and there's plenty of open space for games, kite flying, and taking in the sea air.
Dartmoor National Park
Just 30 minutes' drive from the apartment, Dartmoor is a world-class natural playground. Walk to Haytor Rocks, spot wild Dartmoor ponies, explore Burrator Reservoir, or visit one of the many family-friendly pubs with beer gardens in moorland villages.
Devon Beaches
Bovisand Beach (15 mins), Wembury (20 mins), Bantham and Bigbury-on-Sea (45 mins). For surf, Croyde in North Devon is about 90 minutes. Plymouth genuinely gives you excellent beach access in all directions.
Plymouth Barbican
The Barbican is Plymouth's historic harbour district — cobbled streets, fish & chip shops, the Mayflower Steps, and lots of history. The National Marine Aquarium is here too. Perfect for a family afternoon walk and ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The apartment sleeps up to 4 (king-size bed plus sofa bed) and a travel cot is available on request. The secure building entrance and ground-floor proximity to Royal William Yard's car-free waterfront make it ideal for families with young children. The kitchen means you can prepare meals to suit fussy eaters, and there's a washing machine for longer stays.
Plymouth is packed with family activities. The National Marine Aquarium is a 10-minute walk along the waterfront. Tinside Lido (a stunning Art Deco open-air pool) is on Plymouth Hoe, about 25 minutes' walk. Plymouth City Centre has a bowling alley, cinema and soft play. Dartmoor is 30 minutes by car — perfect for Dartmoor pony spotting, Burrator Reservoir and family walks.
Yes — several within easy reach. Bovisand Beach is a sheltered cove 15 minutes by car. Wembury Beach (great rock pools, National Trust) is 20 minutes. For bigger sandy beaches, Bantham, Bigbury-on-Sea and the surfing beaches of Croyde are 45 minutes to an hour. Plymouth Sound itself has Tinside Lido right on the Hoe.
Yes, parking is available at Royal William Yard. We provide full parking instructions with your booking confirmation. Royal William Yard has its own car park with reasonable rates, and the whole development is pedestrianised once you're parked — making it very safe for children.
We have a 2-night minimum stay for off-peak periods. During school holidays and bank holidays, a 3-night minimum may apply. For a proper family holiday we'd recommend at least 4-5 nights to explore Dartmoor, the beaches, and Plymouth's attractions without rushing. Weekly rates are available — contact us for a quote.
Book Your Family Holiday
From just £103 per night at Royal William Yard, Plymouth. Book direct for the best rates.
Explore More
- About the apartment — full details, photos and amenities
- Location & getting here — directions, parking and nearby attractions
- Weekend breaks in Plymouth — 2–3 night itineraries
- Best restaurants and cafes — family-friendly dining near Royal William Yard