On the Doorstep: A Berth Holder’s Guide to Royal William Yard and Plymouth Hoe

Sailing is only half the pleasure of marina life. The other half is what waits for you when you step ashore, and on that score King Point is spoiled. From the pontoons at Millbay you can be somewhere genuinely lovely in minutes, on foot, no car required. Here is how to make the most of a summer berth in the heart of it.

Royal William Yard, right next door

The beautifully restored naval victualling yard is King Point’s most famous neighbour, and one of Plymouth’s finest destinations in its own right. Grand Georgian buildings now house some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, cafes and galleries, all a short stroll from your berth. Through the summer there are free family activities on Saturdays, and a seasonal passenger ferry hops across the water to Cawsand for those who fancy a day trip without slipping their own lines.

Plymouth Hoe, a short walk away

In the other direction lies Plymouth Hoe, the great green promenade above the Sound. Walk up for the red and white candy stripes of Smeaton’s Tower, sweeping views across the water to the breakwater and beyond, and the art deco Tinside Lido for a proper sea swim on a warm day. On a clear July evening there are few better places to watch the light fade over the water.

And everything else the city offers

Beyond the immediate doorstep, the whole of Plymouth is easily reached. The city centre and its shops are a walk away, and the historic Barbican, with its restaurants and independent shops, is a short trip across the city when you fancy a change of scene. Few marinas put quite so much within such easy reach.

This is Millbay living

It is this blend that makes King Point special: a sheltered, modern marina where you can sail from your doorstep in the morning and dine at a waterfront restaurant in the evening, all without moving the car. For berth holders it is a genuine lifestyle, and for visiting sailors it makes Plymouth a stop worth planning around.

Passing through this summer, or thinking about a berth of your own? Get in touch with the team on 01752 424 297 or marina@kingpointmarina.co.uk and come and see Millbay at its best.