RNLI 200th Birthday – Royal William Yard

In celebration of the RNLI’s remarkable 200-years of service, Royal William Yard is set to host an exhilarating day of festivities. Guests can partake in a plethora of fun activities, from exploring lifeboats docked in the marina to witnessing daring rescue demonstrations and enjoying spirited sea shanty performances. Delve into the rich history of the RNLI as it commemorates this milestone year.

Royal William Yard Marina will be adorned with four RNLI lifeboats, including the impressive Severn class all-weather vessel, the fleet’s largest. Visitors will have the opportunity to step aboard these vessels and interact with their dedicated crews throughout the day. The festivities will culminate in a grand procession across the Hoe, led by a rescue helicopter escort.

Enhancing the celebratory ambiance, the renowned shanty band, the Tavy Tars, will serenade attendees with maritime tunes. The event promises entertainment for all ages while also serving as a platform to raise vital funds in support of the RNLI’s extensive network of lifeboat stations and lifeguard-protected beaches, totalling 238 stations and 242 beaches nationwide.

Family fun

As well as all the action on the water, the RNLI team will provide information and entertainment back on dry land with the RNLI fundraising team, RNLI shop, Water Safety Team, Coastguard Rescue Team, and Dartmoor Search and Rescue all in attendance. At the RNLI stall, children can have fun trying on lifeboat crew uniforms, with custom-made Helly Hansen kids’ kits.

Families can get involved in a RNLI-themed interactive trail, exploring Royal William Yard to uncover fascinating facts about the charity and delve into its remarkable history. Plymouth was one of the first places on the coast of Great Britain to have a lifeboat, and has played a pivotal role since the RNLI was founded in 1824.

Make a day of it

Amidst the bustling activity spread across the venue, visitors are invited to indulge in a full day of excitement by experiencing Royal William Yard’s beloved monthly Good Food & Draft Market. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Green, the market will showcase the finest offerings from the region’s top producers and artisans, boasting an abundance of delectable food, refreshing drinks, and delightful treats.

For added convenience, a complimentary shuttle bus service will be available, operating in a continuous loop from the City Centre to Royal William Yard and back every thirty minutes. With two designated pick-up points in town, the hop-on hop-off service will run from 10am to 3:30pm, ensuring hassle-free transportation throughout the day.

More information

Find out more about Royal William Yard here and uncover the great work on the RNLI and its 200th anniversary here. Shuttle bus information available here.