Hythe Marina Village in Southampton, United Kingdom, owned and operated by MDL Marinas, will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a weekend of events on 20-21 September 2025. The programme will highlight the site’s role as a development that brought together boating, residential living and community amenities.
Located on the western shore of Southampton Water, Hythe Marina Village opened in 1985 as the UK’s first purpose-built marina village. The facility’s development began in December 1984, when Sir Christopher Cockerell, inventor of the hovercraft, laid the first brick.
The official opening attracted national attention, with Richard Branson’s Atlantic Challenger and Arthur Lowe’s steam yacht Amazon among the first vessels through the lock. The marina later gained wider recognition as a filming location for the BBC drama Howards’ Way.
Today, Hythe Marina Village offers 206 berths, accommodating vessels up to 16 metres in length. The facility also provides a 40-tonne hoist, a boatyard for maintenance, fuel stations, a slipway and storage ashore for more than 120 boats. Shoreside amenities include waterfront homes, shops, The Boathouse and Indian Kitchen restaurants, a boutique hotel, fitness and leisure facilities, and a ferry service to Southampton.
Tim Mayer, Sales and Marketing Director at MDL Marinas, said: “Hythe Marina Village is a signature development in MDL’s portfolio and a true icon of British marina design. When it opened 40 years ago, it redefined what a marina could be. Today, it’s not only a destination for boaters but a thriving community and lifestyle hub. We’re delighted to celebrate this milestone with our berth holders, residents and the local community who have all played such a vital role in its success.”
The Hythe Marina Association has planned two main activities for the celebration. On Saturday, 20 September, residents will attend a Hog Roast, while Sunday, 21 September features the Sail Past Spectacular from 11:00 to 16:00.
During the parade, vessels will follow a buoyed course in Southampton Water. Participants will display decorations, and visitors can enjoy live commentary, music, food and drink stalls, and prizes.
Debbie Scott, Marina Manager at Hythe Marina Village, stated: “It’s a privilege to manage such a unique and historic marina, where boating and community come together in such a special way. The 40th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the marina’s history while looking forward to the next chapter. We can’t wait to celebrate with our berth holders, residents and visitors.”
