MDL Marinas has marked the 40th anniversary of Hythe Marina Village, the UK’s first purpose-built marina village, with a weekend of celebrations.
The celebration began on Saturday 20 September with a community hog roast, organised by Hythe Marina Association. The ticketed event provided an occasion for residents and visitors connected to the marina to meet and mark the milestone.
The weekend concluded on Sunday 21 September with the Sail Past Spectacular. Between 11am and 4pm, a parade of decorated boats followed a buoyed course from Hythe Marina into Southampton Water. Activities on the waterfront included commentary, prize-giving, music, and food and drink stalls.
“Hythe Marina Village is such a unique and special part of MDL’s portfolio, and it was wonderful to celebrate its 40th anniversary with the people who make it so special – our berth holders, residents and local community,” said Tim Mayer, MDL’s sales and marketing director. “The success of the weekend reflects the spirit and vibrancy that has defined Hythe Marina since it first opened.”
Opened in 1985, Hythe Marina Village is located on the western shore of Southampton Water, on the UK’s south coast. It combines a 206-berth marina with waterside homes, restaurants, shops and a hotel. The development was influenced by Port Grimaud on the Côte d’Azur and was launched on 4 December 1984, when Sir Christopher Cockerell, inventor of the hovercraft, laid the first brick.
The official opening in 1985 included a gala event that drew national attention, featuring actor Arthur Lowe’s Edwardian steam yacht Amazon and Richard Branson’s speed boat Atlantic Challenger passing through its lock. The site was also used as a filming location for the BBC drama Howards’ Way.
“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate our 40th anniversary,” said Debbie Scott, marina manager at Hythe Marina Village. “We’re so grateful to all who attended and made the celebrations unforgettable.
“This anniversary has been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the marina’s incredible history while looking forward to its exciting future. Here’s to many more years of life on the water at Hythe Marina Village.”
Hythe Marina Village offers access to the Solent along with boatyard facilities, dining and leisure options including The Boathouse and Indian Kitchen.
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