MDL Marinas is to mark the 40th anniversary of Hythe Marina Village, the UK’s first purpose-built marina village, with a weekend of celebrations on 20–21 September.
A landmark development when it opened in 1985, Hythe Marina Village remains one of MDL’s flagship locations. Situated on the western shore of Southampton Water, it offers a unique combination of a 206-berth marina, vibrant waterside homes, restaurants, shops and a boutique hotel.
Inspired by Port Grimaud on the Côte d’Azur, Hythe Marina Village was a pioneering concept in the UK, combining luxury waterside living with first-class boating facilities. The development was officially launched on 4 December 1984, when Sir Christopher Cockerell, inventor of the hovercraft, laid the first brick.
Its gala opening the following year attracted national headlines when the first boats through its lock included actor Arthur Lowe’s Edwardian steam yacht Amazon and Richard Branson’s record-breaking speed boat Atlantic Challenger. Hythe Marina Village also featured prominently as one of the filming locations for the BBC drama Howards’ Way, showcasing its marina facilities and adding to the glamour of the series.
“Hythe Marina Village is a signature development in MDL’s portfolio and a true icon of British marina design,” says Tim Mayer, MDL’s Sales and Marketing Director. “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.”
Celebratory events
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Hythe Marina Association is organising two special community events. The celebrations begin with a Hog Roast on Saturday 20 September, a ticketed evening event for residents, before culminating in the weekend’s highlight – a Sail Past Spectacular on Sunday 21 September.
From 11am to 4pm, a colourful parade of boats will set out in convoy from Hythe Marina, sailing a buoyed course in Southampton Water. With vessels dressed in style, live commentary, prizes, food and drink stalls, and live music, it promises a vibrant day by the water for all ages.
“It’s a privilege to manage such a unique and historic marina, where boating and community come together in such a special way,” says Debbie Scott, Marina Manager at Hythe Marina Village. “The 40th anniversary is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the marina’s incredible history while looking forward to the next chapter. We can’t wait to celebrate with our berth holders, residents and visitors.”
With easy access to the Solent, exceptional boatyard facilities and a rich blend of dining and leisure options including The Boathouse and Indian Kitchen, Hythe Marina Village continues to deliver an unrivalled marina lifestyle four decades on.
For more information on MDL’s Hythe Marina, including its wealth of facilities and services, visitwww.hythemarinavillage.co.uk
