Upton Marina: Celebrating 50 Years on the Severn

21 November 2025

Upton Marina: Celebrating 50 Years on the Severn

2025 marks a golden milestone for one of the River Severn’s most cherished boating destinations – Upton Marina.

For half a century, this riverside haven has been a cornerstone of the Upton-upon-Severn community and a hub for generations of boaters. From its humble beginnings in the 1970s to its place today as part of the Tingdene family, Upton Marina’s story is one of vision, growth, and community spirit.

Before the Boats – The Brickholes Era

Long before the first mooring was laid, the site we now know as Upton Marina had a very different purpose.
In the 19th century, the area was known locally as The Brickholes — a working clay pit owned by the Walker family. The rich red clay extracted here was used to make bricks for the growing town, many of which can still be seen in Upton’s buildings today.

By the 1950s and 60s, the site had become a patchwork of ponds and pools — peaceful but unused, still disconnected from the river. It would take the vision of one determined local entrepreneur to transform it into something truly special.

1970s – The Vision Becomes Reality

That visionary was Keith J. Webb, a local businessman and boating enthusiast who recognised the site’s potential.
Planning permission was granted in 1973, the basin was excavated and connected to the River Severn in 1974, and in 1975 Upton Marina officially opened its doors.

From the start, the marina offered more than just moorings – it provided a community for river lovers, a place to enjoy the Severn’s beauty, and a new chapter in Upton’s story.

1980s – Expansion and New Ownership

As boating grew in popularity, so too did Upton Marina.
In 1980, a striking timber footbridge was opened over the marina entrance, then reputedly the longest-span timber bridge in the UK. That same year, the marina changed hands for the first time, sold to Yule Catto, and later managed by renowned yachtsman Robin Aisher under Surrey Sand & Gravel (operators of Penton Hook Marina).

This era saw upgrades to infrastructure, services, and capacity, setting the tone for Upton’s continued growth through the decades.

1990s – Building a Boating Community

The 1990s were all about people, facilities, and community.
Key milestones included:

1994 – The Upton Yacht Club and Café opened, later becoming The Wheelhouse, a much-loved spot for both boaters and locals.
1995–1996 – Installation of security gates, plus new toilet and shower blocks with accessible facilities.
1997 – Upton Rowing Club built a new boat shed in partnership with the marina and local authority.
1998 – Full car park surfacing completed, improving access and appearance.

By the end of the decade, Upton Marina had become more than just a marina — it was the beating heart of the local boating scene.

2000s – A New Chapter with Tingdene

The new millennium brought transformation and fresh ambition.
A new Wise slipway hoist and enlarged slipway were introduced in 2002, improving boat handling and maintenance facilities.

Then, in 2005, Upton Marina proudly became part of the Tingdene Marinas group, a turning point that connected it with a wider network of quality inland marinas across the UK.
From that moment, Upton’s story became part of a larger family – one that values customer experience, investment, and long-term stewardship of Britain’s waterways.

2010s – Modernising for the Future

The following decade saw extensive renovation and modernisation.
Upgrades to moorings, pontoons, power supply, and visitor facilities ensured the marina kept pace with changing boating needs.
This was a period of refinement, enhancing what made Upton special while safeguarding its charm and community feel.

Upton Marina also deepened its role in local events, hosting rallies, regattas, and festivals that brought energy and visitors to Upton-upon-Severn each year.

2020s – Innovation and a New Wave of Life

Recent years have seen Upton Marina continue to evolve while staying true to its roots.
In 2022, the marina unveiled Upton Lake pontoons and welcomed its first floating homes, blending leisure boating with waterfront living in an exciting new way.
The same year saw enhanced electrical supply, supporting more sustainable and efficient operations across the site.
In 2024, the refurbished shower and toilet blocks reopened, offering upgraded comfort and convenience for berth holders and visitors alike.

As Upton Marina celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, it stands as a testament to five decades of progress, passion, and partnership.

A Living Legacy

Today, Upton Marina remains one of the River Severn’s most popular destinations, a peaceful haven for boaters, walkers, and families alike.
It’s a place that has adapted to the times while keeping its community spirit at heart – a true reflection of Upton itself.

So here’s to fifty years of setting sail, sharing stories, and celebrating the best of riverside life.
And here’s to the next fifty, full of new adventures, new faces, and the same timeless River Severn magic.

Berth Holder Get Together

A Moment of Community As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, Saturday 1st November saw berth holders come together for a warm and nostalgic gathering in the marina office.

The event brought friends, neighbours, and long‑time river lovers together to enjoy refreshments and celebratory cupcakes while browsing a display of old photographs and stories from across the marina’s five-decade history. Laughter, memories, and shared experiences filled the room as boaters reflected on how much the marina has evolved, and how much its community spirit has endured.

It was a simple but meaningful celebration, embodying everything that makes Upton Marina special: its people, its stories, and its sense of belonging. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the occasion such a memorable part of our 50-year journey.