Just a few steps from the headquarters of the world-famous Henley Royal Regatta and on the banks of the Thames

Just a few steps from the headquarters of the world-famous Henley Royal Regatta and on the banks of the Thames directly opposite the River & Rowing Museum, the landmark site was acquired by the Collection’s patron, Adam Toop, as the future home for the Rose Toop Collection.

The Collection began in the late 1960s when hand-built wooden river craft were superseded by fibreglass. As old boats were broken up or abandoned and traditional building and maintenance skills no longer needed, William and Penelope Rose founded the Collection with the best examples of pleasure craft that could be found. These craft will now be brought together with Adam Toop’s collection.

The Collection period is 1890-1940. The craft, on acquisition, should be in original condition, unrestored, substantially unaltered from new and exceptionally good examples of their type. All are well-proportioned with the subtle sheer line – the common attribute of handsome boats. Artefacts support, explain and educate in relation to this period along with objects of beauty and rarity whose creation depended on the existence of the River Thames.

The aims of the Rose Toop Collection are to restore and preserve some of the best craft and their related accoutrements in as near perfect condition as possible, providing cause and means to practice those artisan skills necessary to maintain such craft.

Substantial investment is planned for the boatyard, which will be operated on a not-for-profit basis and in the absence of sponsorship. Facilities will be both improved and expanded for the benefit of the small community of marine businesses that operate from the site, the boat owners they serve, along with traditional boat clubs and societies.