A brief club history

The Clubhouse was originally the Salt Water Bathing House built back in 1825, when a cold water bath would cost you just 6d. By the end of the Second World War the Bath House was in a derelict state and ready for demolition.

A forward-thinking local councillor suggested that the building should be rented out as a headquarters for local sailors to attract the artisan class. Soon after, in 1946, the Lymington Town Sailing Club was formed. The membership, of around forty, were now faced with the mammoth task of renovating the badly neglected Bath House, before any serious consideration could be given to matters afloat. During the war the building had been used by the Coastguard as a look-out post, but seagulls had left their mark. The gallant few spent their spare time acting as labourers. These early founders built up a tremendous spirit of camaraderie, which still survives to this day.

Almost one hundred members joined in the first year and the Club's aims were laid down. In brief they were: to foster a love of sailing and offer opportunities to increase knowledge of seafaring activities; to form a friendly club for those wishing to develop their skills and to provide help for boat maintenance and storage of gear.

Committee meetings were held in local hostelries until the members constructed their own bar under the staircase in 1948. To mark this occasion, one of the hostelries generously presented a free barrel of beer to the hardworking members.

Sunday racing soon became popular with Oxey Birds, a few dinghies, Rover Scout whalers and several fishing boats. In 1950 the Club joined in Lymington's 800th anniversary celebrations by re-enacting the French invasion of the town with some amusing ideas. By 1956 membership had risen to 480 and a rise in fees heralded clubhouse improvements - a ladies' suite and changing rooms and the Club took great pride as two members were selected for the Olympic Games.

In 1961 the Club became Lymington Town Sailing Club Ltd., a company limited by guarantee and agreement was reached to lease the building and boat park. In 1971 £24,000 was raised to repair the building and add the Solent Room after the Council had agreed to a 28 year lease. The LTSC Solent Circuit (Winter Series), started in 1972 which at its height attracted well over 100 boats, and still continues with over 50 boats despite competition from other clubs in the Solent.

17th December 1989 saw the Clubhouse under water and a hefty repair bill. The flood level is commemorated on a plaque in the hallway.

The years that followed saw a steady increase in world, International and Class champions, all of whom can be seen on the Honours Board in the Clubhouse.

We were very proud to have held the J Class Regatta in August 2001.  This was the first time that all the J Class Yachts (Endeavour, Velsheda & Shamrock V) had raced in British waters for 65 years.

In April 2005 a balcony was added, giving us an even better view of the Western Solent. In September of that year, agreement was reached to extend the lease, agreed in 1999, from 30 years to a term of 77 years. After many months of fundraising, on 23 July 2009, a further extension was opened including a lift which allows full access to all parts of the club house.

Membership now exceeds 1600 people of all ages - more are welcome!