The United Kingdom’s maritime legacy is as old as its history—its harbours once launched voyages that mapped the globe, and today, its marinas serve as gateways to some of the most scenic and historic cruising waters in Europe. From the bustling, yacht-filled shores of the Solent to the serene anchorages of the Scottish Highlands, UK marinas offer more than just mooring—they provide access to culture, adventure, and the spirit of the sea.
Whether you’re planning a cross-channel sail, a coastal cruise, or a relaxing weekend afloat, this list highlights 10 of the UK’s most renowned marinas, each known for their unique character, professional facilities, and ideal locations.
1. Lymington Yacht Haven – Hampshire
Address: Kings Saltern Rd, Lymington SO41 3QD
Contact: +44 1590 677071
Website: yachthavens.com/lymington
Located on the edge of the New Forest National Park, Lymington is a picturesque harbour town and one of the most desirable yachting locations in the south of England. The marina features 600 fully serviced berths, a first-class boatyard, fuel dock, and luxury amenities including a bar, restaurant, and chandlery. It offers direct access to the Solent, ideal for both day sails and extended cruising.
2. Port Solent Marina – Portsmouth
Address: Port Way, Portsmouth PO6 4TJ
Contact: +44 23 9221 0765
Website: premiermarinas.com/marinas/port-solent-marina
A lively and fully integrated marina complex, Port Solent is a top pick for boaters seeking entertainment alongside sailing. With fully serviced pontoons, modern boatyard facilities, and a wide selection of waterfront restaurants, bars, and boutiques, it combines practicality with lifestyle. It also provides easy access to Portsmouth Harbour and the wider Solent area.
3. Brighton Marina – East Sussex
Address: Brighton BN2 5UF
Contact: +44 1273 819919
Website: brightonmarina.co.uk
One of the largest marinas in the UK, Brighton Marina accommodates 1,600 boats and is more like a floating village than a traditional dock. Beyond its comprehensive berthing services, the marina offers a cinema, large retail outlets, restaurants, a casino, and a direct link to the vibrant city of Brighton. It's an excellent choice for urban sailors who enjoy nightlife and convenience with their mooring.
4. Falmouth Marina – Cornwall
Address: North Parade, Falmouth TR11 2TD
Contact: +44 1326 316620
Website: premiermarinas.com/marinas/falmouth-marina
Falmouth is not only a popular cruising destination but also a vital stopover for longer passages along the English Channel or Atlantic coast. The marina offers 450 berths, a comprehensive boatyard, and a welcoming clubhouse atmosphere. Nestled within walking distance of Falmouth’s historic centre, it provides a blend of tranquillity, coastal beauty, and maritime culture.
5. Kip Marina – Inverclyde, Scotland
Address: Inverkip, Greenock PA16 0AS
Contact: +44 1475 521485
Website: kipmarina.co.uk
Recognized as Scotland’s first and finest marina, Kip Marina is a full-service destination with 600 berths, a well-equipped boatyard, and an on-site chandlery. Set at the gateway to the Clyde cruising grounds, it provides access to the Scottish isles, sea lochs, and some of Europe’s most dramatic sailing environments. Its friendly sailing community and proximity to Glasgow add to its appeal.
6. Sovereign Harbour Marina – Eastbourne
Address: Eastbourne BN23 5UZ
Contact: +44 1323 470099
Website: premiermarinas.com/marinas/sovereign-harbour
This modern development is one of the largest harbours on the south coast, offering 800 berths and extensive facilities including a retail park, cafes, pubs, and boat services. It’s located on the edge of the English Channel and makes an ideal starting point for cross-Channel sailing or cruising along the Sussex coast.
7. Chatham Maritime Marina – Kent
Address: Leviathan Way, Chatham ME4 4LP
Contact: +44 1634 899200
Website: mdlmarinas.co.uk/marinas/mdl-chatham-maritime-marina
Nestled in the heart of the historic Medway, Chatham Marina offers 300 berths and excellent access to the River Thames estuary. It’s located beside the Chatham Historic Dockyard, once a major naval shipbuilding hub. The marina is perfect for those seeking a mix of heritage tourism and accessible river or coastal cruising.
8. Troon Yacht Haven – Ayrshire, Scotland
Address: Harbour Rd, Troon KA10 6DJ
Contact: +44 1292 315553
Website: yachthavens.com/troon
Positioned on Scotland’s west coast, Troon Yacht Haven is a favourite for those exploring the Isle of Arran, Loch Fyne, and the wider Clyde. It features 400 serviced berths, a full-service yard, and a welcoming clubhouse atmosphere. The nearby train station provides quick access to Glasgow, making it an ideal location for both local and visiting sailors.
9. Haslar Marina – Gosport, Hampshire
Address: Haslar Rd, Gosport PO12 1NU
Contact: +44 2392 601201
Website: boatfolk.co.uk/haslar-marina-portsmouth
Situated right at the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour, Haslar Marina offers 600 berths, a popular restaurant inside a green lightship, and a comprehensive marine services hub. It's an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Solent, visiting the Isle of Wight, or accessing some of the UK’s busiest sailing waters.
10. Conwy Marina – North Wales
Address: Ellis Way, Conwy LL32 8GU
Contact: +44 1492 593000
Located at the mouth of the River Conwy, with a view of the majestic Conwy Castle, this 500-berth marina is ideal for exploring the Menai Strait, Anglesey, and the Irish Sea. It boasts full marine services, scenic surroundings, and direct access to North Wales’ stunning coastline.
A Sailing Nation’s Crown Jewels
Whether you’re sailing a weekend yacht or planning a long-distance passage, the United Kingdom’s marinas deliver exceptional service, rich history, and unforgettable landscapes. From the lively shores of Brighton and Portsmouth to the wild reaches of Conwy and Kip, these marinas are more than ports—they are destinations.
