Boats, boats, and more boats. That is the motto of Bossoms Boatyard. This is a place where the love for boats permeates everything. Welcome to Bossoms Boatyard. It is located on the bank of the River Thames, opposite Port Meadow.
Bossoms Boatyard has a rich history. The Bossom family managed the yard from about 1830 until 1945. The last family member retired from the business then. The company continues to build boats at this site.
Bossoms was among the first to use GRP for hulls. They build both sailcraft and electric boats. Bossoms Boatyard is one of the few exhibitors from the first London Boat Show still around.
But what does Bossoms Boatyard actually do? The people at Bossoms love building boats. They restore boats too. They also look after boats and talk about them. That drives Bossoms Boatyard. The people work together with care and craftsmanship. Each boat they build and maintain is individual.
If you buy a boat from Bossoms, you’re invited to participate. You can take part in its specification, build, and fitout. Your ideas combine with their skills. When you take delivery you will have the pleasure of knowing your boat was built the way you wanted it. It was built by Oxford craftsmen.
Bossoms builds various types of boats. These include the Vertue yacht and the Bosun dinghy. The Minisail dinghy and the Admiralty Sailing Craft dinghy are also products of Bossoms. They also build electric boats and launches.
Medley Sailing Club has a history with Bossoms. The club was originally based at Bossom’s moorings at Medley. The club first occupied a small boat shed. It was next to Bossom’s boatyard. It was used to dry sails.
To visit Bossoms Boatyard by road, it is quite straightforward. Leave the A34 ring road at the Botley junction. Follow the A420 for about a mile toward Oxford city center. You will pass a large Halfords car store on the left. Turn left into Binsey Lane 50 yards further on. Follow the road for approximately 1.5 miles into Binsey Village. You’ll see the Perch Inn ahead. There will be a track going across Binsey Green on the right. It is signposted to Bossoms Boatyard. Follow the track towards the river and then to the right. When you arrive, ask for Roger.
So, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply dream of life on the water, Bossoms Boatyard offers a glimpse into the world of boat building. It is a blend of tradition and innovation. Bossoms continues to create craft for the River Thames and beyond.