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The Story of St Katharine's

This important, unique book tells the story of St Katharine’s in central London, from the ancient hospital and church founded by Queen Matilda in 1148, to today’s splendid Yacht Marina that we cherish today, in the shadow of Tower Bridge.

Our story dates back to the 12th century when St. Katharine’s Hospital and Church was founded by Queen Matilda, becoming important and powerful, with its Royal patronage dominating for more than 800 years. The first mention of docks on the land was in the 14th century. The Precinct developed with more than 4000 people in its community.

In 1828, the medieval Hospital and Church of St Katharine had to make way for the opening of St Katharine Docks, which became the ‘luxury commodity centre for Europe,’ trading the finest perfumes, ivory, herbs, spices, silks, wines and much more. Having been badly damaged during the Second World War and with trade declining, the Docks closed, only to be resurrected in the 1970s to become ‘The Yacht Haven,’ evolving into the world-renowned marina we know today. 

The Book