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.