Woodbridge’s prosperity is rooted in its boat building industry, which began in medieval times. Benefitting from an ideal location on the river and with access to oak from the forests around Framlingham, by the time Elizabeth I was on the throne, the town was well-established as a shipbuilding centre.

The founder of Robertson’s Boatyard, Ebenezer Robertson, had the idea to start the business on a train journey to Southwold in 1884. Eyeing up the empty Lime Kiln Shipyard, he realised it was the ideal space in which to build yachts. One of his sons ran the yard, training local men to be shipwrights and constructing boats.

Although no longer owned by a Robertson, the yard today is still a family-owned business. In recent years there has been significant investment in many areas. The main buildings have been refurbished; machinery and lifting equipment replaced and upgraded, and accommodation (The Crow’s Nest) added with stunning views across the River Deben.

More recently, seeing a gap in the market here in Woodbridge for flexible working, a decision was made to turn an old boat shed into a co-working/event space. In addition, The Cabin - a converted shipping container followed and soon a boat called Bluebell, which will be in dry dock and serve as another, yet unique, work and meeting space.

Outside of mid-week office hours, the above spaces are available for hire. They host evening yoga classes and a folk band that uses the Sprat Shed as a rehearsal space. The XXXX shed is a versatile space that can host anything from workshops to exhibitions. For more information, please contact us here.