Welcome to the Cockle Pond– A Century of Model Boating and Maritime Skill!​

The Gosport Marine Festival Heritage Trail invites you to explore six key locations, each rich with local stories, maritime heritage, and the creative energy of Gosport’s people.
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Nestled beside Walpole Park in central Gosport, The Cockle Pond—also known as the Gosport Model Yacht Lake—stands as a testament to the town’s rich maritime heritage and community spirit. From Tidal Inlet to Model Yacht Lake Originally a tidal millpond in the early 19th century, ​

From Tidal Inlet to Model Yacht Lake Originally a tidal millpond in the early 19th century, The Cockle Pond underwent significant transformation in the 1920s. In 1921, as part of a government-funded unemployment relief program, the pond was redeveloped into a dedicated model boating lake. This initiative not only provided employment opportunities but also established a recreational hub for the community.

The official opening on August 1, 1921, by Councillor G.F. Goodwin attracted approximately 3,000 attendees, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Gosport’s recreational life.  Initially a single body of water, a catwalk was later added to divide the pond into two sections, enhancing its functionality for model boating activities.

Gosport Model Yacht & Boat Club
Established in 1913, the Gosport Model Yacht & Boat Club is one of the oldest clubs of its kind in the UK. The club has been instrumental in developing international model sailing classes and has hosted numerous prestigious events. Notably, the UK National Championships and the International Yachting Monthly Cup, initiated in 1923, have attracted participants from around the world, including countries like Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, and the USA. 
In the late 1920s, a distinctive boathouse was constructed beside the pond, crafted by skilled shipwrights from Camper and Nicholsons, the renowned Gosport yacht builders. This facility has served as a hub for enthusiasts and continues to support the club’s activities.

Ecological and Cultural Significance
Beyond its recreational use, The Cockle Pond holds ecological importance. In 1971, the area was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and recognised as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The pond supports a diverse range of wildlife and contributes to the town’s environmental diversity. The pond’s transformation from a tidal inlet to a model boating lake reflects Gosport’s adaptability and commitment to community well-being. It stands as a symbol of the town’s maritime legacy and continues to be a focal point for both residents and visitors.

Historic Swimming Pool
Adjacent to Cockle Pond once stood the Gosport Open-Air Swimming Pool, a cherished facility that opened in 1924. Constructed on the site of the old rampart moat, the pool featured chlorinated saltwater and a waterfall, offering a unique swimming experience. It served as a popular recreational spot for locals, including students from nearby schools like Brockhurst Junior School. Despite its popularity, the pool faced challenges in the early 1980s, leading to its closure. Factors contributing to its demise included structural issues and the impending opening of the Holbrook Indoor Pool, which offered modern amenities. The site of the former open-air pool has since been repurposed, but memories of its significance remain vivid among long-time residents. 

Today, The Cockle Pond continues to thrive as a centre  for model boating, ecological preservation, and community engagement, embodying the rich tapestry of Gosport’s history and cultural evolution.

Gosport Marine Festival Heritage Trail is part of Hampshire Cultural Trust’s ‘Gosport Heritage Generator’ which is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Gosport Borough Council.