Sutton Hoo Ship Replica Project Secures New Premises

The team engaged in constructing a renowned Anglo-Saxon burial ship has secured an alternative workspace. The £1.5 million replica of the Sutton Hoo ship was previously under construction at The Longshed in Woodbridge, Suffolk, but concerns arose regarding the adequacy of its size. The Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company (SHSC) has since located a new base at Robertsons Boatyard, situated in close proximity. Sean McMillan, who serves as a trustee and the board chair for SHSC, commented that the “magnificent building” at the new location would provide an excellent home for the vessel. He elaborated, “We’ve been building the ship without as much space as we should have had, given that the building was built specifically to build the ship.” McMillan added, “We’ve been working with one hand behind our back.” The volunteers involved in the reconstruction project had previously reduced their utilization of the former premises to 40%. Subsequently, the Woodbridge Riverside Trust, which had leased the previous facility to the team, indicated that the project could now occupy “at least 75% of the ground floor.” Mr. McMillan stated that an additional agreement could not be reached, leading the project to seek a new permanent location. He further remarked, “I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve come to a mutually very agreeable agreement with the owners and directors of Robertsons Boatyard in Woodbridge which is less than a five minute walk away from the long shed.” SHSC has secured a 20-year lease for a structure on this property, which will undergo refurbishment to accommodate the ship and a new visitor center. During the refurbishment period, construction on the ship will proceed, with its relocation anticipated in approximately 18 months. McMillan commented, “That’ll give us a magnificent building to house the ship and house future projects, and have a visitor centre in the most beautiful setting.” He concluded, “We’ve got time to do it and it should work out fine.” Currently, two-thirds of the ship’s wooden planks have been installed. Although the project encountered difficulties sourcing the necessary oak trees, Mr. McMillan indicated that a delivery is expected next week. In a formal statement, Robertsons Boatyard expressed that it was “delighted and proud” to collaborate with SHSC. The statement continued, “As a second-generation family business, we are proud to be providing a unique base for this venture on the banks of the River Deben, within the gaze of the Sutton Hoo burial ground. It is an opportunity to invest in the future while conserving the past.” SHSC was founded in 2016 with the objective of reconstructing the 88-foot Anglo-Saxon burial ship, employing 7th Century materials and techniques. The organization intends to launch the vessel on the River Deben in 2026.