Thirty years ago, on 24 March, the Cruising Association moved into its new purpose-built headquarters at CA House, Limehouse.
The move came after the rent for the CA’s previous home, Ivory House at St Katharine Docks, tripled, and it became evident that the space was inadequate. Following an extensive search for suitable premises, which needed to be within reach of the London mainline stations, British Waterways offered the site at Limehouse.
The acquisition and construction costs were partially funded by the sale of 300 rare books from the CA’s library to Cambridge University Library, which members can read about in the March edition of Cruising. Additional funding came from CA Foundation Members who bought property bonds. A list of those who are still members (and have agreed to share their details) is always included in the CA Yearbook.
The building’s architect, Eric Pavey, turned eighty this year and is, according to his daughter, "in fine fettle". He still has a copy of the magazine where the new building was featured and mentions it often as a project he was especially proud of. The CA hopes to welcome Eric and his daughter to CA House later this year.
Do you have any interesting memories or unusual photos of CA House? For the June edition of Cruising the CA plans to compile a commemorative article. Please contact editor@theca.org.uk with your text or images.
About CA House
The scenic Thames-side location of CA House, our members’ clubhouse and headquarters, overlooks Limehouse Basin Marina and offers easy access to central London and Canary Wharf. CA House facilities include:
- Library and Information Centre – containing more than 10,000 books, charts, and pilot guides for cruise planning, it is the most comprehensive source of cruising information in the world. We offer members a range of services and facilities.
- Cabin Accommodation – members and their guests. can stay in one our five en-suite cabins. The cabins are great value for visits to London, whether to spend a couple of days cruise planning in the library, attending a CA function, or just visiting London for business or leisure.
- The Galley Restaurant and Bar – The Galley is open to members and visiting yachtsmen for hot and cold drinks and delicious meals from 1800-2300 hrs from Monday to Friday and 1200-2300 hrs on Saturday and Sunday.
CA House also offers meeting, conference and function room hire.
CA History
CA members can find out more about the history of the CA here.
19 March 2024