The Foundation of the River & Rowing Museum, in Henley-on-Thames, has said it will close its doors to the public for the last time on September 21, resulting in almost immediate job losses and the loss of a vital educational resource.
The venue’s struggle to achieve financial sustainability is well-known. A statement from the foundation said that with an endowment depleted by essential building works and significant increases in the cost of operation, recent net losses have averaged £1 million a year. Existing bookings for school visits and event space in September will be honoured. Patrons and annual pass-holders will be contacted.
Chair of Trustees David Worthington said: “The quality of the original concept cannot be underestimated, however, ultimately the venture was just too ambitious.
“I want to give thanks and pay tribute to the thousands of hours of commitment, heavy-lifting and simple belief that have come from the leadership, employees and the volunteers, from patrons, members, sponsors, trustees and more.
“Everyone has tried to make it work – and on one level we have. It has been a great museum, but in the end the financial challenge was simply too great.”
The museum houses a collection of more than 13,000 items, for which new homes are being sought. The final weekend of opening is September 20/21, coinciding with this year’s Heritage Open Days festival, and visitors are being urged to celebrate the end of a long and happy era with the team. Admission will be free.
