Henley’s acclaimed River & Rowing Museum, known for its striking architecture and riverside setting, has been brought to market with CBRE appointed to handle the sale.
The landmark building, which closed to the public in September, is being offered for £3 million on a long leasehold basis and is expected to attract strong interest from cultural, educational and commercial investors.
Designed by David Chipperfield Architects and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998, the museum has long been recognised as one of the region’s most significant modern buildings.
Its design, inspired by traditional Oxfordshire barns and local boathouses, has earned multiple accolades, including the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust’s Best Building of the Year award.
The property spans two interconnected buildings measuring 25,062 sq ft and 10,627 sq ft, linked by a glass and concrete footbridge. Set beside Mill Meadows and overlooking the River Thames, the museum includes three gallery spaces, a café, an education centre, offices and 78 parking spaces.
Its position on one of Henley’s most scenic stretches adds significant appeal for potential buyers looking for a distinctive and versatile site.
Richard Venables, Senior Director at CBRE Oxford, said the sale presents an unusual opportunity to acquire a building of genuine architectural and cultural importance. “The sale of this iconic property opens a wealth of possibilities for its future use,” he said. “It is ideal for reuse as another gallery, or potentially other uses including education, recreation or offices, subject to planning.”
He added that the museum’s access to London and Heathrow strengthens its potential for international buyers, particularly those seeking a showcase space in a prestigious riverside location. With its award-winning pedigree and flexible layout, the site is expected to appeal to a broad range of visionary owners.
The Museum’s future use will be subject to planning, but CBRE notes that interest is already emerging from organisations considering cultural, community and commercial possibilities. As Henley continues to develop its cultural and leisure offering, the sale of the River & Rowing Museum marks a significant moment for the town and the future of one of its best-known modern landmarks.
