royal air force yacht club hamble hamble le rice

Riverside House

Accommodation.

Hamble village, a centre of yachting on the south coast, has many links with the water; four marinas, three boatyards, sailing schools, chandleries, brokers, boat shares and much more.  The club itself was originally a Victorian house, updated and extended over the years, the bedrooms were refurbished in 2020.  Our accommodation is offered as room only, there are many options locally for breakfast, lunch and an evening meal.  Breakfast is available at Jennie’s from 08.00, by 09.00 the Beach Cafe will be open with river views.  There are also 4 pubs and a dozen or more restaurants or cafes so you wont go hungry or thirsty. We are within walking distance of all these and offer parking for residents.

This link provides details  of the local cafes, pubs/restaurants and other services. Advanced booking is recommended for many of these, especially at weekends and in the evenings.

There are many walks and places of interest in the area plus a ferry service across the Hamble to Warsash giving access to longer circular walks and cycle routes. The Royal Victoria Country Park was home to a military hospital built to deal with casualties from the Crimean war through to WWII, it is now an extensive green area with many walks and a museum in the original chapel recalling the history of the site.

Hamble has historic links with aviation with sites owned by Fairey, Folland & Avro amongst manufacturers. An air training school operated on the, now defunct, Hamble airfield up to the mid 80s.

We have 4 rooms available of which 3 can be booked by non-members, further details of the rooms are available down the page.  All rooms have the following

• Freeview TV
• Tea & coffee making facilities
• Clothes rack
• Free parking

For details of our current offers or to book a room you can

• Find us on booking.com
• Call us on 023 8045 2208
• Email office(I am sure you can figure out what goes here)rafyc.co.uk with your requirements

RAFYC members can use the online booking facility within the members area of the website.

Double En Suite

Double room (10.70m2) with view of the River Hamble. Room has a double bed and en suite with toilet, wash basin and shower.

Single Room

Single room (8.70m2) with view of the River Hamble. The room has a single bed and shared bathroom across the hall.

Large Twin En Suite

Large Twin room (14.70m2). Room has twin beds (which could be pushed together to form a double), en suite with toilet, wash basin and shower.

Large Double En Suite

Large double room (17.90m2). Room has a double bed and en suite with toilet, wash basin and shower.

Terms & Conditions:

• Members’ prices apply only if the member is occupying the room
• Rooms must be paid for at time of booking
• Guests must register at time of booking
• Cancellations less than 3 days ahead of occupancy will incur 100% cancellation fee if the room cannot be re-let
• Rooms will be available for occupancy from 14:00. Parking is free but cannot be reserved or guaranteed
• Guest can check-in with either the Office, until 17.00, or the Bar until closing time
• Guests will recieve a PIN enabling entry to car park and door. If arriving after the bar has closed the room key will be available in the room.
• Rooms should be vacated by 10:30
• Children welcome. If under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (no cots available).
• Guide dogs allowed.

Function Rooms

Located on the waterfront in the picturesque village of Hamble, the Royal Air Force Yacht Club can handle a broad range of events, including:  business meetings, training, community events, private parties and weddings.  The waterfront location provides a unique backdrop for events from formal weddings to informal BBQs using our river-side lawn.

To bring presentations to life we can offer a 120″ protector screen and HD protector along with traditional flip charts.

Spaces of All Sizes Available

The club has three spaces available to rent, the Riverside Room, Trophy Room and Restaurant, these spaces can be combined to create one large space if required.  In addition we have a large outside patio area and riverside lawn; The lawn allows for the erection of marquees, this can be arranged by the club.

All enquiries should be directed to our Bar and Events manager Sean Light who will guide you through what we can offer and send you further information.  You can use the form below to submit

your enquiry or contact Sean directly via email events(I am sure you can figure out what goes here)rafyc.co.uk or phone 023 8045 3278

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Hamble Classics comes to HRSC & RAFYC

Published 12:51 on 20 Jun 2022

Hamble Classics Regatta comes to HRSC & RAFYC

The 2022 Hamble Classics Regatta is to be co-hosted by Hamble River Sailing Club and the Royal Air Force Yacht Club on 10th-11th September, the seventh edition of this popular classic yacht event.

With HRSC's proven track record of race management and the RAFYC's great riverside location, next year's Hamble Classics will build on the active cooperation already established between the two clubs. Commodores Andy Valentine and Steph Merry commented: "Both our clubs are looking forward to hosting the Hamble Classics and celebrate the long history of yachting in the River Hamble with well run racing by HRSC and a warm welcome for visiting crews at the RAFYC."

This is the event's second visit to the RAFYC, first time was in 2019 with 56 yachts racing, when HRSC helped on the water with RIB and race team support. This time HRSC will be responsible for delivering all the race management including online results while the RAFYC will be the social home of the regatta for après sail and evening events - it was a popular venue with participants in 2019. Berthing for committee boats has been arranged in the RAFYC haven so the race team can get ashore easily to enjoy the après sail events.

Hamble Classics is organised by HRSC members Jonty Sherwill and Vicki Weston who began the event in 2016 having taken part in BCYC regattas on friend's yachts and entered Cockleshell in Cowes Classics from 2013-2015. This inspired them to start a Hamble based classic yacht event.

Attracting around 60 entries each year the event includes pre-1971 designed classic yachts, International Metre yachts, old gaffers, modern classics, 6-Metres, XODs and Dragons, and it's hoped that the recent upsurge in the Folkboat class will attract more boats back to Hamble.

Last updated 10:40 on 10 July 2023

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• A Brief History
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Hamble's Airfields

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Although Hamble has long been associated with aviation, it is not generally known that there were two airfields, one to the north and the other south of Hamble Lane.  This article has been written from notes prepared by Tony Sedgwick, who spoke to the History Society about the sites in April 2000.

HAMBLE'S AIRFIELDS

South:   In 1916, A V Roe purchased land in Hamble for the establishment of an aircraft factory, and what became known as the South airfield.  This area was bounded by Hamble Lane, Southampton Water, the gully presently behind Westfield Close, and the railway line running into what was the Admiralty Acceptance Depot, which is now part of the BP complex.  The factory building had a distinctive square tower, with a model airship on top which was used as a wind sock.  The site slopes steeply down to Southampton Water, as can be seen by looking along Ensign Way.  Land was also purchased in 1916 for the building of 24 houses for employees, in what is now Verdon Avenue.  Production and test flying started late in 1917, building the successful AVRO 504, and continued until early 1919.

Main production was then moved to Manchester and, on a very much reduced staff, Hamble became an experimental aircraft department.  The airfield was becoming unsuitable for some aircraft so, in 1926, land was purchased to the north of Verdon Avenue, extending to the Portsmouth - Southampton railway line.  This site became known as the North airfield.

To use this facility aircraft were either taxied or towed from the factory, crossing Hamble Lane by the present BP entrance, and following the railway line to the airfield.  Large aircraft in Hamble Lane provided an awesome sight, particularly when one became 'stuck'.  This practice continued until about 1950, after the Berlin Airlift, when aircraft were no longer dealt with in the old AVRO factory.

By 1932 the factory was mainly on a 'care and maintenance' system, and had become the responsibility of Air Service Training Ltd (AST.)  It accommodated AST's amphibians and floatplanes, which used the slipway onto Southampton Water.  The site was also used for test flying Cierva autogiros, and assembly of some AVRO aircraft such as Tutors for AST's use.  Floatplanes, built in Manchester for the RAF at Calshot, also used the facility.  Towards the end of 1933, all flying ceased from the South airfield. Some of the land was purchased by Shell Mex and BP, who also bought more after the war.

In 1934 two large extensions to the factory were built for the production of a new airliner, the Armstrong Whitworth Ensign, a four engined aircraft with a wingspan of 123 feet.  The first flew on January 24th 1938, and production continued until 28th October 1941, when 14 had been built. Some of these returned to Hamble in the 1940's to be fitted with more powerful engines.   Article about the 'Ensign'.

On 20th March 1940 the prototype twin-engined bomber, the A.W Albemarle built in the old AVRO factory, flew for the first time from the North airfield.  During the war years Spitfires were repaired at the factory, whilst several other types were modified including Hampdens, Lancasters, Flying Fortress Mitchells, Mustangs, Mosquitoes and Yorks.

In January 1943, a Flying Fortress taxiing under it's own power, became stuck in the mud after crossing Hamble Lane, blocking the road.  It was an embarrassing situation, because the aircraft had just been fitted with secret submarine-detecting equipment, which looked like small telegraph poles beneath the wings.

During the early 1950's, more workshops and stores were added behind the original factory, whilst a new toolroom and machine shop were added at the front, to cater for the production of assemblies for Meteor and, later, Javelin aircraft.  Most aircraft work ceased in 1959, and the factory became part of the Petter organisation.  The slipway was used by Aquila Airways beween 1949 and 1958, for the overhaul of their flying boats. The small hangar built for them was still in existence in April 2000.

North:   As mentioned earlier, the North airfield was opened in 1926. Early users apart from AVRO, were Fairey Aviation, Simmonds Aircraft (who built aircraft at the Rolling Mills, Weston,) Vickers/Supermarine of Woolston, and the Resident Hampshire Aeroplane Club.  The existing facilities built for the Admiralty Acceptance Depot, were used as workshops etc, the entrance to the site being approximately where Aquila Way is today.

On Sunday 15th May 1927, the Hampshire Air Pageant was held at Hamble, with many new types being on show.  A cover of a surviving programme shows that the South airfield was used for joyriding, while the North airfield was classed as the Pageant Aerodrome, something that the Civil Aviation Authority would not countenance today, especially since there was an 'air race' in the programme!  The '5 shilling' enclosure was along the north side of the BP railway line, the '2/6d' behind Hampton Cottages, and the 'shilling' enclosure was to the north, alongside the Southern Railway cutting.     (Video of Air Pageant)

In January 1931, the Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft Reserve School moved to Hamble from Whitley, near Coventry, and became Air Service Training Ltd. A hangar was built at the eastern end of Verdon Avenue, the entrance being in Sydney Avenue.  This building became 'B' Hangar, circa 1939.  The school opened on 14th April 1931, the first aircraft fleet consisting of an AVRO 504, three DH 9J's, two AWA Siskins, three AWA Atlas Trainers, and two AVRO Tutors. One of the Siskins only lasted until 8th June 1931, when it was involved in a fatal accident at Sarisbury Green.

The following is a list of events recorded in the AST diary:-

May1931  - Most of the old Admiralty Barracks modified for classrooms.

22nd August 1932  - Amy Johnson joined for a blind-flying course. She was not the first lady pupil, that being the Hon Mrs Victor Bruce in October 1931.

October 1932  - The Hampshire Aeroplane Club left for Eastleigh.

31st December 1933  - The training fleet had grown to 26 aircraft which included 9 AVRO Cadets, 2 Cutty Sark Amphibians, and one AVRO 5 (G-ABBY.)

1st October 1934  - The whole AVRO estate in Hamble, including 24 houses in Verdon Avenue, was transferred to Air Service Training.

31st December 1935  - There were 35 aircraft on charge, whilst another hangar (C) next to the main hangar, was completed during March 1936.

April 1937  - The original hangar was extended by another two bays.

December 1937  - The Royal Air Force Reserve, which hitherto had a couple of aircraft based at Hamble, became No.3 Elementary and Reserve Flying Training School (the 'Reserve' was dropped on the outbreak of war) and received a number of new 'Modern' aircraft.  Thus on 31st December, the AST fleet consisted of 37 aircraft, and the No.3 ERFTS had 14.

June 1939  - A new large hangar (A) was completed.  This was later to become part of the Glover Webb industrial site, and was demolished in the late 1990's for the building of Spitfire Way.  It was mainly intended for No.3 ERFTS, which had rapidly expanded and even included some Fairey Battles - although it has been said that they were never used at Hamble.

September 1939  -  All AST aircraft lost their black fuselage/silver wing colours, and were camouflaged with yellow undersides.  Whilst the single-engined aircraft came under the wing of No.3 ERFTS, the multi-engined types became part of No.11 Air Observers Navigation School, and No.1 Supplementary Wireless School. Later in the month a contract was signed with the Air Ministry for repairs to Spitfires, the first being on 5th October 1939.

12th July 1940  -  At noon, 4 bombs were dropped on Hamble.  Three fell in fields in School Lane, and one in the garden of 'Myrtles.'

20th July 1940  -  All three flying schools left Hamble, No.3 ERFTS and 11 AONS moving to Watchfield, and No.1 Supplementary Wireless School being disbanded.  The airfield was now used only by aircraft undergoing repair, and a detachment of Blackburn Sharks from HMS Raven at Eastleigh, which arrived earlier in the year.

23rd November 1940  - During a heavy raid on Southampton, a number of incendiary bombs fell onto the airfield, just after 6 pm. A week later, parachute flares were seen descending onto the airfield.

28th December 1940  - A Handley Page bomber recently repaired at AST, took off on an air test and crashed into Shell Mex and BP. The pilot, Fl.Lt. Pegg was slightly hurt.

9th January 1941  - Nine aircraft attacked Southampton, 3 attacked Portsmouth, and over 200 attacked Manchester.  A large bomb was dropped in the middle of Hamble airfield but, like the earlier incendiaries and flares, it caused no damage to buildings.

5th April 1941  - Bofor AA guns were positioned around Hamble, on the shores of Southampton Water, the airfield and round Satchell Lane.

11th April 1941  - Four parachute mines fell in the area during a raid on Southampton.  One, which fortunately did not explode, landed among the storage tanks at Shell Mex.

14th June 1941  - Another hangar (F) was completed at Badnam Copse. 'Wessex Manor' now stands on the site.

30th August 1941  - Follands/Fairey had a flight hangar built at the west end of Verdon Avenue.  It is still there, much modified, on the industrial estate.

20th September 1941  - Air Transport Auxiliary Female Pilots Pool established in new hangar, south of Hampton Cottages.

5th November 1941  - Part of Fleet Air Arm Squadron 780 arrived from Lee-on-Solent for training.  They used canvas hangars situated above Hampton Houses and the Southern Railway.  They used Shark and Proctor aircraft.

23rd March 1942  - The first of 115 Spitfire to Seafire conversions made it's maiden flight.

30th August 1942  - Fleet Air Arm Squadron 780 left.

22nd December 1942  - 'G' hangar opened on what was later the Glover Webb site - now a housing estate.

30th December 1942  - First Boeing Flying Fortress arrived for modifications.

9th February 1943  - Man fatally injured in a machine gun attack by a JU88 on 'A' Hangar. He lived in Verdon Avenue and was the only person killed in Hamble by enemy action.

13th October 1943  - Airfield AA Gunners left.

15th August 1945  - ATA left. Airfield full of Spitfires to be scrapped.

20th October 1945  - 'F' Hangar closed.

1st August 1946  - At 2.35pm the first post-war training flight took place from 'A' Hangar.  'B' Hangar was being used by the 'Aircraft Division' for the conversion of York Transports into airliners for BOAC.

27th September  - Southampton University Air Squadron started flying.

31st December 1950  - Aircraft fleets now consisted of :- AST - 20 single engined + 6 twin engined. Royal Navy - 5 AVRO Ansons. RAFVR - 19 Chipmunks + 3 AVRO Ansons.  SUAS - 5 Chipmunks.

10th September 1952  - The first of three Dakota aircraft arrived as trainers.

29th April 1960  - Air Service Training closed, the name, some staff and aircraft were moved to Perth. Airfield now owned by the College of Air Training.  'A' and 'G' Hangars were leased to Strachans Bus Body Builders, and later to Glover Webb.  Flying aircraft now used 'B' and 'C' Hangars.  The former ATA and Fairey's Hangars were used for aircraft storage, the former later housing RAF units. 

16th February 1984  - Receiver called in. Aircraft and equipment was sold by auction in May, and the field was sold to Southern Ideal Homes.  Ron Souch and the Antique Aircraft Company, established in May 1983, remained, together with Carill Aviation.  Ron had the doubtful pleasure of flying the last aircraft out of Hamble on 6th April 1986. It is recorded as a Piper Cub G-AMPF.

Tony Sedgwick 1999   (photographs from Tony Sedgwick's collection) 

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Flying high with the Hamble Classics Regatta at the Royal Air Force YC

The fourth Hamble Classics Regatta hosted this year by the Royal Air Force Yacht Club (20-22 September) was a major success with 68 entries across 10 classes. For the first time the event was extended to three days to launch ‘Big Classic Friday’, with extra racing for the larger yachts.

With continued support from Spinlock, Performance Rigging, Classic Marine, the Sandeman Yacht Company, Ratsey & Lapthorn Sailmakers, The Elephant Boatyard, A-Plan Marine Insurance and Joseph Perrier Champagne, this year OneSails GBR and Blakes & Taylors were also welcomed to the Hamble Classics Regatta.

The entry list of 68 included 23 yachts new to the event and as usual some yachts cruised to the Hamble from outside the Solent, although one that was heading out from Poole on Friday morning decided that the building south-easterly breeze would be a bit too much of a test for this cherished possession.

From Miles Atherton’s 16 foot gaffer Mouse up to Irvine Laidlaw’s 52 foot Oui Fling the Hamble Classics fleet was as diverse as ever, and maintaining the strong traditional flavour of the event the big gaffers Jolie Brise and Thalia thundered round the course on Saturday and were joined by Aeolus and Peggy Bawn on Sunday in the gentler conditions.

With a packed social programme starting with tea and homemade cakes on Friday afternoon laid on by members of the RAFYC and others, the Welcome Reception in the evening included the prize giving for the ‘Big Classic Friday’ racing sponsored by OneSails GBR, and the boisterous conditions in the Solent on Friday had ensured exciting racing for the Spirit Yachts in the IRC Zero class and the larger classics in the IRC1 class.

With more wind than forecast, up to 25 knots, the big waves and clear visibility were perfect for the event’s official photographer Rick Tomlinson to get some great images.

Principal Race Officer Peter Bateson set courses from Quinnell buoy for Friday’s racing but was further east on Saturday for the whole Red Line fleet, while the Green Line for the smaller boats under the direction of Stephen Parry was near the race buoy named after a much-missed sailor, John Fisher.

After a bumpy ride round the course on Saturday, the gentle flood tide delivered the small boat fleet in a lighter breeze up the river to finish off Hamble River Sailing Club, and despite a few gear breakages all the yacht crews and the race teams arrived back at the RAFYC lawn for the ever-popular Elephant Boatyard rum party with broad smiles after an exciting day. Prizes by Spinlock were awarded for the best performances of the day in each class.

At the Hamble Classics Dinner in the evening, supported by Joseph Perrier champagne, where over 200 guests enjoyed excellent food, David Aisher and Bill Blain were invited to  give their contrasting accounts about sailing aboard David’s ‘Thalia’, with Bill’s typically irreverent humour seeming to resonate with a majority of the audience! The evening continued with another addition to the Hamble Classics programme, a live band and dancing.

On Sunday morning after an early rain squall the wind eased to a near flat calm, but at midday a new breeze from the south arrived to conclude the closely contested points series before tea and prizes back at the club.

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You are here > Home > Explore > Villages > Hamble Le Rice

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Hamble (le-Rice) on the outskirts of Southampton , lies along the River Hamble and is a quaint, picturesque village, boasting stunning views, period cottages, pretty walks and thriving wildlife. 

Formerly used as an aircraft training centre during the Second World War, Hamble is now a yachting Mecca, drawing in people from around the world for races, events and celebrations. After Cowes on the Isle of Wight, it is seen as one of the most important yachting destinations in the UK. It also featured in the TV series Howards' Way.

During the summer months you will find the village bustling with people enjoying the fine selection of local pubs and restaurants . For a small village, there is a great selection of eateries which specialise in locally produced food, ale and specialist rum. Year round, people travel to eat in the village and it has fast become an alternative to city centre dining. From Thai and Italian cuisine to bistro and traditional pub fare, there is plenty of choice for visitors.  

There is a ferry which operates daily from the village to neighbouring Warsash, allowing people to easily cross between these two locations. Warsash is also an important maritime location. It is home to Southampton Solent University's 'Maritime Academy' providing training for merchant seamen, a sailing club, restaurants, pubs and shops.

Nearby attractions to Hamble include Manor Farm Country Park , Netley Abbey and Royal Victoria Country Park which are a short drive away.  

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Hamble-le-Rice: The idyllic Hampshire marina perfect for a little getaway near Southampton and Portsmouth

The village has a lot to offer visitors

• 05:00, 12 JUN 2021

Just outside Southampton is a quaint village with stunning views, period cottages, pretty walks and thriving wildlife.

Hamble-le-Rice was used as an aircraft training centre during the Second World War , but it is now a picturesque marina that draws visitors from around the world .

The village is perfect for anyone who loves water sports; there are plenty of yachting and sailing opportunities for anyone who visits.

Find out how you can get more news from HampshireLive straight to your inbox HERE

According to Visit Hampshire, Hamble is one of the most important yachting destinations in the UK.

It is the birthplace of Dani Rowe, a former road and track cyclist who is a three-times world champion and Olympic gold medallist in the women's team pursuit. A gold postbox in the village celebrates her achievements.

The village boasts plenty of pubs and restaurants, offering cuisine such as Thai, Italian, and good pub food.

Nearby attractions include Manor Farm Country Park, Netley Abbey and Royal Victoria Country Park. The village is also a short drive from the cities of Southampton and Portsmouth .

The village takes its name from the River Hamble

Hamble has a more traditional English village aesthetic

Hamble Point attracts competitive sailors from around the globe

Hamble-le-Rice is home to three main marinas.

Hamble Honesty Stall - Bringing flowers, herbs and veggie plants to Hamble high street

Gold post box celebrating the achievements cyclist Dani Rowe .

Hamble Common is a popular destination to meet friends

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Yacht Charter Hamble-le-Rice

On a sheltered river close to the popular yachting destination of the Solent and Southampton Water, Hamble is one of the biggest sailing towns in the UK. With five major marinas and several mooring buoy chains hosting impressive luxury yachts, top end racing machines and family tubs alike on a river that is only navigable for a few miles, there are probably more yachts moored per square metre on the Hamble River than anywhere else in the country!

Bavaria 35 Cruiser

• Build year : 1992
• Length : 37 ft
• Boat type : Sailing Yacht

• Length : 39 ft

• Build year : 2016
• Length : 29 ft

• Build year : 2001
• Length : 40 ft

• Build year : 2002
• Length : 33 ft

• Build year : 2006

Build your own unique trip!

Hallberg Rassy 36

• Build year : 1994
• Length : 35 ft
• Genoa type : Furling

Ballistic 6.5m

• Build year : 2014
• Length : 21 ft
• Boat type : Motor Boat & RIB

Sun Odyssey 37

• Build year : 2003

• Build year : 1985
• Length : 32 ft

Its ideal geographical position has long been recognised by seafarers. Recent archaeology has shown that Royal Navy and merchant ships were built on the River Hamble for several hundred years. Today, the Warsash Maritime Academy sits just across from Hamble Point Marina where merchant sailors continue to train to this day. If you're planning an ocean crossing on a yacht you may well end up doing the essential deep sea survival skills training there too.

There is a large yachting industry in Hamble village with boatyards, chandlers and of course restaurants, pubs and decent local shops to serve the boating community. Around 10 minutes from the M27 and links to the SW and SE of the UK - and not far from Swanwick railway station - Hamble also has excellent land connections by road and train.

Explore Hamble le Rice By Renting A Yacht

Whether on a powerboat or sailing yacht doing a skippered yacht charter or bareboat charter there is a lot to explore without travelling far from the marinas of Hamble village.

Thanks to its easy access to the Southampton Water and the Solent, many sailors on a Hamble le Rice yacht charterdon't travel far from Hamble village, preferring to engage in sailing events around the buoys and Isle of Wight. Cowes Week is the high point of the calendar in the first week of August.

For those who want to explore the area, the historic Royal Navy Portsmouth Harbour is just a few hours' sailing away. While watching the Royal Navy fleet of today you can also see HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the Mary Rose at the Historic Royal Navy Dockyard too. Cowes, Gosport and Southampton also are bustling with yachties through the sailing season.

There are quieter places too - Lymington to the west and Chichester to the east are also popular sailing bases but both sat in important tidal ecosystems where you can observe all sorts of marine and birdlife.

How To Get To Hamble le Rice

Hamble le Rice is just a 10 minute drive from the M27 with fast road links to London, the South West and South East.

Swanwick railway station is a 15 minute taxi ride away, sitting on the branch line linking Portsmouth Harbour with Southampton. Southampton Central train station is a half hour taxi ride away.

For those travelling by air, you can fly to Southampton City Airport, or from the London airports take a train to Southampton via Waterloo.

Marinas In Hamble le Rice

There are five major marinas on the River Hamble, ranging from big commercial affairs to family-run businesses. These are listed in geographical order from the mouth of the Hamble River.

Hamble Point Marina:

Berth Characteristics:

Max Length 30m (98 Feet)

Max Draught 10m (32 Feet)

List additional services: Shore power, water, laundry, WiFi, restaurants and bars, supermarket (nearby), boatyard, boathoist, chandlery, fuel

Port Hamble Marina:

Max Length 24m (78 Feet)

List additional services: Shore power, water, laundry, WiFi, restaurants, shops and bars, boatyard, chandlery. Fuel is available at nearby Port Hamble or Hythe.

Mercury Yacht Harbour:

Max Draught 4.5m (14.7 Feet)

List additional services: Shore power, water, laundry, WiFi, showers, restaurant, shop and bars, boat ramp chandlery, boat hoist. Fuel is available at nearby Port Hamble or Hythe.

Universal Marina:

List additional services: Shore power, water, laundry, WiFi, restaurants, shops and bars, boatyard, boat hoist, chandlery. Fuel is available at nearby Port Hamble or Hythe.

Deacons Marina:

Max Length 13.7m (45 Feet)

Max Draught 2.25m (7 Feet)

List additional services: Shore power, water, laundry, WiFi, boatyard, boat hoist, chandlery. Fuel is available at nearby Port Hamble or Hythe.

Suggested Sailing Routes From Hamble le Rice

Over a seven or 14 day yacht charter you can enjoy the best of the Solent, mixing some of the best yachting towns in the UK with quiet evenings at a mooring buoy watching the world go by.

Hamble and the Solent - 7 days: Over a seven day Hamble le Rice yacht charter you can happily stay within Southampton Water and the Solent and take in the fantastic boating and sailing nightlife. As a first port of call you can head to Portsmouth Harbor and explore the attractions of the Royal Navy city. Chichester Harbour is a laid back next evening, taking in the ecology of this beautiful bay. Cross to the Isle of Wight and Cowes for a taste of the home of UK yachting. You can then have another quiet evening on the Beaulieu River and then head for another fun evening in Lymington. Southampton's Ocean Village for a fun night out and then back to Hamble.

14 days - Solent and Jurassic Coast: This can be dependent on the winds for the next two weeks. If the winds are from the west then why not beat down past the Needles to Poole Harbour with its buzzing nightlife and great ecology? Perhaps spend an evening moored off nearby Swanage on the Jurassic Coast too. Coming back, pause for a quieter evening in Christchurch and then have a day's sailing on the Solent before another evening in the New Forest on the Beaulieu River. You could then go around the west of the Isle of Wight and take in towns like Yarmouth Harbourand Bembridge to the east of the island. Chichester is another favoured destination with its salt marshes, and then Portsmouth Harbor. Cowes and its famous yachting pubs such as the Duke of York shouldn't be missed, before a nice cruise down to Hythe on Southampton Water. These are suggestions - on a bareboat or skippered charter the choice is yours.

Best Times To Hire A Yacht In Hamble le Rice

The sailing season runs from late March to mid September on the UK South Coast, though you will see hardier types afloat throughout the year. There can be gales at any time of year, with Westerlies especially fierce through the Solent. In the peak boat rental season of July and August it can still be fun sailing, though the bars and marinas can be expensive and full.

Cowes Week? You will need to book well in advance, both marinas and mooring buoy moorings as well as restaurants and other hospitality! A motor boat with a well stocked fridge can be a good way to make new friends during this event too...

Sailing Weather In Hamble le Rice

April and May: Westerlies prevail but you will often find warm days with brisk sailing conditions of a F4-5. Gales will come through earlier in the year, funnelling through the Solent and hitting F10-12 in gusts. This is Britain - expect rain!

June-August: In June there will be southerly and westerly gales at times but these tend to die out in July and August with the Azores High moving north and providing settled conditions and light easterlies. Expect temperatures in the high 20s C range with the odd few days at 30C plus. As ever, keep your oilies to hand as even in the height of summer things can change.

September-October: Grey skies and gales start to return. While often in the high teens Celsius in September with some great sailing conditions, the westerly procession of lows start coming up the English Channel and things can get a little uncomfortable by early October.

The main points to consider are what is your budget, have you got the necessary sailing experience and qualifications to manage the boat if it's not going to have a skipper, whom you are taking sailing, where exactly you wish to go and what will the weather be like on the proposed dates of your trip.

There are five major marinas on the Hamble River, all within reach of Hamble village. These are Hamble Point Marina, Port Hamble, Mercury Yacht Harbour, Universal Marina and Deacons Yacht Harbour. There are other moorings and berths available on the river too.

May to August is best for sailing, though the first week of August is Cowes Week and launches the peak sailing season locally where it can be difficult to get a berth or table at a restaurant! If on a private charter you should benefit from a berth and access to the MDL Marina chain of yacht harbours and moorings.

You will typically pay 50% up front on booking the yacht hire and the balance on arrival. You will either pay a security deposit with your credit card on departure or can get insurance covering damage in advance. In some cases (such as the recent Covid situation) charter companies may be more flexible but this depends on the individual charter companies themselves.

If you are at sea and in danger, call MAYDAY on VHF Ch16 or ring the coast guard on your phone if you have reception. If you have a mechanical fault and can make it to or are on a mooring you will be able to phone a help line number given by the boat charter company.

You should consider do you have the experience to handle the yacht charter or boat hire before you book and where do you want to go along with what the weather will be like. Bring warm weather and cool weather clothing if it looks like the weather can be cool as well as warm and remember at sea it can be cool on most evenings.

If you want to sail without a skipper then you will need relevant qualifications like RYA Day Skipper/International Certificate of Competence (ICC)/ASA 104 Bareboat certificate or the US Sailing Certificate. For small 'day boats' or if you choose to have a skippered on board your yacht charter you typically don't require licences.

We are confident that our prices are the most competitive and transparent in the market.

We won't charge any booking fees when you make a booking with us.

We have the highest number of verified and vetted boats available on the market.

Similar Locations

Hamble-le-Rice

Hamble-le-Rice , commonly known as Hamble , is a village and civil parish in the Borough of Eastleigh in Hampshire, England. It is best known for being an aircraft training centre during the Second World War and is a popular yachting location. The village and the River Hamble also featured in the 1980s BBC television series Howards' Way . The village centre, known as The Square, Hamble, has a more traditional English village aesthetic which differentiates it from the small industrial areas (mostly marinas) close to the village.

Industrial areas

The river and environment, fuel terminal, transport links, sport and leisure, external links.

Hamble-le-Rice is on the south coast of England, south-east of Southampton at the tip of the Hamble peninsula, bounded by Netley , Butlocks Heath , Bursledon , Southampton Water and the River Hamble .

Although previously known as "Hamble", "Hamelea", "Hammel", and "Ham-en-le-Rice", the village's official name is now Hamble-le-Rice. [1] The name "Hamble" is still in common usage. On 27 April 1992, the civil parish was renamed from "Hamble" to "Hamble-le-Rice". [2] To the south of the village, lies the site of an Iron Age promontory hillfort , Hamble Common Camp .

The place-name 'Hamble-le-Rice' is first attested in a French document of 1147, where it appears as Amle . It appears as Hamele in 1270, and as hamele in the Rys in 1404. The village takes its name from the River Hamble ; the Rice is the Old English hrīs meaning 'brushwood' or perhaps by extension 'scrubland', and of which the modern form is the word rushes . Thus a modern form of the name might be 'Hamble-in-the-Rushes'. [3]

The area is home to the remains of a defensive structure dating to the reign of King Henry VIII . [4] Known as St Andrew's Castle , investigations suggest that it consisted of a rectangular structure fronted by a gun platform with a semi-circular layout. [4] The structure was protected by a moat, with a two gun platforms mounted on the counterscarp . [4] The structure was intact as late as the early 17th century. [5]

Hamble-le-Rice was the home of a major flying school before and during the Second World War for aircraft including the Spitfire , the Lancaster and the Wellington . Over 500 aircraft were built there including the prototype Armstrong Whitworth Ensign and Albemarle , which were first flown in 1938 and 1940. In 1960 the Air Corporations Joint Training Scheme (later, British Airways) fixed wing and helicopter training school was established there, as the Hamble College of Air Training . The south airfield has long since disappeared [6] and the north airfield has been partially developed as housing; the remainder is overgrown and owned by property developers Persimmon .

The aviation industry retains a large interest in Hamble-le-Rice, with the Hamble Aerostructures factory, now a subsidiary of the Spanish company Aernnova, in Kings Avenue. [7]

The following units were here at some point: [8]

• No. 1 Basic Air Navigation School RAF
• No. 2 Air Experience Flight RAF
• No. 3 Elementary and Reserve Flying Training School RAF
• No. 3 Elementary Flying Training School RAF
• No. 11 Air Observers Navigation School RAF
• No. 14 Reserve Flying School RAF
• No. 15 Ferry Pilots Pool ATA
• 780 Naval Air Squadron
• No. 2706 Squadron RAF Regiment
• Southampton University Air Squadron

Hamble-le-Rice is home to three main marinas offering marine services and goods to the boating industry. In addition, large factories and smaller industrial units off Ensign Way and Hamble Lane are used by CooperVision , BP, Hoyer, GE and others. Some of these businesses are 24-hour operations with large numbers of staff who commute to work. The fuel terminal itself is not visible from the B3397: there was extensive development in the early 2000s when wartime hangars were demolished and high-density housing built next to the road, near the terminal. The Royal Yachting Association (RYA), a non-profit organisation, has its offices in Hamble.

There are two schools in Hamble-Le-Rice:

• Hamble Primary School
• Hamble School , a secondary school (formerly Hamble Community Sports College) [9]

Hamble-le-Rice is a boating mecca: the nearby River Hamble is often packed with marine traffic and, during the summer, the whole village is crowded with people out enjoying the water, local restaurants and many pubs. The village and its river is one of the many locations that made up the fictional village of Tarrant, in the BBC television series Howards' Way , shown weekly on BBC One in the late 1980s.

Hamble-le-Rice is home to a common , a variety of estuary wildlife, and other scenic walks.

Hamble fuel terminal was opened by Shell in 1924, whilst BP was still afloat using a converted passenger liner as a fuel tender. In 1930 the two companies formed a joint venture and BP moved to Hamble. This partnership was dissolved in 1976, with the Hamble terminal passing to BP. [10] A 2016 attempt to sell off the terminal was unsuccessful; however Hoyer now handles BPs bulk fuel road transport operation. [11]

A pipeline runs under Southampton Water from the Fawley oil refinery which supplies the BP fuel terminal at Hamble. This fuel terminal was used to supply PLUTO , during the invasion of Europe in World War II . [12] The PLUTO pipeline started at Shanklin on the Isle of Wight and was supplied by ship from Hamble. [12] The jetty at this fuel terminal was extended in 1943/44 so that more ships could be loaded simultaneously. [12]

Fuel is transported from this depot both day and night, in particular early mornings (between 3am and 6am), by 44 tonne road tankers along the B3397, as well as by pipeline to major industry and airports. Markers showing the route of the pipeline can be seen at various points in neighbouring Botley . A now disused branch line ran from the terminal to the Portsmouth to Southampton railway. This is now the scenic Strawberry Trail.

The Hamble Peninsula has one main access road, the B3397, Hamble Lane, which is approximately 3   mi (4.8   km) long and goes straight through the village from the junction with the A27 Portsmouth road. Hamble Lane has had numerous incidences of traffic accidents. [13] and at its intersection with Portsmouth Road an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) exists to monitor nitrogen dioxide traffic pollutants. [14] The B3397 is a very high volume road; a traffic count in March 2003 showed around 16,300 vehicles in a 24-hour period. [13] Daily traffic congestion and slow moving queues are due to the large number of inbound and outbound commuters, on staggered work shifts. Many businesses supply local companies as BP Oil UK, CooperVision and GE Aviation and minor industry and services within the four marinas and industrial areas off Ensign Way. Road oil and petrol tankers form the bulk of the heavy goods vehicles along this road, numbering a few hundred vehicle movements per day. [ citation needed ] The village is served by Hamble railway station , about two miles from the centre of the village, which provides hourly services to both Southampton Central and Portsmouth Harbour . [15] It is also linked by a pedestrian ferry to Warsash , and has frequent bus services to Southampton - the '15' provided by Bluestar , [16] via Netley and Woolston. There is also a service, the '49h', to Hedge End , provided by Stagecoach South . [17]

• Sir Sam Fay , General manager of the Great Central Railway 1902–22, was born here in 1856. [18]
• Michael S. Robinson , naval art historian, was born here in 1910.
• Boat builder W.S. Luke and his sons Albert Luke and Walter Luke came here in the late 1880s to establish their boatyard.
• Ronnie and Reggie Kray had a cottage in the Village] [19]
• Tracy Edwards , Skipper of Maiden , the first all-female round-the-world crew, lived in the village for a while.
• Robert Greenhalgh , Volvo Ocean Race veteran and four times sailing world champion, lived in the village
• Dani Rowe , née King - cyclist (Women's Team Pursuit World Champion 2011, 2012 and 2013; Women's Team Pursuit Gold Medallist at London 2012 ) the cycle path into the village is named in her honour and she is the reason for the village post box being painted gold by the Royal Mail to commemorate her success at the home olympics.
• Basil Lubbock , sailor, soldier and historian lived in the village.

The main sporting activity in the village is sailing with it being the centre of UK offshore sailing and a hub for inshore yacht and keelboat racing. This is partly due to its mainland location and closeness to Cowes on the Isle of Wight. There are three sailing clubs within the village:

• Hamble River Sailing Club was founded in 1919 [20]
• RAF Yacht Club open its Hamble club house in 1952 [21]
• Royal Southern Yacht Club opened in the 1930s, with the club one of the oldest in the world being established in 1837 [22]

In addition Warsash Sailing Club based on the other side of the river also contributes significantly to sailing activities within the village hosting the annual spring series championship and other regattas. Together with offshore racing primarily organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club and the Junior Offshore Group .

The Royal Yachting Association , the sport's national governing body, has had its headquarters in the village since the early 2000s, when it moved from Eastleigh to a new purpose-built building.

The village has two non-league football clubs; Folland Sports and Hamble Club , both of which play in the Wessex League .

A speedway training track used to operate at Hamble in the early 1950s. There is now a sports college in Hamble to provide recreation and leisure.

Related Research Articles

The River Hamble is located in south Hampshire, England. It rises near Bishop's Waltham and flows for 10.1 km (6.3 mi) through Botley, Bursledon, and Lower Swanwick before entering Southampton Water between Hamble Common and Warsash.

Southampton Airport is an international airport located in both Eastleigh and Southampton, Hampshire, in the United Kingdom. The airport is located 3.5 nautical miles north-north-east of central Southampton. The southern tip of the runway lies within the Southampton unitary authority boundary with most of the airport, including all of the terminal buildings, within the Borough of Eastleigh.

The Borough of Eastleigh is a local government district with borough status in Hampshire, England. It is named after its main town of Eastleigh, where the council is based. The borough also contains the town of Hedge End along with several villages, many of which form part of the South Hampshire urban area.

Southampton Water is a tidal estuary north of the Solent and the Isle of Wight in England. The city of Southampton lies at its most northerly point, where the estuaries of the River Test and River Itchen meet. Along its salt marsh-fringed western shores lie the New Forest villages of Dibden, Hythe and Fawley, and the Fawley Refinery. On the slightly steeper eastern shore are the Southampton suburb of Weston, the villages of Netley and Hamble-le-Rice, and the Royal Victoria Country Park. To the south, Southampton Water enters the Solent between Calshot Spit and Hill Head.

Moi Air Base , formerly known as RAF Eastleigh and Eastleigh Airport is a military airport located to the east of Nairobi, in the Eastleigh suburb. The airport is used by the Kenya Air Force. Additionally, the airfield is the home of the East African School of Aviation run by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, which was established at the airport in 1954 as the DCA training school. The airport is also used to train Kenyan Air Cadets.

The West Coastway line is a railway line in England linking the conurbations of Brighton/Hove/Littlehampton and Southampton/Portsmouth, with 1.3 million people between them. It has short southward branches to Littlehampton and Bognor Regis, which offer direct services to and from London.

The Solent Way is a 60-mile (97 km) long-distance footpath in Hampshire, southern England. With the exception of a few inland diversions, the path follows the coast of the Solent, the sea strait that separates the mainland from the Isle of Wight. The Solent Way forms part of the E9 European Coastal Path, which runs for 5000 km (3125 miles) from Cape St Vincent in Portugal to Narva-Jõesuu in Estonia.

Bursledon is a village on the River Hamble in Hampshire, England. It is located within the borough of Eastleigh. Close to the city of Southampton, Bursledon has a railway station, a marina, dockyards and the Bursledon Windmill. Nearby villages include Swanwick, Hamble-le-Rice, Netley and Sarisbury Green.

Netley , officially referred to as Netley Abbey , is a village on the south coast of Hampshire, England. It is situated to the south-east of the city of Southampton, and flanked on one side by the ruins of Netley Abbey and on the other by the Royal Victoria Country Park.

Warsash is a village in southern Hampshire, England, situated at the mouth of the River Hamble, west of the area known as Locks Heath and south of Sarisbury. Boating plays an important part in the village's economy, and the village has a sailing club. It is also home to the Warsash Maritime Academy, part of Southampton Solent University, which provides training for Merchant Navy Officers from around the world.

Eastleigh is a constituency represented in the House of Commons of the UK Parliament since 2019 by Paul Holmes, a Conservative.

Hamble railway station is an unstaffed station near the village of Hamble-le-Rice, England. It is served by a 2-track electrified line which joins the Southampton to London main line, in the direction of Southampton at St Denys in Southampton, and joins the line running east from Eastleigh at Fareham.

Micheldever railway station , in the village of Micheldever Station, serves Micheldever and the surrounding area in Hampshire, England. It is a flint building with an added veranda. The station is on the South West Main Line, 58 miles 4 chains (93.4 km) down the line from London Waterloo towards Southampton and is managed by South Western Railway. The station is near the A303 Basingstoke to Andover road approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) from the village.

The RS Vareo is a modern, single-handed sailing dinghy raced throughout the UK at both club and national level. The RS Vareo is a hiking singlehander with an asymmetric spinnaker.

The Southampton–Fareham line is a railway line in England, along the south coast of Hampshire. As a through line it came late in British Railway history, traversing unpromising coastal terrain. The first part from Portswood, near Southampton, to Netley was opened in 1866, prompted by the establishment of the Royal Victoria Hospital at Netley, which had been established for the care of wounded soldiers.

The Port of Southampton is a passenger and cargo port in the central part of the south coast of England. The modern era in the history of the Port of Southampton began when the first dock was inaugurated in 1843. After the Port of Felixstowe, Southampton is the second largest container terminal in UK, with a handled traffic of 1.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). It also handles cruise ships, roll-on roll-off, dry bulk, and liquid bulk.

Luke & Co was a boatbuilding firm, established in 1829 in Limehouse near London. They moved to Oakbank at Itchen Ferry in 1868, and in 1895, settled at Hamble. At Hamble, they designed and built yachts of all sizes, as well as providing all kinds of services to the yachts visiting or having a berth at the river. The river Hamble was a popular place to "lay up" yachts for the winter.

HMS Tormentor was a shore establishment of the British Royal Navy during World War II, based near Warsash, on the River Hamble.

Hamble Valley is a proposed constituency of the House of Commons in the UK Parliament. Further to the completion of the 2023 Periodic Review of Westminster constituencies, it will first be contested at the next general election.

• ↑ "Southampton Registration District" . UKBMD . Retrieved 7 November 2021 .
• ↑ Eilert Ekwall , The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Place-names , p. 214
• 1 2 3 Osborne, Mike (2011). Defending Hampshire The Military Landscape from Prehistory to the Present . The History Press. p.   57. ISBN   9780752459868 .
• ↑ Osborne, Mike (2011). Defending Hampshire The Military Landscape from Prehistory to the Present . The History Press. pp.   58–59. ISBN   9780752459868 .
• ↑ "Hamble Airfields" . Archived from the original on 6 June 2012.
• ↑ "AERNNOVA TO ACQUIRE GE AVIATION'S HAMBLE BUSINESS UNIT" . Aernnova Aerospace S.A. 4 October 2019.
• ↑ "Hamble" . Airfields of Britain Conservation Trust . Retrieved 22 April 2020 .
• ↑ "The Hamble School – Achieving Excellence Together" . Thehambleschool.co.uk . Retrieved 20 April 2018 .
• ↑ "BP in Hamble" . Hamble.net . Retrieved 14 August 2009 .
• ↑ Martin, Ben (20 July 2016). "BP eyes sell-off of UK oil terminals and pipeline stake" . The Daily Telegraph . Retrieved 20 April 2018 .
• 1 2 3 Hampshire and D-Day. Martin Doughty. 1994. ISBN   1-85741-047-5
• 1 2 "Hamble Lane Speed Limit Review" (PDF) . Meetings.eastleigh.gov.uk . August 2003 . Retrieved 24 January 2022 .
• ↑ "Archived copy" . Archived from the original on 21 October 2016 . Retrieved 21 October 2016 . {{ cite web }} : CS1 maint: archived copy as title ( link )
• ↑ "Archived copy" (PDF) . Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 July 2014 . Retrieved 11 July 2014 . {{ cite web }} : CS1 maint: archived copy as title ( link )
• ↑ "15 - Southampton - Woolston - Netley - Hamble" .
• ↑ "49h - Hedge End Park - Hamble Square via Bursledon Tesco, Netley" .
• ↑ van der Merwe, Pieter (15 January 2000). "Obituary – Michael Robinson 1910 – 1999" . Erithyachtclub.org.uk . Archived from the original on 4 December 2010. .
• ↑ McNeil, Paul (27 June 2016). "The Krays on The Hamble Peninsula" . Timedetectives.blog . Retrieved 24 January 2022 .
• ↑ "Hamble River Sailing Club   : Club History" . Hrsc.org.uk .
• ↑ "RAFYC Home - The Royal Air Force Yacht Club" . Rafyc.org.uk .
• ↑ "Royal Southern Yacht Club   : Club History" . Royal-southern.co.uk . Retrieved 24 January 2022 .
• Hamble-le-Rice Parish Council Website
• Walks in the Hamble Valley

Moscow Muled

How to clean and care for copper mugs: the definitive guide.

Oct 15, 2019

In this post, we reveal the complete guide to cleaning and caring for your copper mugs. From how to maximize the lifespan of your mugs to how to ensure that they maintain that brilliant copper shine, we have you covered. Let's get started!

Introduction

Since the creation of the Moscow Mule in the 1940's, copper mugs have never been more popular than they are today. This refreshing cocktail made of lime juice, vodka, and ginger beer is traditionally served over ice in an iconic copper mule mug. No matter what beverage you choose to serve in it, the appeal of the copper mug is hard to deny. As bars, restaurants and at-home use of copper mugs continues to grow in popularity, it is important to know how to properly care for and clean copper. This article will tell you everything you need to know, including:

Why is Cleaning Copper Mugs Important?

Why does copper tarnish.

• How Do you Clean Copper Mugs?
• 5 Easy & Natural Ways to Remove Copper Tarnish
• Is it Safe to Drink from Copper Mugs?

Are Copper Mugs Dishwasher Safe?

• Lined Versus Unlined Copper Mugs
• The Benefits of Using Copper Mugs
• Essential Tips to Care for your Copper Mugs

Like any drinking vessel, copper cups, mugs, water bottles and tumblers need to be washed after every use. Copper does require specific care and maintenance, however it's quite simple and easy to learn and do.

First and foremost, copper mugs should be cleaned properly for health and safety reasons. Whether at a restaurant or at home, you don't want anyone getting sick from drinking from an unwashed cup.

There is something compelling about the warm glow of polished copper. A huge part of the appeal and popularity of cocktails like the Moscow Mule is the unique aesthetic of the copper mug. This metal will tarnish naturally with time and use, so cleaning it properly can be essential to keeping it shiny, and fully experiencing the many benefits of drinking from a copper mug.

Like iron developing rust, copper will naturally tarnish  over time with exposure to humidity and other elements found in the air. Copper's blue-green tarnish, known as patina, can be either useful or annoying, depending on its intended use.

The patina actually serves as a protective layer for the copper beneath, and can be useful in outdoor applications such as roofing or pipes.  However, when it comes to mugs or cups, we want the copper to shine as warmly as possible, so it is essential to know about preventative care and maintenance.

Don't worry, it's super easy to do, and incredibly satisfying to restore and polish your tarnished copper mugs.

How Do You Clean Copper Mugs?

Cleaning copper mugs is like cleaning most anything, except that it MUST be washed by hand. In other words, never put them in the dishwasher, ever. Take 30 seconds to gently wash them by hand with a soft sponge, soap and warm water.

For most people at home, this shouldn't be a problem. But some high-volume bars or restaurants might not be able to dedicate the time needed for proper care. This is one reason a business may prefer a tin-lined  or lacquered copper cup that may need less polishing, although they too should still be washed by hand.

The most important part of cleaning your copper mug is drying it!

Residual water in the slightest amount can lead to tarnishing, so experts highly recommend you dry your copper mug twice, with two different soft towels or cloths until all moisture is removed.  This extra step only takes a few moments, and will go a long way towards the durability and cleanliness of your copper mule mugs.

If you want your copper mug to look nice, dry it twice!

5 Easy and Natural Ways to Remove Copper Tarnish

Owning a copper mug comes with the added responsibility of some occasional, simple maintenance. When your favorite mug starts to turn green, here are some easy solutions to restore its natural shine!

Lemon or Limes and Salt

This simple method is quick and easy, and ideal for bars or restaurants that may have an abundance of lemons on hand. Simply pour some table or sea salt onto a dish, and cut a fresh lemon or lime into 1/4th slices. Dip the fruit slice into the salt, and scrub the copper mug with slow, methodical circles inside and out. The change should be almost instantaneous, and when the tarnish has been removed, wash under warm or cool water, and dry thoroughly.

Vinegar and Salt

Mix one cup of vinegar, one tablespoon of salt, and five cups of water. Pour the solution into a saucepan, place your mug into the saucepan, and bring it to a boil. After a few minutes, the tarnish will have disappeared, and you can remove the mug with tongs, rinse it in cold water, and dry thoroughly with two soft dish towels.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

Create a paste with three parts baking soda, and one part vinegar. Use a sponge to apply it to the mug with small circular motions and let it sit for about 10 minutes in order for the magic to happen. After that, simply rinse and dry until all moisture has been removed.

Harness the power of tomatoes to clean your tarnished copper mug! Apply the ketchup using a soft sponge or toothbrush, always rubbing in small circles. Then let it stand for 30 minutes. Remove the ketchup in the same way you applied it (a specially designated tarnish-toothbrush can be a highly effective tool for getting into those hard to reach places). Finally, rinse with water, and dry thoroughly with two soft towels.

Tamarind Paste

Tamarind is a tropical fruit, popular in Caribbean, African and Indian cuisine. It contains tartaric acid, which helps remove tarnish from brass and copper. If this is something you have access to, simply add water to create a paste, and rub it onto the copper with a soft sponge or cloth.  After a few minutes, rinse off the paste, and dry completely.

Metal Polish

Although the natural methods listed above are all equally effective, inexpensive and safe, another option is to use a tarnish remover or metal polish. Popular brands like Brasso are great for polishing many different kinds of metals, but the main ingredients may be less than desirable (rubbing alcohol, ammonia, mineral spirits and silica powder). Chances are you can easily find most of the ingredients for cleaning copper mugs in your pantry, and can avoid buying a product full of harsh chemicals.

Is It Safe To Drink From Copper Mugs?

Yes, it is safe to drink from copper mugs , despite click-bait headlines, myths and legislation that may suggest otherwise. True, when using 100% pure copper mugs it is possible that trace amounts of copper could be ingested. However, this can be mitigated by using stainless-steel plated copper mugs.

Copper is an essential part of human biology, and is necessary for regulating metabolic systems and vital organs. Copper deficiency can lead to arthritis, osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases and colon cancer.

Not only do our bodies need copper, we also have systems in place to naturally deal with any excess copper. Verified scientific studies have shown copper can do impressive things.

• Copper and Iron work together to form red blood cells.
• Copper helps maintain collagen, and along with other antioxidants, can reduce signs of aging.
• Copper helps absorb excess iron in the liver.
• Copper improves brain and nerve cell synaptic responses.
• Copper aids in digestion and helps with ulcers and inflammation.

Copper toxicity is quite rare and, according to the World Health Organization , "There is a greater risk of health effects from a deficiency of copper intake than excessive copper intake."

The FDA guidelines do not recommend using copper for any food or beverage purposes, solely because of the extra care needed to maintain it, and applies exclusively to commercial operations, with varying local and state regulations.

This is meant to protect consumers from improperly cleaned or exposed copper mugs and cookware in bars and restaurants, and does not apply to home use. The FDA suggests the public learn about proper care and maintenance before using copper mugs, but scientists have debunked the claim that a Moscow Mule can give you copper poisoning.

When using 100% pure copper mugs and a liquid with a pH below 6.0 (like lime juice), and that liquid remains in the mug for an extended period of time, there is a chance you could consume amounts of copper. This is the reason why it is generally a good idea to use copper mugs lined with stainless-steel .

No, never! All copper cookware, utensils or mugs should be washed by hand, no exceptions. Dishwashers typically use harsh detergent, powerful water sprays and high heat that can seriously harm your copper mug both inside and out.

Dishwashers can lead to dents, tarnishing, and flaking or cracking. So take 30 seconds to do right by your copper mugs, and wash and dry them by hand!

Lines Versus Unlined Copper Mugs

When purchasing a copper mug, there are three basic options - 100% copper, tin-lined, and copper plated.

Copper is a great thermal conductor, and will keep your drink colder for longer (or hotter for longer, depending on the drinks). This is a big part of what makes the Moscow Mule an attractive summer beverage, and why copper mugs are great for cocktails in general.

Lined copper mugs  (usually with zinc, stainless-steel  or tin) can be a great choice. The double lining improves their durability, and can give them a great look. Unlike pure copper, lined copper mugs also offer additional health benefits by avoiding reactions between acids in your drink and pure copper.

Both lined and unlined copper mugs must be washed by hand and both will develop a patina over time. Lined mugs might take slightly less time to polish, because you only need worry about the outside. However, now that you know how to clean tarnished copper mugs, it's nothing you can't handle.

Essential Tips To Care For Your Copper Mugs

Copper mugs are stylish and good for your health. They keep your cold drinks chilled, and your hot drinks steaming. Copper mugs have been used for thousands of years for water purification and health benefits, and have made a triumphant rise in popularity since the invention of the Moscow Mule in the 1940's.

Whatever you choose to put in your copper mug, remember these three simple tips:

• When serving drinks, don't let them sit for more than 4 hours. Drink up!
• After each use, take the time to hand-wash your copper mugs with soap and water, and use TWO TOWELS to dry them thoroughly.
• When your copper mug begins to tarnish, use one of the five easy and natural ways listed above to polish it to perfection.

Thank you for taking the time to become an expert on using, cleaning and caring for copper mugs. Cheers!

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  Why You Should Only Use Moscow Mule Copper Mugs With Stainless Steel Lining and  Which Moscow Mule Copper Mugs Are Best?

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Moscow Mule Copper Mug

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