The History of Seacourt
A Rich Sporting Heritage
Seacourt’s story began in the early 1900s when the historic house and Real Tennis court were owned by local scientist, philanthropist and sporting enthusiast John F. Marshall. Over the decades, the estate witnessed periods of great activity, wartime service and eventual decline, with the buildings and court falling into disuse as priorities shifted during and after the Second World War.
Everything changed in 1966 when a small group of passionate Hayling Island residents came together to save one of the world’s few remaining Real Tennis courts from demolition. Their vision extended far beyond preserving a historic sporting venue. They set out to create a welcoming sports and social club that could be enjoyed by future generations.
Today, Seacourt is a thriving multi-sport club where heritage and community sit at its heart. While the historic Real Tennis court remains the centrepiece, members also enjoy a wide range of sporting facilities, alongside a vibrant bar and restaurant that make Seacourt as much a social destination as a sporting one.
1910
1911
1925
John Marshall establishes and funds the British Mosquito Institute within the grounds of Seacourt.
1936
Marshall is awarded a CBE in recognition of his pioneering work and research through the British Mosquito Institute.
1940
During the Second World War, Seacourt is used as a convalescence home for Naval Officers.
1942
The court suffers bomb damage, with significant damage to the roof and glass structure.
1943
1948
The Seacourt Estate is sold and divided, with the site becoming a private social club.
1954
The club becomes a limited company and the tennis facilities are leased to Rex Janson, Len Petley and Francis Snell.
1961
The club closes and is left vacant. Despite being offered for sale, no buyer is found.
1966
Seacourt Sports Club Limited is incorporated with the sole objective of saving the historic Real Tennis Court and surrounding buildings from demolition. Edward G. Danby, Francis I. Snell and John S. Parker lead the revival of Seacourt, forming a vibrant sports and social club. Extensive restoration works begin on both the court and clubhouse. On the 30th December the inaugural members' meeting is held, attended by 79 members, and Real Tennis returns to Seacourt.
1969
Two new squash courts are opened, broadening the club's sporting offer and helping secure its future.
1986–1993
Members invest in the club through the purchase of shares. The number of shareholders grows from three to thirty-three, providing funding for further development while maintaining Seacourt's unique not-for-profit ethos.
1990s
Additional land is acquired, enabling the construction of two floodlit outdoor tennis courts and reducing the club's reliance on bank borrowing.
1995
Seacourt has evolved into a multi-sport facility featuring:
- Real Tennis
- Rackets
- Indoor Lawn Tennis
- Badminton
- Multi-Use Sports Hall
- Four Squash Courts
- Two Floodlit Tennis Courts
- Fitness Centre
The club's not-for-profit approach receives recognition through local authority rate relief and partial VAT exemption.
1996
The company's Articles of Association are amended to permanently prohibit dividends, bonuses, share buy-backs or any other distribution of profits, ensuring all income is reinvested into the club.
2004
The Seacourt Charter is unanimously endorsed by members at the Annual General Meeting, reinforcing the club's commitment to preserving its facilities, heritage and community-focused values.
2023
A new members' gym is introduced alongside flexible monthly memberships, making the club more accessible while a programme of improvements enhances facilities throughout Seacourt.
2025
Major investment continues with a new sports hall floor, upgraded LED lighting for the Real Tennis Court and indoor Lawn Tennis Courts, together with further improvements across the club.
2026
An ongoing programme of refurbishment transforms the clubhouse with extensive redecoration, new internal doors and continued improvements to member facilities. A new website and refreshed brand identity are also launched, reflecting Seacourt's commitment to preserving its heritage while investing in its future.
Seacourt Today
More than a century after its opening, Seacourt remains one of the UK’s most unique sports clubs, combining historic sporting heritage with continually improving facilities and a thriving community of members. As a not-for-profit club, every improvement is made for the benefit of its members, ensuring Seacourt continues to evolve while preserving its remarkable history for future generations.