With Government funding, we are working with UK Docks to renovate a derelict Grade II listed building in the heart of Royal Clarence Yard. 

The ‘Rum Store’ is a key part of the jigsaw of our waterfront and restoring it will create new employment space and a new leisure destination for visitors.

Next steps

Initial proposals for conservation work on the Rum Store have been published, with a view to a full planning application for the proposals coming forward before Christmas 2025.

The History of the Rum Store

This 18th Century store house was established by a private brewery and eventually evolved into one of the three major victualling yards within Great Britain. 

Between 1828 and 1832, the site began serving the Royal Navy. While the building is commonly known as the Rum Store, it was also used to store beer and variety of dry goods such as sugar as well as rum. However, beer required large areas on board ships didn’t keep in hot weather – so rum became the preferred option for rations.

During Queen Victoria’s reign, a new private Royal Railway station was built nearby to allow her to travel between London and Osborne House on the Isle of Wight more easily. 

In 1940 Royal Clarence Yard was bombed, and the Rum Store’s roof and contents went up in flames. After this the use of Royal Clarence Yard by the Navy declined and the site was finally decommissioned in 1991. 

Information:

Jamaica Road, Victoria Quay, Royal Clarence Yard, PO12 1AX