Forty Years of Rye Watersports: A Family Affair
From a small windsurfing school established in 1986 to the thriving watersports centre we know today, this is the story of one lake, one family and four decades of life on the water. We were delighted to be invited to share the story of Rye Watersports as part of the 2026 Rye Arts Festival.Founder Maggie Meadowcroft was joined by her four children, Georgie, Rosie, Beth and Tom, for a warm and lively evening reflecting on how the business began, the adventures and challenges of its early years, and the many ways in which family life and working life have always been closely intertwined. With Graeme Foster expertly guiding the conversation, the evening was filled with photographs, memories, laughter and stories spanning 40 years.
Where it all began
The story started in 1986, at the height of the windsurfing boom, when Maggie established Rye Windsurfing on a lake created from a former gravel pit near Camber Sands. What began as a small local windsurfing school gradually grew into something much bigger. In the early days, the centre operated from a caravan and Maggie transported boards and equipment herself, while raising four children who quickly became part of life at the lake. Over the years, sailing and a wider range of watersports were introduced and Rye Windsurfing became Rye Watersports.
Growing up with the lake
For Georgie, Rosie, Beth and Tom, the lake was not simply their mother’s workplace. It was also their playground, their summer holiday destination and an important part of family life. Each of Maggie’s children has followed a different path, but the creativity, independence and entrepreneurial spirit that shaped the original business can still be seen throughout the family. Today, Rosie manages Rye Watersports, Beth supports the office and co-founded the Hoolie Café with Rosie, Georgie is a successful local artist and Tom runs the Rye-based lifestyle brand Flogo.
Rye Watersports today
The business has continued to grow and evolve while retaining the friendly, welcoming atmosphere on which it was founded. Today, the lake introduces children, families, school groups and adults to sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, wingfoiling, open water swimming and the Aquapark. For many visitors, it is where they experience the excitement of getting onto the water for the very first time. The centre is also home to a much wider community of instructors, lifeguards, café staff, young assistants, regular swimmers and returning families who all help bring the lake to life.
The next generation
Another generation is now becoming part of the Rye Watersports story too. Maggie has 12 grandchildren and all but the three youngest have already gained watersports qualifications. Forty years after it began, Rye Watersports remains a place where people can learn new skills, build confidence, enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories. Most importantly, it remains very much a family affair.
Forty years. One lake. Three generations.
With thanks to Rye Arts Festival for inviting us to share our story, and to KT Bruce for the lovely feature following the event. You can read the original Rye Arts Festival post on Facebook.
