Craftsmanship Rooted in Heritage

Will Howard is a traditionally trained boatbuilder based in South Stoke, Oxfordshire, with over two decades of experience in the construction and restoration of classic wooden boats. His journey began in 2001, when he earned a City & Guilds certification in Boatbuilding from Falmouth, laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to traditional maritime craftsmanship.

Will refined his skills at two of the Thames’s most renowned boatyards — Peter Freebody & Co. and Henwood & Dean — where he worked on a wide range of heritage vessels. During his time at Henwood & Dean, he constructed a Thames skiff from English oak and sweet chestnut, guided by respected craftsmen John Cox and Colin Henwood. The boat, named Sweet Chestnut, earned Will national recognition in 2008 when he received the Young Preservationist Award from the Transport Trust, presented by Prince Michael of Kent.

In 2009, Will opened his own independent boatbuilding workshop. Since then, he has continued to specialise in the restoration of Thames skiffs, gigs, dinghies, and launches, using time-honoured techniques and materials to ensure every boat remains true to its origins.

Will also contributed to the construction of the Gloriana, the Royal Rowbarge built for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. He worked alongside master builder Mark Edwards on this prestigious project, which celebrates the rich pageantry of Britain’s river heritage.