Needham Market Lake was created in the early 1970’s when sand and gravel was excavated to make the A45 which became the A14 on completion of the A1 to M1 Link Road. Also created at the same time were the fishing lakes along the A14 between Needham Market and Ipswich.
The land was privately owned and the landlady allowed model boating, canoeing and sail-boarding, this came to a halt when the land was purchased by Mid Suffolk district Council. As established prior users the Gipping valley Model Boat Club successfully challenged the decision in court and won our case to continue sailing our model boats on the lake, a unique and sole privilege we enjoy to this day.
Since that day the club has constructed a launching Platform to enable members to get closer to the water when launching our boats, placed a small container near Coddenham road to house a ‘rescue boat’, used tp retrieve broken down models and a fixed bench near our landing stage.
Predominately made of men past retirement age, we welcome younger members, under18’s must be accompanied by an adult.
Our organized sailing days are Wednesday afternoons from 12 noon to 5 pm, and Sunday Mornings from 7am to Noon.

Annual membership fees commencing 1st January is £35 and members joining after 1st of July pay £20.