We’re delighted you’re here. The Henry Cook Centre is the home of Waterside Bethel — a warm, inclusive non‑denominational church of around 20 people, alongside a long‑standing charitable hub rooted in Gosport history and community support.
Whether local or just visiting, The Henry Cook Centre has a warm welcome waiting for you.
Join our friendly Christian group. We meet twice a month for worship, prayer, and support, united by God’s definition of love.
Serving Gosport since 1853, our volunteer-run charity provides food, support, and faith-based help for those in need.
Versatile hall for up to 70, available for community and faith-based events, with kitchen, seating, Guest Wi-Fi, and accessibility.
Feeling ragged? stressed? detached? Or simply wired differently? If you’re anything like us (and we consider ourselves “normal”, whatever that means!), then you belong here.
We may seem an ‘odd’ or ‘dysfunctional’ bunch at times — services have interruptions, and many of us feel marginalised. Yet the only thing that unites us is Jesus, and God’s love expressed through the Holy Spirit. That Love works in us, comforts us, and guides us—one day at a time, individually and together.
We welcome all: believers, seekers, doubters — and those not yet believing — to join us for prayer, worship, discussion, praise, and spiritual exploration.
The Waterside Support Group (formerly Waterside Bethel members) continue to meet every two weeks on Sundays, whilst awaiting an appointment of a new Pastor
Dates and times are confirmed by our Voluntary Serving Team.
Subject to change without notice
Opening Times:
1st & 15th February: 2pm – 4pm
1st, 15th & 29th March: 2pm – 4pm
12th & 26th April: 2pm – 4pm
10th & 24th May: 2pm – 4pm
You’re welcome to come along, whether it’s your first time in church or just your first time in a while. There’s no pressure to speak, pray aloud, or do anything you’re uncomfortable with. Just come as you are.
Founded in 1853, “Cook’s Bethel” (otherwise Seaman’s Bethel) was subjoined prior to the Charity Commission formation and is therefore not linked. Our registered charity began as a spiritual and practical refuge for mariners and their families. Over nearly 200 years, the charity merged with the Ragged School and Boys’ Home, and maintains historic links to John Pounds of Portsmouth. In 1969, the building was presented to the charity and, in 2018, renamed The Henry Cook Centre to honour its founder’s legacy.
Our mission remains clear: to help the poor and needy of Gosport. We do this through acts of faith, food provision, workshops, drop-in sessions, and spiritual support. Today, the charity is operated solely by dedicated volunteers who work together to keep Henry Cook’s original mission alive.
Visit the About Henry Cook page or join us for an open day to learn more about Henry Cook’s vision and where it continues today.
The hall measures approximately 10.5 metres by 6 metres and can accommodate up to 70 people standing or 28 seated around small tables. The space is carpeted, heated by gas central heating, and lit with LED strip lights. A large presentation wall is suitable for projection and display.
It is furnished with seven metal folding tables and around 40 chairs. There are five additional long folding tables and a designated refreshment table. The small kitchen includes wall units, mugs, and two kettles. The hall has two toilets, one of which is wheelchair accessible.
Guest Wi-Fi and a wheeled projector table are available to support meetings and events. Public liability insurance of up to £5 million is in place, with certificates on display. One parking bay is reserved for a blue badge holder/infirm, though parking is managed on a permit basis and is not guaranteed. Please note, we generally do not accommodate private parties.
From Monday to Friday, the centre welcomes charities and community groups whose activities align with our governing principles. At weekends, the hall is reserved for faith-based and Christian-led purposes to uphold the charitable aims, including events organised through Churches Together in Gosport and similar groups.
To enquire about hiring the space, email contact@thehenrycookcentre.org or visit our Hall Management page.
We believe that every family has a story, and ours is rooted in service and compassion. Donations enable us to continue offering meals, clothes, support sessions, and workshops to those in need. Whether through a financial contribution or giving your time, your support helps us keep this historic charity alive, thriving and helps to advance God’s Kingdom here on earth, in partnership with The Holy Spirit.
You can donate online, visit during an open day, or scan the QR code in the centre to learn more.
We are a registered charity (243256), with a historic legacy tied to Portsmouth’s Ragged School movement and Gosport’s faith community. Our governance supports both religious and charitable work, and our entire operation is run by unpaid volunteers.
The Henry Cook Centre is more than a building. It’s a Christian faith-inspired, historic space committed to meeting the needs of the community. We offer accessible, affordable facilities for charitable and Christian-aligned activities, and a supportive environment for people of all backgrounds.
Whether you’re seeking connection, a place to serve, or simply somewhere to belong—you are welcome here.
