In 1971 John and Cherry Cook started the business trading as a chandlery shop on the River Thames at Platts Eyot near Hampton Court. In 1975 they bought Walton Marina at Walton on Thames and with their sons Michael and Geoffrey, developed the Walton Marine brand into one of the most successful boat sales operations on the River Thames.

As the management and control of the business transferred to the next generation, other marinas on the River Severn, River Wey and Norfolk Broads were added to the Group. New boat sales offices at Portishead, Wroxham and Brighton also helped to establish the Walton Marine brand throughout the UK with a reputation for great value and good service.

Walton Marine was aquired by Michael and Carol Cook in a management buyout during 2005, maintaining the family tradition whilst enabling the business to move ahead as one of the UK's leading boat retailers. Walton Marine is a UK distributor of Jeanneau Motor Boats, including Prestige Motor Yachts and the Leader, Cap Camarat, Merry Fisher and Rigiflex ranges. Walton Marine is also UK distributors for Sheerline Motor Cruisers and Sea Otter Narrow Boats.

In 2007 Chris Atterton and Paul Brackstone were appointed as Directors, responsible for Sales and Customer Support.