Regattas on the River Thames
Fancy getting out on the River Thames for a fun day out? Why not spend the day at a Thames regatta?
With lots of different types of regatta taking place all along the river throughout the summer months, there's plenty to choose from!
Wallingford Regatta - 4 May
Why not take a trip down to the world-class Dorney Lake, near Windsor - home of the 2012 rowing and flat-water canoeing Olympic events! Wallingford regatta is an all day event with over 600 entries racing. Each race will contain 6/7 lanes of crew hoping to row the 2000 metres course to victory.
Dragon Boat Challenge, Pangbourne - 7 June
Why not enjoy the annual charity Dragon Boat Challenge, as part of the Pangbourne Summer Fete. Come along and watch crews of 17 to 20 people paddling a dragon boat, which is a large decorative canoe, along a course of 250 metres, racing against other teams. This fun charity event raises key funds for local organisations including Sue Ryder Care and Breast Cancer Campaign.
Marlow Town Regatta & Festival - 14-15 June
Marlow Regatta is one of the premier events in the British Rowing calendar, attracting competitors worldwide. It was first held in 1885, and is now an important social event. Now held in Higginson Park, the regatta also features dragon boat racing, a local festival, craft fair and evening firework finale as well as the rowing events. The town is bedecked with flags and bunting for the occasion, there is a large fun fair in the park adjoining the Regatta Enclosure and in the evening there is a magnificent firework display and a procession of illuminated boats on the river. Marlow Regatta is a splendid mid-summer day out for the whole family.
Henley Women's Regatta - 20-21 June
Why not enjoy a day out in Henley, watching the Henley Women's Regatta. Situated in Remenham Meadows, with views across the river of Temple Island; take a picnic and watch the action! You could even make a weekend of it and make use of the nearby camping facilities.
Marlow Regatta - 21-22 June
One of the top domestic regattas in the UK. Attracts many Henley Royal Regatta entrants both domestic and international.
Henley Royal Regatta - 2 July-5 July
Spend a quintessentially English day at the regatta, with its idyllic riverside setting besides Temple Island, situated a mile and a half downstream of the picturesque market town of Henley on Thames, it marks the start of the famous Henley Royal Regatta Course. Steeped in a tradition going back more than 150 years, Henley attracts Olympic and first class oarsmen from around the world. Why not sample the unique atmosphere of Henley Royal Regatta by visiting the Regatta Enclosure which is open to non-members. No formal dress code applies although many people enjoy entering into the spirit of the occasion!
Kingston Regatta - 12 July-13 July
Kingston Regatta was first raced on 1st and 2nd of June 1857 and celebrated it 150th year in 2007! Watch from the Kingston side from Charter Quay or the whole course from anywhere along the Riverside Walk and Queens Parade.A commentary will be transmitted across the river.
Goring & Streatley Regatta - 19 July
A great day out for all the family. Not only is is this regatta a premier rowing competition but it also offers a traditional mix of family events, including a funfair, craft tent, a range of stalls, places to eat, and of course a beer tent and lots of live music! 2008 attractions include Punch & Judy, a giant inflatable slide, Bird of Prey displays, a FunFair and Classic Cars... something for everyone!
Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta - 8-9 August
This is a local regatta, but each year friends, distant relatives, former residents and the plain interested come from all over Britain and distant corners of the globe to compete, meet friends and family and soak up the pleasure of simply mucking about in boats. An entrance fee is charged but why not bring a picnic and enjoy a whole day of river fun!
Cookham Regatta - 9 September
A fun regatta with land and waterside activities for all ages! Landside activities include archery, trampoline, bungee jumping, beat the goalie and children's rides. Lots of waterbased activities too - including dragon boat racing, canoe cats and the famous Cookham Challenge! Also includes beer and food tents, a riverside band and classic car displays!
For more great ideas for things to do on the River Thames, see our events pages!