River Events

Mess about in boats in South Oxfordshire

Approximately 47 miles of the Royal River Thames flows through South Oxfordshire and it has become the source of many events taking place on its gleaming waters.

Beautiful wooden boats gleaming with varnish, chrome and brass are on show during the Traditional Boat Race, in Henley, and there is no messing with these craft - some were part of the famous Dunkirk Little Ships.

This successful rally, now in its 29th year, offers not only boating people a chance to show off their lovingly cared for craft, but also offers the public a chance to see them in all their glory. One of the world's premier rowing events, The Henley Royal Regatta takes place in early July for five days of keen competition, enjoyed by thousands watching from the banks of the river.

The regatta has been an annual event since 1839, except for during the two world wars and is a major social event as well as a sporting occasion. The traditional length of the course is one mile 550 yards and, unlike other multi-lane, international regattas, operates a knock-out draw with only two boats in each heat. There are several levels of competition, culminating on finals day.

For those who couldn't make the Royal Regatta, Henley also plays host to the Henley Town and Visitors' Regatta, held at the end of July. It features 220 crews and scullers, who compete on part of the Royal Regatta course in a full day of eights, coxless fours, coxed fours, quadruple sculls, coxless pairs and double and single scull racing events.