Henley Royal Regatta – A Stylish Summer Event

The Henley Royal Regatta is an exciting and stylish boat-racing event held annually in Henley-on-Thames. Attended by thousands of spectators every year, it attracts competitors from all over the world. In 2024, it is being held from Tuesday 2nd July until Sunday 7th July.

History of The Henley Royal Regatta

Established in 1839, the regatta became known as The Henley Royal Regatta in 1851 when Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert became its first Royal Patron. It quickly established itself as a major summer event in the Victorian era and is even more popular today.

Boat crews of all ages from all over the world take part in six days of racing at the Henley Royal Regatta. The competition is ‘knock out’ style with two teams racing in each heat. Trophies are awarded in a number of different categories.

Location

You can watch the Henley Royal Regatta at various points along the River Thames as well as from aboard boats that run up and down the river. There are also more exclusive venues like the Steward’s Enclosure and the Regatta Enclosure to watch the action from. Across the river there is a private member’s club called Phyllis Court from which there is an excellent view of the racing. You can also see lots of pleasure boats (travelling in a separate lane from the racing) meandering along the Thames.

Style

Some of the places from where you can watch the Henley Royal Regatta, such as the Stewards Enclosure and Phyllis Court, have very strict traditional dress codes. Ladies must wear dresses or skirts with a hem below the knee and hats are encouraged. Gentlemen must wear suits, or chinos or flannels with blazers. Ties or cravats are obligatory. Many men also wear traditional Panama hats, giving the regatta a real vintage flavour.

The Regatta Experience

My family and I attend the Henley Royal Regatta at Phyllis Court. We generally go for at least one day every year, often taking friends along as guests. There’s plenty to see and do and it’s lots of fun cheering on the various teams that are racing. I love watching the private boats and launches sail up and down the river, their passengers getting a great view of the action. From canoes to yachts, the boats range from the gorgeous to the quirky. People watching and fashion spotting is also a popular pastime!

Food and Drink at the Henley Royal Regatta

Like so many of the events of the British summer season, food and drink play an important role in the celebrations at the regatta. You can hear champagne corks popping from very early in the morning, and well dressed ladies and gentlemen share pitchers of Pimms, a gin based cocktail served with fruit and mint.

There’s a break in the racing at both lunchtime and teatime. In the more formal venues, lunch is generally a three or four course affair. Afternoon tea is served only a few hours later so you definitely never feel hungry at the Henley Royal Regatta!

Whether you are a fan of boat racing or not, it’s hard not to be caught up in the atmosphere of this iconic event. Although the world is a very different place today than it was in 1839, for a few days each year The Henley Royal Regatta takes you back in time in style.

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