regatta
 

Rowing Events

Major Regattas

The 50 days of major sporting events which now take place at Dorney Lake each year include three regattas traditionally held on the River Thames. The river is very busy and not always safe because of the fast-moving currents so these three significant events in the rowing calendar moved to Dorney Lake's still water and ideal facilities.

Wallingford Regatta

The first of the three big regattas is held in May. In 2005 Wallingford was the largest one-day regatta ever staged in the UK. It attracts some 700 crews from all over the UK and offers 65 trophies. All ability levels are covered, from under-14's to veterans and novices to GB Team members.

Visit the Wallingford Regatta website.

The Metropolitan Regatta

Charles Dickens and his son were the inspiration behind this historic event, which began in 1866. They were both involved with London rowing clubs. The Metropolitan is in early June and again attracts circa 700 crews and 2,000 UK athletes.

Visit the Metropolitan Regatta website.

Marlow Regatta

Marlow has a Town Regatta on the river but holds its International Regatta at Dorney Lake over two days in late June. It is a fore-runner to and last qualifying event for the famous Henley Regatta in July, with crews from many countries taking part. Marlow Regatta is even older than the Metropolitan, having been founded in 1855, and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2005.

Visit the Marlow Regatta website.