Henley is one of England’s beauty spots and the Henley Royal Regatta is one of the highlights of the social season. As well as a wonderful sporting event it is also a wonderful day out all on it’s own. The Pimms, the rowing, the hats. It smacks of old England in a quieter, more refined time. Henley is like teleporting to the past.
As well as the rowing you can have a wonderful lunch at the seafood restaurant, go to the exclusive Leander club, see some fireworks, go to Temple Island and go to one of the parties held later on. Be warned though – any dress not completely below the knee, or any men not wearing ties, will not be admitted to the Stewards enclosure. Also, bring cash and sun lotion.
Myself and my companion watched the rowing from the Stewards enclosure. Cheering on racers from as far and wide as Princeton and Japan. If you are into rowing you will be in heaven. The best of the best come to Henley. I had a great time. The Henley Regatta is class personified. I am also now a proud owner of a pink hippo. The Leander club mascot.
Other things to see:
The Fireworks -on Saturday night, starting at 10pm.
The Henley Festival. You could stay on and catch this if you are having fun.
The Regatta Ball – This is one of the social highlights and is in support of a charity each year. <http://www.cavendish-hospitality.co.uk/events/ data/ Henley_Regatta_Ball.html
Temple Island. Beautiful spot. http://hrr.co.uk/pdisp.php?pid=8
History
Henley Regatta was first held in 1839 and has been held annually ever since, except during the two World Wars. Originally staged by the Mayor and people of Henley as a public attraction with a fair and other amusements, the emphasis rapidly changed so that competitive amateur rowing became its main purpose.
The 1839 Regatta took place on a single afternoon but proved so popular with oarsmen that the racing lasted for two days from 1840. In 1886 the Regatta was extended to three days and to four in 1906. Since 1928 its increased popularity meant entries exceeded the permitted numbers in several events, and so Qualifying Races are now held in the week before the Regatta to reduce the number of entries to the permitted maximum. In 1986 the Regatta was extended to five days, with an increase in the maximum entry for certain events.
Royal Patronage
In 1851 H.R.H. Prince Albert became the Regatta’s first Royal Patron. Since the death of The Prince Consort, the reigning Monarch has always consented to become Patron. This patronage means the Regatta can be called Henley Royal Regatta.
During the course of its history, the Regatta has often been honoured by visits of members of the Royal Family, of which the most recent was that of H.R.H. The Princess Royal in 1999.
For tickets and more information. http://www.hrr.co.uk/pdisp.php?pid=5