On Saturday 1st August, the Henley Town & Visitors’ Regatta returns to the Thames for a full day of racing, riverside picnicking, and relaxed summer atmosphere. Set along the historic Henley Reach—from Old Blades to the Hole in the Wall—the regatta will host 143 races across a three‑lane 800m course.

Unlike its more formal counterpart in July, this event is known for its welcoming vibe: no dress code, free entry to the Regatta Enclosure, and a chance to enjoy the sport up close. Families are warmly welcomed and food court offers plenty of choice if you don’t fancy packing a picnic with Camper Café, The Scoop Room with gelato & sorbets, Hardy Yard Pizza and Indie Rabble Brewing Company, and newcomer You Silly Sausage joining the line-up for the first time.

The enclosure entrance is a short walk from Henley town centre, just downstream from the bridge on the Berkshire bank. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy all the excitement of racing on this iconic stretch of river. Racing begins at 9am and continues into the early evening finishing at 7pm with the final race often deciding the Victor Ludorum, the club with the most wins across the day. Racing is in three divisions starting at around 9am, 12 noon and 4pm with 143 races in total, ranging from Senior Eights to Junior Single Sculls.

The event has attracted many competitors, ranging in age from 12 to 85 years old. Some have represented GB at international level, but for others this may be their first competitive rowing event.

Dr. Peter Ashby, this year’s Regatta President, said “I was delighted and honoured to be elected President of the Henley Town & Visitors’ Regatta for 2026 and am very much looking forward to watching the racing on 1st August. The committee have been working very hard to produce a wonderful regatta that I am sure competitors, supporters, subscribers and guests alike will all enjoy.”

Mark Davies, Regatta Chairman, said: “the Regatta Committee is delighted to welcome well over 600 competitors, many of whom will be racing 3-abreast up the river towards Henley. Such is the popularity of the sport, and our event in particular, that we had to restrict entries to fit in as many as we could – we’re sorry to those who didn’t make the cut, but we hope to welcome you next year. I’d like to express our appreciation for the support of Henley Town Council, Henley Royal Regatta – who allow us to use their wonderful lawn and other facilities – the ‘Friends’ of the Regatta (our subscribers, sponsors and advertisers) and, last but not least, the volunteers and officials that keep things running smoothly on the day. I’m proud to lead such a great team and we’re looking forward to seeing lots of people enjoying this historic town event both on the water and in the enclosure”.

Whether you’re cheering from the bank or soaking up the sunshine with friends, the Henley Town & Visitors’ Regatta is a celebration of rowing, community, and summer on the water. As always great Henley vibes!

For more information visit Henley Town & Visitors’ Regatta