Henley Royal Regatta

The Henley Royal Regatta is old. The event predates its royal patronage, so some of the traditionalists refer to it simply as The Henley. It’s been run in an official and organized capacity every year since 1839, and since 1851, when Prince Albert became the first royal patron, every monarch since has offered their patronage.

In March of 1839 at a public meeting in Henley Town Hall, it was proclaimed by Captain Edmund Gardinar that due to, “the lively interested which had been manifested” in rowing in the Henley Reach, “and the great influx of visitors on such occasions,” it would be advantageous to organize the affair.

The first regatta was held that year – a one day race – and was so popular it grew to two the next year, and steadily after that to its current size.

Present day, the Henley commences at 9am on Wednesday and races run through to Sunday afternoon, creating a crowded, hospitable and attractive atmosphere on the River Thames.