Business in Henley - Henley Regatta

In the summer of 1829 the universities of Oxford and Cambridge held a boat race. After some deliberation, a straight stretch of the Thames in the town of Henley was selected and the race proved so popular it became an annual event. Although the university boat race was moved to a course closer to London, the Henley Regatta was inaugurated in 1839.

Then as now, the Regatta was a major social event. Prince Albert became the first royal patron in 1851, granting the right for the event to be known as the Henley Royal Regatta. Members of the current royal family frequently attend the races.

Evoking scenes reminiscent of an Edwardian garden party, straw-boater hats and striped blazers are a common sight and the river is alive with boats of all shapes and sizes. The regatta runs for 5 days, commencing 28th June, but for several weeks before and after the river around Henley is bursting with activity. With so many entries for events, many qualifying races are held during the run-up to the regatta itself.

So why not take a wander down to Henley in the next few days and take in the atmosphere. Henley is a charming historical riverside town full of character and featuring many old buildings untouched by time.

If you have any stories, pictures, or history to share about the Henley Royal Regatta please get in touch with us. We will be running a special feature on the event in a forthcoming issue of Business in Berkshire.