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First held in 1839 as a public attraction and amusement fair, the Henley Royal Regatta has since grown into one of the world’s most prestigious rowing events. A highlight of both the sporting and social calendar, there is always an electric atmosphere and wonderful sense of excitement.

HRH Prince Albert became the Regatta’s first Royal Patron in 1851 and the prestige and history of the event continues to attract crews and spectators from across the globe.

The town is incredibly busy for several weeks in the run up the event, with the buzz of anticipation beginning in mid-March when the first boat tents start to go up along the riverside.

The races themselves are some of the toughest to win – attracting rowers of every level from juniors through to international Olympians. For those who grew up here, taking part in the Regatta is often a fond – albeit exhausting – memory.

Competitors who are lucky enough to claim one of the top spots can also expect to rub shoulders with some sporting greats, with the likes of Sir Steve Redgrave, who also served as chairman of the Committee of Management in 2021, Dr Dame Katherine Grainger, Victoria Pendleton CBE, Sir Ben Ainsley, Sir Chris Hoy and Dame Kelly Holmes all on the illustrious list of recent prizegivers.

However the 183-year-old spirit of the Regatta celebrates much more than sport. At its heart is a sense of community.  

Requests for days off work are lodged months in advance and it provides the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends and meet some new faces. There is an excited hum of conversation and you can often spot the various crews milling around town in their different coloured blazers. With so many visitors, restaurateurs, café owners and retailers are also kept exceptionally busy.

If you’re new to the Regatta then the best piece of advice is to keep moving – there is a whole river bank to explore, full of bars, music and entertainment to enjoy. 

Of course regatta week isn’t the only reason to love Henley. House hunters are drawn here for its high quality housing, connectivity to London, excellent schooling, wide range of amenities and proximity to surrounding countryside.

But the event has been delivering a wonderful spectacle and important social occasion for generations. Long may it continue.

Further information

Contact Charlie Chavasse or Louis Byrne

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