Pimms with the Brits- Henley Royal Regatta

Have you every worn tails while watching an outdoor opera? Indulged in strawberries and cream while queuing at Wimbledon? Or, spotted the Queen at Royal Ascot? These are among the most famous images conjured up when one thinks of this glorious time of year quite simply referred to by those in the know as the ‘Season.’

Should you want to experience first-hand (for free) one of the many events featured during this social Season then I highly recommend Henley Royal Regatta (‘HRR’). There could be fewer sports more British than rowing and HRR is, without a doubt, the ultimate event in any rowers’ international calendar. It draws the very top talent from around the world from secondary school boys and girls through to Olympians (representing their rowing club rather than flying their home country’s flag).

You read correctly I did say free! Entry to HRR which takes place on the on a stretch of the Thames running through the quaint town of Henley is free. You can picnic and spectate from the river bank along the 2.11km course. The last 250-500km is ticketed and consists of two enclosures: the Regatta and Stewards’ enclosures. Tickets can still be purchased for the Regatta Enclosure however, Stewards’ Enclosure tickets are highly coveted and can only be purchased in advance through a member of Henley. The dress code within these enclosures is quite specific and very traditional (meaning below the knee skirts or dresses for women and shirt, tie and jacket for men). Many men can be seen in bold striped blazers worn with great pride as they represent their rowing club, each club having their own bespoke rowing blazer.

Rest easy, for if stripy blazers and formal dresses are not your thing, there is no dress code for the stretch of river open to the public. You will see young and old dressed up and dressed down sipping Pimms and enjoying picnics along the river bank. Wellington boots are de rigour if the weather does not cooperate. This holds true in the enclosures as well.

The races start on Wednesday 28th June and run through the 2nd July. Every race category operates as a knock out therefore each boat will race on day one and only proceed to each subsequent day only if it wins that days race.

Henley is easy to get to by train or car. For directions, tickets (should you want to enter the Regatta enclosure) and parking information follow this link: https://www.hrr.co.uk/

Don’t miss this fantastic event of the Season.