Henley Royal Regatta
A completely unique event is the only way I can describe this. It is the highlight of the rowing calendar and one of the most highly anticipated events in the social season within the UK. Spanning across 6 days, the Henley Royal Regatta was first held in 1839 and has been held annually ever since, with the exception of the years affected by the two World Wars and the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year was my first time ever attending. I didn’t know what to expect from it and to be quite transparent, I don't know much about the sport. But why on earth should that stop me and I saw it as an opportunity to learn something new. Henley-on-Thames is just an hour from London Paddington train station.
It’s a charming town in Oxfordshire that offers beautiful scenery and history, and well worth having a look around after the competition that day finishes. There is also the Henley Festival that usually takes place the week after the Regatta, another event worth adding to your social season.
Ok let’s not beat around the bush, the Henley Royal Regatta is a club and you’re either in it or not. That doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy yourself as an observer, but you will be acutely aware of your outsider status. If you are someone who is self-conscious of this, I wouldn’t recommend it. But if you’re like me and prefer being an outsider, you will enjoy the traditional event for what it is. Once you have watched enough the races, walk down along the riverbank, and stop by the many options of bars and street food. The Barn Bar is a hot favourite and offers a festival atmosphere - don’t skip it!
So you decide to go one year yourself - what are the key things you need to know about Henley.
Enclosures
There are two ‘Enclosures’ (Stewards and Regatta) which are the viewing areas for watching the races. You really do need to buy a ticket to see the race, as the Regatta owns most of the riverbank and parking area on the Oxfordshire side (and some of it on the opposite Buckinghamshire side).
The Stewards’ Enclosure
The regatta is managed by a self-elected organisational body known as the Stewards. This enclosure is based on the riverbank closest to the finish line. It is for the use of the Stewards and their guests. Occasionally, there are tickets made available to outside of the 55 stewards and their guests, but don’t hold your breath.
The dress code within the Stewards’ enclosure is enforced. Suits or blazer and flannel trousers for men and below-the-knee dresses, no trousers, culottes or divided skirts for women. Whilst hats are not mandatory, the womens’ hats are one of the biggest fashion statements that can be made at such an event. The ladies go all out and why not? It’s a great excuse to wear a statement piece.
The Regatta Enclosure
Open to non-members. Athletes who are taking part and their supporters often watch from here. Members of the public can buy a ticket to the Regatta Enclosure. Tickets do tend to sell out fairly quickly, especially for the Saturday event, so if you’re planning to visit over the weekend, I’d recommend purchasing tickets early.
There is no dress code for the Regatta Enclosure, but people usually dress up as well.
I was in the Regatta Enclosure and one thing you will feel here is the club and membership mentality. Rowing is an elite event and it’s made known the separation between those who are part of the club and those who are not. That’s not to say anybody is outwardly unwelcoming, but you will hardly interact with anyone outside of the enclosure you are in. The Stewards Enclosure gains better viewing of the race and more comfortable seating. The Regatta Enclosure is a lot smaller and has fewer catering and bar facilities. I just want to prepare you for it!
Mobile Phone Usage
This won’t apply to the Regatta Enclosure people, but making or receiving phone calls within the confines of the Stewards’ Enclosure is not permitted. They have a strict two-strike policy, which if broken, you will be escorted out of the enclosure.
The bigger issue for us in the Regatta Enclosure was lack of the phone service generally. Depending on your mobile phone network provider, you may not be able to use your data. I found out the hard way and couldn’t really message anyone until I was back in the town centre.
Badges
Henley separates the various zones with a badge system. Keep your badge safe so that you are permitted to enter the clubs or enclosures you’re allowed to be at. Spectators with the Stewards’ Enclosure badges can in fact access the boat tent area (where the rowers keep their boats for the race). So you may be able to watch the rowers carry their boats from race to pontoon.
Blazers everywhere
Henley is this amazing bubble where the rowing elite come together. To quote Richard Phelps, Chairman for this year’s event, “Whether it be in the boat tent, Regatta Café or walking down the High Street, you will bump into old friends, rowing legends, or the coach of the university/club you want to move to.”
The beautiful and varied array of blazers worn will make you want one of your own! It is fun to spot so many different colours and you admire different generations who have taken part in previous years, also wearing theirs. It is a club and you can see that this event is a special occasion for those who wish to meet up with old friends.
Despite the pitiful weather, which I am getting sick of moaning about (seriously though, where is summer?), the day was a lot of fun. I met some incredible gals that I have followed on Instagram for ages (shoutout to Isobel and Page), and had a fabulous time.
Is it worth the £50 something pounds it costs for a ticket. I am not sure it is. But would I go again? Yes.
Why Nehir? Because next year, I will drag a whole group of friends. I’ll be sure to party it up at The Barn Bar and hopefully, get a tan from the heatwave (here’s to wishful thinking). These events are only as good as you make them, and I choose to make them worthwhile.
