Your guide to Henley Royal Regatta 2025

Each summer, Henley-on-Thames plays host to the Henley Royal Regatta, an event that is as much a celebration of British sporting excellence as it is a fixture on the social calendar. Renowned worldwide for its rich heritage and competitive rowing, the regatta draws top crews and thousands of spectators eager to enjoy the pageantry, competition, and quintessentially British atmosphere that has defined Henley for nearly two centuries.

Now in its 186th year, the 2025 regatta will feature over 400 races with world-class athletes and emerging crews from across the globe. Henley is as much about the spectacle away from the water as it is about the competition on it, where club blazers, boaters and strawberries with cream are as much a part of the experience as the oars and finish flags.

Whether you are attending for the rowing, the fashion, a curious first-timer, or simply attending for the champagne and people-watching, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from the history and dress code to the best places to view the races and what to wear.

Image credit Henley Royal Regatta

When is the Henley Royal Regatta?

The 2025 edition of the regatta will run from Tuesday 1st July to Sunday 6th July. Racing is scheduled to begin each day at 9am from Tuesday through Saturday, with a slightly later start of 11am on Sunday. Most racing concludes around 7:30pm, though the final races on Sunday will finish by approximately 4:30pm.

Where does it take place?

Henley-on-Thames, a postcard-perfect market town in Oxfordshire, provides the iconic backdrop for this event. Just over a 35-minute train ride from London Paddington, it’s the perfect day trip for anyone wanting to enjoy world-class sport, delicious food, and a lively riverside atmosphere.

The regatta course begins at Temple Island and stretches upstream for 2,112 metres toward Leander Club, with races concluding just past the Henley Bridge.

Image credit Henley Royal Regatta

A brief history

Founded in 1839 to attract tourism, the Henley Regatta gained royal status in 1851 thanks to Prince Albert. Today, it remains one of the most prestigious rowing events in the world, welcoming international crews from Olympic squads to school teams. The knockout format sees boats race one-on-one for a place in the next round, with Sunday reserved for the finals.

Although originally exclusive to men, the regatta has allowed women to compete since 1981.

The geography of the riverbanks

The regatta is split across two banks of the Thames: the Berkshire (“Berks”) side and the Buckinghamshire (“Bucks”) side.

The Berks side is where most of the action is centred. It hosts the Stewards’ Enclosure, the Boat Tent, Leander Club, and most of the club marquees and bars. You’ll also find the popular shopping village, refreshments stands like the Nyetimber and Pimm’s buses, and the main campsite. Crucially, it also offers the best views of the starting line.

The Bucks side is home to Phyllis Court Club (PCC), several corporate marquees, and pleasure cruisers. While scenic, access is more restricted, and atmosphere can be subdued. Since the only pedestrian crossing is at Henley Bridge, a fair walk from the start line, most seasoned attendees recommend staying on the Berks side for the best experience.

Image credit Henley Royal Regatta

Where to watch

Spectators can view the racing from several key vantage points. For early-race drama, stand near Temple Island or the Upper Thames Rowing Club. For sprint finishes and a celebratory crowd, the finish near Leander Club offers prime positioning. The Riverside Enclosure features food, drinks, and live commentary, while picnickers enjoy the public stretches of the Berks riverbank.

Hospitality packages at Henley

For those seeking the most elegant way to enjoy the regatta, official hospitality packages offer a premium alternative. These are now available to book through STH Group and include options ranging from laid-back riverside lounges to private chalets and exclusive island retreats.

The Fawley Meadows Lounge offers a relaxed yet refined experience, with all-day entertainment, DJ sets, and a grazing lunch paired with Nyetimber sparkling wine and cocktails. The Fawley Meadows Restaurant features a five-course seasonal menu, riverboat transfers, afternoon tea, and live music, all served from a private terrace overlooking the course.

Private Riverside Chalets accommodate groups of up to 30 guests, offering personalised dining menus, garden views, and a dedicated hospitality team. The most exclusive option is Temple Island, a private venue at the start of the course, accessed by river cruise and complete with gourmet dining, champagne, and some of the best views on the Thames.

For more information and to book, visit prestigevenuesandevents.sodexo.com

What else to expect

Picnics are part of the tradition. Think rugs, strawberries, champagne, and traditional British fare along the riverbank. Meanwhile, the town comes alive in the evening with pubs, parties, and live music.

Hospitality at Henley Royal Regatta 2025

The dress code

Henley is one of the few public events in Britain where dress codes still matter. In the Stewards’ Enclosure, men must wear a lounge suit or blazer with tie or cravat. Women are expected to wear dresses or skirts that fall below the knee, though trousers suits have been allowed since 2021. Hats are encouraged.

Elsewhere, including the Regatta Enclosure, the dress code is more relaxed. Men typically wear chinos and lightweight blazers, while women opt for floral dresses, sandals, and fascinators. Rowers and club members are known for their brightly coloured blazers in bold stripes, a festive touch that is very much in keeping with the tradition.

Getting there

Trains from London Paddington to Henley-on-Thames (via Twyford) take just over an hour. The station is a short walk from all enclosures, though services can get crowded, especially on finals weekend, so early departure and pre-booked tickets are recommended.

Do you need a ticket?

You can enjoy parts of the regatta without a ticket, particularly along the public riverbank areas. However, for the best experience, tickets are required for enclosures such as the Regatta Enclosure (open to the public) and the Stewards’ Enclosure (members and guests only). They can sell out fast, so early booking is often essential.

Image credit Henley Royal Regatta 2025

Is there a Women’s Regatta?

Yes, the Henley Women’s Regatta takes place around ten days before the main event. Featuring over 2000 female competitors, it offers a similarly thrilling experience along the same course (albeit slightly shorter). No ticket is needed, just turn up and enjoy.

With its rich heritage, scenic riverside setting, and unrivalled summer atmosphere, it remains a jewel of the British sporting and social calendar. Dress well, arrive early, and raise a glass to one of Britain’s most time-honoured traditions!

Date: 1 July – 6 July 2025. Location: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, UK. Price: from £36–£60 per person (children under 14 go free with an adult). Book now