Set on the river Thames, it is a major rowing event that takes place once every year. Also known as Henley Regatta, it should not be confused with other regattas such as Henley women’s or Henley veterans which are totally different. The first Regatta was organised in 1839, a few years after the success of the first Cambridge and Oxford ones. Prince Albert was the first member of the royal family to participate, thus the name Royal. All monarchs’s so far after Prince Albert’s death have agreed to be the official patrons of the event with no exceptions. For that reason, many royal family members tend to attend, although Queen Elizabeth does not have an active role in the events.

The events last for 5 days always in the first week of July, and attract crews and visitors from all around the world. Traditionally it has been a very prestigious events which definitely belongs in the biggest annual rowing events. Participants need to apply maximum until 16 days before the 1st day of the events and each event has a limited number of places. Those who want to secure a place normally apply 6-10 months in advance which demonstrates the popularity of the event.

The original course of the race was changed twice over the years and now covers a 500 distance from the Temple Island until Henley bridge. Plenty of safety boats follow the contestants’ boats to ensure that everyone will be safe and no major accidents have been recorded. It wasn’t too long ago when it was decided that women could participate in the Regatta.

Henley Regatta is really popular not only for individuals but also for big London companies which include it into their agenda with corporate events which takes place annually. Corporate hospitality is another reason that attracts more and more companies and for some people the character of the event is being changing during the recent years.