Experience the magic of the River Thames – top events for boat owners

The River Thames offers a wealth of exciting events that cater to boat owners and those interested in purchasing a boat. From traditional boat races to music festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to the water, these events promise unforgettable experiences filled with adventure, culture and entertainment. Here are our top Thames events for 2024.

Top 2024 Boat Events

— The Boat Race
— Royal Windsor Horse Show
— Let’s Rock The Moor – Cookham
— Royal Ascot
— Henley Royal Regatta
— Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival
— Thames Traditional Boat Festival
— Royal Swan Upping
— Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta
— Rewind Festival
— Reading Festival

The Boat Race – 30th March

 

The historic Boat Race is a must-see event. This prestigious rowing competition showcases the talents of the students from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Join the throngs of spectators on the riverbanks and cheer on your favourite team. https://www.theboatrace.org/

Royal Windsor Horse Show

 

The Royal Windsor Horse Show offers an incredible spectacle of international show jumping and dressage. Moor along the River Thames, you can enjoy this world class line-up of equestrian events, all set against the stunning backdrop of Windsor Castle.

Pub in the Park- Marlow

Combine your love of boating and food at the Pub in the Park event in Marlow. This unique gastronomic experience offers boat owners the chance to sample delicious dishes from top chefs – including Tom Kerridge – while enjoying live music and entertainment along the picturesque banks of the River Thames. Music acts have included Sam Ryder, UB40, The Jacksons and the Sugababes.

Let’s Rock The Moor- Cookham

For a day filled with nostalgic tunes, head to Cookham for Let’s Rock The Moor. This family-friendly festival showcases the best of the 80s, featuring iconic bands and artists like Kim Wilde, OMD and The Boomtown Rats. Moor your boat nearby and dance the day away to your favourite classic hits.

Marlow Town Regatta & Festival

After a fun-packed Pub in the Park, head back to the Buckinghamshire town for the Marlow Town Regatta & Festival. This weekend will be filled with rowing races, entertainment, and food. This historic event, which dates back to 1855, will allow you to immerse yourself in the local boating culture while enjoying a festival atmosphere.

Royal Ascot

Experience the glamour and excitement of the world-famous Royal Ascot. This prestigious horse racing event is a great occasion for boat owners to dress up in their finest attire, enjoy a glass of champagne, and watch the world’s finest horses in action.

Henley Royal Regatta

The Henley Royal Regatta is one of the highlights of the British summer season. This renowned rowing event attracts top international competitors and provides a fantastic social atmosphere for boat owners. Enjoy the races and mingle with fellow enthusiasts on the banks of the River Thames.

Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival

The Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival is a must-visit for keen gardeners. Marvel at the stunning floral displays and innovative garden designs. Meanwhile, this prestigious horticultural event offers the perfect opportunity to gather inspiration for your own on-board garden!

Henley Festival

Experience the unique blend of music, art, and culture at the Henley Music Festival. With a diverse line-up of artists and performers this event caters to a wide range of musical tastes. Moor your boat near the festival site and soak up the vibrant atmosphere while enjoying the live performances.

Thames Traditional Boat Festival

Celebrate the rich maritime heritage of the River Thames at the Thames Traditional Boat Festival. This event showcases a variety of classic and vintage boats, including steam launches, wooden motorboats, and sailboats. Immerse yourself in the history and craftsmanship of these beautiful vessels while connecting with like-minded enthusiasts.

Royal Swan Upping

Witness a centuries-old tradition during the Royal Swan Upping. This annual event involves the counting and marking of swans on the River Thames to ensure their conservation and welfare.

Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta

A home from home for us at Val Wyatt Marine. Join fellow boat enthusiasts at The Wargrave & Shiplake Regatta. This friendly and competitive event features a variety of rowing races for all ages and abilities. Soak up the fun and excitement from the comfort of your boat as you cheer on the participants and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Rewind Festival

Take a trip down memory lane at the Rewind Festival. This 80s-themed event is a favourite among boat owners, offering a fantastic line-up of iconic bands and artists from the era. Moor your vessel near the festival grounds and immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere, complete with music, fancy dress, and plenty of dancing.

Reading Festival

Round off the summer with the famous Reading Festival. This renowned music event features a diverse line-up of artists, spanning various genres such as rock, indie, and electronic music.

With such an incredible array of events happening along the River Thames in 2024, boat owners and prospective buyers have plenty of opportunities to get out and about. From prestigious rowing events to lively music festivals, there’s something for everyone to experience and create lasting memories on the water.