This well-known Regatta attracts thousands of visitors from all over. It is one of the oldest regattas in the country, with rowing and sailing at its core. Spectate or get involved in the various races, competitions and events taking place during the week. From a road race to a tennis tournament and swimming gala. Or ice cream eating, crabbing and pavement artist competitions. Enjoy an excellent firework display alongside live music and a fair in the Dartmouth carpark. There is something for all ages to enjoy!
The History
The Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta celebrates life in the enchanting British seaside town of Dartmouth. It is one of the oldest in the country and steeped in history. The earliest recorded Regatta was in 1822. The handing over by Dartmouth’s Town Mayor of the Silver Oar (as a replica pin) to the Regatta Chairman is one of the oldest traditions of the Regatta. The badge represents the full size Oar which is part of the Town Regalia. It is a ceremonial gesture which takes place during the Official Opening Ceremony, indicating the town handing control to the Regatta Committee for the duration of the event.
When is it?
The week-long celebration always takes place during the week that includes the last Friday in August. It has a plethora of water based and shoreside sporting events, as well as family entertainment. There is a real ‘festival’ feel to Dartmouth during this week, with something for everyone to do and enjoy; it is little wonder it is the second largest Regatta in the UK.
Offshore Racing
Rowing and sailing are at the core of Dartmouth Regatta Week. It is all about the river and the sea. The competition is fierce, with local friends becoming big rivals. It is good fun to watch against the scenic backdrop of the South Hams. Head down to the water’s edge and cheer on the pubs and companies of Dartmouth as they race against each other.
In addition to the rowing and sailing, there are several other sporting events to watch or take part in. Since 1937, Athletics has always been part of the Regatta. In recent times, this has been in the form of a Road Race. The Regatta Tennis Tournament, classed as a level 4 competition by the LTA, has arguably the best view of any tennis tournament in the UK! Many more sporting events take place including Golf, Bowls and Darts and the long-established Regatta Swimming Gala.
Onshore and Offshore Events
But Dartmouth Royal Regatta isn’t just about the sport. Regatta always delivers a packed programme on the shoreside too. There are heaps of activities for children and families to get involved in. Try crab fishing, pavement artistry, colouring, fancy dress, and ice cream eating competitions, waterborne treasure hunts and the famous Spot the Oddity Competition. Families can also enjoy many fun events such as trolley racing, waiters’ and waitresses’ races, barrel rolling and perhaps as a team in the truly legendary Kon-Tiki raft race. You may even see a Newfoundland dog, or a Flyboarding display. And you will definitely see a firework display. Even your four-legged friends can be involved! There is a very popular and hotly contested Regatta Dog Show as part of the Regatta Family Fun Weekend.
The Committee
Whether you are a land or sea lover, there are so many activities during this fun-filled week! Dartmouth Royal Regatta is a whole week of entertainment and is a free to attend event. The event is run entirely by volunteers. The Regatta committee work tirelessly to bring a Regatta that Dartmouth, and her visitors, will be proud of every year. The committee rely entirely on sponsors and generous public donations, with no funding received from any source. Be sure to show your support by giving generously to our collectors and definitely buy a Regatta Souvenir Programme! The programme will give you a schedule of the week’s events, so you know when to be where.
If you find yourself in the area for this event, be sure to check it out. Or if you like what you read and want to be here for it, head to our website and book Your Devon Escape today!
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