The Regatta Edit

Your Insider Guide to Henley Royal Regatta 2025

Every July, the town of Henley-on-Thames transforms. The pace shifts, the river buzzes, and tradition takes centre stage. Whether you're a seasoned guest or it's your first time experiencing the magic, The Henley Edit is your quietly curated guide to doing Regatta week beautifully.

How Old is Henley Royal Regatta?

Henley Royal Regatta was established in 1839, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious sporting events in the world. It predates Wimbledon and continues to draw athletes, royals, and stylish spectators from across the globe. Its heritage runs deep, and its atmosphere remains unmatched.

This Year’s Order of Events

Regatta 2025 runs from Tuesday 1st July to Sunday 6th July, with racing beginning each morning and continuing into the early evening.

Racing typically starts around 09:00 (earlier on certain days) and finishes by 19:30, except on Sunday when the final race concludes around 16:30.

Daily Schedule for Rowing:

• Tuesday 1st July – Opening Day

  • Racing begins at 09:00

  • A great introduction to the week. Quieter crowds and full access to free bars and riverside spaces.

• Wednesday 2nd July – Competitive Heats Begin

  • Racing begins at 08:30

  • The competition intensifies. Ideal for full-day viewing and riverside hospitality.

• Thursday 3rd July – Corporate Entertaining Peak

  • Racing begins at 08:30

  • Popular with business groups and premium bookings.

• Friday 4th July – Quarter Finals

  • Racing begins at 08:30

  • Fast-paced matchups and vibrant crowds. Great for groups and shared pavilions.

• Saturday 5th July – Semi Finals & Social Buzz

  • Racing begins at 09:30

  • The busiest day. High energy, packed riverbanks, and peak hospitality.

    Sunday 6th July – Finals Day

  • Racing begins at 11:00

  • A slower, elegant close to the Regatta. Ideal for relaxed viewing and celebration.

Dress Code: What to Wear at Henley Regatta

Henley is known for its dress codes, particularly in the private enclosures:

Stewards' Enclosure

• Gentlemen must wear lounge suits or jackets with ties.

• Ladies must wear dresses or skirts with hemlines below the knee.

• Hats or fascinators are encouraged.

Regatta Enclosure

• Less formal, but smart summer attire is expected.

• Think structured dresses, linen suits, and relaxed elegance.

Our 2025 recommendation? Lean into fluid tailoring, modern co-ords, and pieces with personality. Local boutiques like Fluidity, Jules, Stocks, Mint Velvet, Whistles, and Crew Clothing are all styling with Regatta in mind.

For men, Laurence Menswear remains the town's go-to for Regatta-appropriate suiting, ties, and formalwear accessories.

Need help pulling a look together? The Henley Edit Concierge offers same-day styling support, boutique pickups, and wardrobe coordination.

Riverside Picnics: Elevated Local Favourites

Forget soggy sandwiches. This year, two names dominate the picnic scene:

Henley Larder
A seasonal hamper available exclusively during Regatta week, filled with local treats: Wild Frog Bakehouse breads, Nettlebed Creamery cheeses, and Hol’s Little Cakery brownies.

Pavilion
Their signature picnic includes coronation chicken rolls, pork & chorizo scotch eggs, cheese straws, Eton Mess and more, all delivered in their hessian tote.

Want it delivered and styled at your boat, garden, or pavilion? That’s where we come in.

Beauty & Wellness: The Pre-Regatta Ritual

The best Regatta looks start well before the first glass is poured. From nail appointments and LED facials to in-home IV drips, these are the essential touchpoints to feel fresh, polished, and photo-ready — all week long.

Kubu Spa — Nail refreshes in calm, minimal surrounds.

Clay Salon — Blow-dries with polish and hold, pre-party or post-race.

Glow Medi Spa — Regatta glow guaranteed via LED facial therapy.

Henley DNA — IV drips and vitamin boosters for a refresh and event ready.

Where to Be: Enclosures, Gardens & Insider Tips

Stewards' Enclosure
Members only. The most prestigious location on the course, with formal dress, silver service, and exceptional river views.

Regatta Enclosure
A little more relaxed but still ticketed. Accessible, buzzy, and directly on the finish line.

The Hidden Garden
This year hosted at Fawley Court. Botanical cocktails, DJs, golden hour energy.

Remenham Farm
For a livelier, all-day ticketed experience. Music, food stalls, and great river frontage.

Can You Watch Henley Regatta for Free?
Yes, if you know where to go. The public towpath is accessible without a ticket and runs alongside the course. It's one of the best spots for soaking up the atmosphere, people-watching, and getting close to the action. Wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early for the best views.

Need Help Navigating It All?

From last-minute tickets and blow-dry bookings to chilled hampers and private boat hire, The Henley Edit Concierge quietly handles everything.

Because knowing what to book is one thing. Having someone handle it all? That’s where we come in.