Henley Regatta was first held in 1839 and has been held annually 1st week July ever since. Originally staged by the Mayor and people of Henley as a public attraction, the emphasis rapidly changed with Royal patronage and now competitive amateur rowing is the main purpose.
Henley Regatta is also famous for grand hospitality - litres of Pimms and Champagne consumed through the midday sun. This is the River Thames at its very best. official HRR website