Discover the Dartmouth Regatta

Dartmouth has a population of approximately 6,000. During one summer weekend each year, the population grows to a massive 100,000! The reason for this huge increase of people is simple, the Dartmouth Regatta! This public event is one of the largest in the South West, and its popularity means it has grown to incorporate and large number of events and activities. The Regatta guarantees pure fun during your trip to Devon!

History

Dartmouth has a long naval history and the Royal Regatta is based around key sailing and rowing events. In 1822, the first Regatta took place holding three sailing races. It gained royal status in 1856 when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited. The annual dates of the whole Regatta are based on the last Friday in August with most events traditionally taking place on the Thursday to Saturday.

Sailing and rowing are still at the forefront of the Regatta, with many people flocking to see or compete in their favourite events. There are many categories of rowing events. Local Rowing forms the bulk of the races, with the Amateur Rowing Association also competing in many events. Another popular event on the river is ‘Bungee Rowing’ where teams row in one of the regatta’s famous whalers while pulling against a piece of elastic. The team which pulls the furthest wins, so it’s a really fun event to cheer your favourite team on!

Sailing takes the form of a race from Torbay to Dartmouth, with dinghy races for senior and junior categories. The main event, however, is the Yacht race series which takes place in Start Bay on Thursday and runs through the Regatta weekend.

Family Fun

There are plenty of fun activities and events suited to the whole family taking place over the regatta period. Aside from watching the sporting events, you can watch air displays from the RAF, including the world-famous Red Arrows.

Tennis is another sport played at the Regatta. There is a closed tournament intended for local residents of all standards, as well as open events which attract British Tennis Members to play matches. There are also family doubles events where an under 16 can be accompanied by a parent, guardian or grandparent. These are great fun for any families of tennis fans camping nearby! If you’re tempted to participate, entry forms can be found online.

Children can enjoy the Funfair, fireworks displays and fancy dress competitions, while the adults can look forward to dancing the night away at the Regatta Grand Ball.
Head to Boat Float Bridge to see some unique and hilarious races take place, including a barrel rolling race, a 'Waiters and Waitresses' race and the International Trolley Grand Prix! The trolley race has teams of competitors race a shopping trolley to the finish line while a ‘mechanic’ attempts to keep an on-board bucket filled with water!

Extras

If you’re staying in Devon for a full week over the Regatta, we recommend exploring the local area. There are many gorgeous beaches you can relax on. Broadsands to the north of Dartmouth is great for families.

For more high-octane fun, try Woodlands Family Theme Park. This all-weather attraction has various play zones, including many slides and rides, soft play centres, master blaster games and a large Zoo-Farm! This area hosts about 500 animals. From cheeky meerkats to creepy crawlies and farm animals to cuddly pets, you’re sure to find one of your favourite animals. From only £6.50 per person, this attraction won’t break the bank either.

If you’re visiting the Dartmouth area at a different time of year, then South Devon is also the home to several food festivals. Check out local food events to choose a festival that gets your taste buds tingling!

The Dartmouth Regatta has a rich history of sailing and rowing competitions. But it’s so much more than just a boating tradition. There are a huge variety of events, where you can find fetes, frivolity and fun. During the weekend, you can explore a stunning town, let your hair down and create holiday memories that last a lifetime.