Henley Rowing Association

About

JUST as a visit to Egypt wouldn’t be complete without seeing the pyramids, so a visit along the River Thames has to include a proper row, here in Henley-on-Thames, home to the world-famous Royal Regatta!

Rowing is becoming one of the fastest growing sports and our aim is to help make it accessible to all. You don’t have to have rowed before. Beginners are welcome. If you row at the gym, that’s fine too. Experienced rowers from around the world can even enjoy the thrill of rowing the Henley Royal Regatta course with an Olympian.

Here’s how it works:

Simply contact us after a look at our website, tell us a little about the number of people in your party: their ages, ability levels, health etc and what they would hope to get out of the experience – and we will contact our coaches accordingly.

A one-on-one session with an experienced coach will last about an hour, large parties or corporate events will last longer. In most cases we will start you off with a few minutes on a rowing machine, not to break any world records but to familiarize you with the parts of the stroke and vocabulary used. (As a bonus, clients often tell us that their personal best scores improve after being taught to use the rowing machine properly!) You will then transfer your skills confidently to the water …

Rowing in a double with a coach is a hugely popular birthday present for all ages. Or you may prefer a quad, or an eight. Just let us know the number of people and a suitable date and time – and we will arrange the equipment and coaches accordingly. Mini regattas are a big success, not just for corporate events but for families and friends too.

Weekdays are available and early evenings in the summer months. Afternoons are best – even Saturdays and Sundays, though mornings are not because regular crews will be rowing.

We can lay on food, prizes, even accommodation! Each Rowing Experience is unique and tailor-made for you and vouchers are available if the experience is to be a gift.

Those not rowing can hire little motor boats (or something larger) from Hobbs Boats and take photos and videos. The River and Rowing Museum is in the same vicinity - so something for all ages!