Event Type: Nautical

We are delighted to be returning for the 179th Dartmouth Royal Regatta.

The week long celebrations, incorporating the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, 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 and fun in bucket loads. 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.

A feast of rowing takes centre-stage on the River Dart and the Embankment in the town is a favourite place from which to watch the events and enjoy the commentary. The Royal Dart Yacht Club, Dartmouth Yacht Club and Dittisham Sailing Club, organise the sailing events which are spread over the eight days of the sailing Regatta. The dinghy racing for the junior sailors takes place on the lower reaches of the Dart and for the senior competitors in the waters between Dittisham and Galmpton.

But it 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 including crab fishing, pavement artist, 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. You will definitely see a firework display. Even your four legged friends are covered with our very popular and hotly contested Regatta Dog Show as part of the Regatta Family Fun Day.

If you fancy some retail therapy then the town is full of independently owned shops to browse, and the Regatta organises a Shopping Parade along the Embankment with a mix of local and top quality vendors, and a craft market in the Old Market Square. Music features heavily too, all around the town, whether in the Royal Avenue Gardens or in the Coronation Park Arena, which showcases some fantastic open air concerts during the week.