The River Great Ouse will once again be front and centre of attention on 10 May as the Bedford Regatta returns for its 159th edition, including 1,800 athletes across 43 events on a bumper day of rowing in Bedford.
With races taking place every two minutes from 8.15am to 7.30pm, the Bedford Regatta remains a firm favourite on the rowing calendar.
Founded in 1853, the Regatta is the town’s oldest sporting event.
The sport in Bedford dates back to the 1840s, when private races were informally arranged, but the first “official” Bedford Regatta took place on 25 August 1853. Despite poor weather, a good crowd lined the banks for the eight organised races, featuring 24 rowers.
Skip forward to 2025, there are now over 1,800 athletes taking part in the side-by-side racing, with thousands of spectators lining the banks, creating a unique and exhilarating atmosphere as crews race through a pantheon of sound.
Entries for this year’s event closed a full month ahead of the official deadline – an unprecedented sign of its popularity.
Commenting on the demand, Regatta Secretary Hugh Maltby – who has been involved with the event for 35 years – said, “Crews love racing through the town centre and feeling the support of the thousands of spectators.
“I often hear rowers say Bedford Regatta is their favourite event of the year. It’s also a special day for the local rowing community, as all five clubs come together to make sure everything runs like clockwork.”
This year, the Regatta once again welcomes back the South African Schools Association, who have made Bedford the centrepiece of their annual UK tour. Having enjoyed success in previous visits, they are now an important part of the event’s story.
More than forty five clubs will compete this year, travelling from far and wide.
With many events featuring four to five rounds, winners – who take home traditional pewter tankards – can truly say they have earned their prizes.
The Regatta is also a highlight of Bedford’s social calendar, coinciding with the vibrant spring flowers that show off the Embankment in all its splendour.
You can find out more information on this year’s Regatta here.
