Everything you need to know about the 193rd Durham Regatta

The 193rd Durham Regatta takes place on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14, set against the backdrop of Durham Cathedral and Castle on a stretch of river that has been hosting competitive racing since 1834.

What is Durham Regatta?

Durham Regatta is a two-day rowing festival on the River Wear in Durham City, drawing clubs from across the UK and beyond.

Races are run side by side in a knockout format, with crews competing across a wide range of categories including adaptive rowing. The course runs through the heart of the city, with the cathedral visible above the river for much of the race.

The draw and full racing timetable will be published on Tuesday, June 9.

(Image: The Northern Echo)

Tickets and opening times

The regatta enclosure is open from 8am to 8pm on both days. Tickets are available on the gate at four entrance points along the riverbank.

Tickets will cost £5 for adults, with over 65s and under 16s paying £3. Children under the age of five go free.

A ticket gives access to the enclosure for the full day. Free printed programmes including the racing schedule are available at any gate or from regatta control near the start line.

The four entrance gates are next to the regatta start line (Gate 1), the University playing field (Gate 2), St Cuthbert's Society Boathouse (Gate 3) and Baths Bridge (Gate 4). Large queues are possible at Gate 4 during peak times.

(Image: The Northern Echo)

What to expect inside

Beyond the racing, the enclosure offers a full day out for families. Entertainment includes live bands performing at the historic bandstand throughout the day, circus performers, trampoline bungees and face painting.

The Durham Music Service City Wind Band will be performing in the riverside marquee on Saturday, June 13.

Food stalls and vans cover everything from fish and chips to ice cream, and there are several bars inside the enclosure.

You can also bring your own picnic. There are craft and souvenir stalls, and a display of hundreds of classic cars beside the riverbank.

(Image: Northern Echo)

Parking and getting there

Parking in the dedicated regatta car park off Green Lane (DH1 3JU) costs £3 per day or £5 for the full weekend. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The organisers strongly recommend using Durham's Park and Ride instead at Belmont (DH1 2SR), which operates all weekend.

Dogs are welcome in the enclosure but must be kept under control. Cycling is not permitted inside.

Last year, organisers were forced to apologise after an 'unfortunate incident' which saw a cygnet killed by a boat.

Are you heading to Durham Regatta this weekend? Let us know in the comments below.