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by Justine King / Events
Arguably one of the biggest annual events in Dartmouth’s packed programme, Dartmouth Regatta draws an incredible crowd and atmosphere. Enjoy a packed three-day programme of sailing, sports, live music, street food, fireworks, and so much more.
Our blog will tell you everything you need to know about the Port off Dartmouth Royal Regatta, including:
Since the first official event, Dartmouth Regatta has grown in popularity year after year. From its humble beginnings as a one-day event, the regatta has evolved into a magnificent multi-day extravaganza, brimming with races and family-friendly activities.
In more recent years, Dartmouth Regatta has dedicated its annual theme to celebrate Royal events, such as the King’s coronation.
Dartmouth Regatta is packed with events and things to do both on and off the water. Here’s the low down on what’s on during Dartmouth Regatta 2024:
Saturday 31st August
The legendary Kontiki Raft Race is a fun-filled event that’s always a hit with racers and spectators alike. Participants are required to draw on skill and ingenuity to create their ‘sea-faring’ crafts. The event will take place on the south embankment and boats will be launched at the Higher Ferry slipway. The finishing line is located at the Boat Float.
Join the Kontiki raft race for a good old belly laugh of an afternoon! Check out the Dartmouth Regatta website for terms and conditions and fill out their registration form.
2pm | Saturday 31st August
The parade continues to attract people from all around to watch as beautiful boats sail up the river Dart. With plenty of prizes to be won, it’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss. This year’s fancy dress theme is ‘Steam’ so come and find out who will win the prize for best sault and best dressed vessel and crew.
From Saturday 24th August
The landscaped Royal Avenue Gardens provide the perfect backdrop for land and water-based activities. The gardens play host to live music, the opening ceremony, competitions, and more. Keep an eye on the Regatta website for more information.
Wednesday 28th August
Dartmouth is a vibrant seaside town with a busy port. Whilst at the regatta, be sure to take some downtime with a spot of shopping. There are plenty of options out there. As well as the plethora of independent shops along the high street, you also have the Regatta shopping parade and the Regatta Craft Market.
Read our blog on the 14 best Dartmouth Cafes to find somewhere to eat.
The Regatta Shopping Parade is situated right on the riverfront and will feature a mixture of top-quality retail stands, selling anything from local produce and handmade jewellery to clothes and arts and crafts.
The Regatta Craft Market will be situated on Old Market Square in the centre of the town. Here, you’ll find an array of quirky crafts as well as various musical entertainment to keep you occupied.
9pm | Saturday 31st August
One of the main highlights of Dartmouth Regatta is undoubtedly the epic fireworks display. This visual display of booming lights on the horizon of the River Dart is a spectacular feast for the eyes! Watched by thousands of people, it’s a fantastically popular event that’s not to be missed. So make sure you get to your viewing spot early for the best views of the Regatta finale.
Every year, there are plenty of activities for the children at Dartmouth Regatta including the annual crabbing competition (Friday 30th August). Previous activities have included fancy dress and pavement art competitions, scavenger and treasure hunts, and more.
The designated family area in Coronation Park will provide you and your children with a day filled with fun. Best of all, many of the events are either free or charge a very small fee.
Finding parking at any event can often be tricky, so here’s the low down on parking at Dartmouth Regatta, so you can make an informed decision on what will be the best option for you.
For detailed parking information and to book your parking space, go to the official Dartmouth Regatta parking website.
Official parking is available at the designated Dartmouth Regatta car park. Address for the car park:
Coronation Park,
Coombe Road,
Dartmouth,
Devon,
TQ6 9PQ
Or use what3words – ///tastes.rather.nest
Parking for the full week for a car is also available via the website.
If you wish to park your vehicle overnight you’re vehicle must be in the car park by 11.30 pm. Please note that vehicles will not be allowed to leave the car park after 11 pm unless in the event of an emergency and keys must be surrendered to security.
From previous years, we have found that a great place to park during Dartmouth Regatta is at the Park and Ride car park at the top of town. Parking costs £7.50 per car per day or £10 per motorhome per day, which includes the use of the bus for the car driver and all the passengers (provided they travel together).
Check out the Dartmouth Park and Ride website for more information.
24th August – 1st September
Dartmouth Royal Regatta Sailing Week has been running for over 175 years and plays an integral part of the Regatta itself.
The whole week is jam-packed with races and events, ranging from junior and senior dinghy races to Savills Passage Race, yacht races, and the white sail event. It’s a week of high-speed fun which is not to be missed.
For a full schedule, and to find out more information on the event itself, check out the Dartmouth Sailing Week website.
When planning your trip to Dartmouth Regatta, why not take a look at these other fun and exciting things to do?
Looking for places to eat when visiting Dartmouth? Check out these blogs:
At Coast & Country Cottages, we have a stunning selection of properties in Dartmouth and Kingswear, perfectly situated for enjoying the regatta. From family-friendly properties and romantic boltholes to dog-friendly cottages and sea and River view cottages, you’re bound to find the perfect property for you.
Don’t miss out on this year’s Dartmouth Regatta, book your holiday today!
Book your Dartmouth Regatta holiday!
by Justine King / Events
Hi, I'm Justine. Holidays and travelling have always been a favourite of mine from a young age. Having recently decided to travel...
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