A Guide to Salcombe Town Regatta 2025

Salcombe Regatta is a full week that’s jam-packed with activities on land and sea for all ages, from sailing and swimming to fireworks and fancy dress. This family-friendly thing to do in summer attracts crowds from miles around and it’s sure to be one to remember.

So if you’re travelling to South Devon this August, be sure to check it out. Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about Salcombe Regatta.

Our guide to Salcombe Regatta

Use the quick links below to find out specific information, or read on for our full guide on Salcombe Regatta 2025.

• History of Salcombe Town Regatta
• When is the Salcombe Regatta?
• What’s on at Salcombe Town Regatta?
• How to get to Salcombe Regatta
• Parking at Salcombe Regatta
• Salcombe Regatta accommodation

History of Salcombe Town Regatta

Salcombe Town Regatta is one of the town’s most cherished summer traditions, with a history that spans nearly 170 years. This vibrant event has been bringing the community and visitors together since the mid‑19th century, celebrating Salcombe’s strong connection to the sea.

Here are some key moments in its history:

• 1856: The very first regatta was held, featuring rowing and swimming races that showcased the town’s maritime spirit.
• Over the years, the regatta grew to include more events, such as sailing races, raft races, fancy‑dress flotillas, and swimming galas.
• It became the highlight of the summer calendar, drawing visitors from far and wide to enjoy a week of family‑friendly activities and entertainment.
• Despite changes over the decades, the regatta has stayed true to its roots — celebrating the sea, the community, and Salcombe’s nautical heritage.
• In 2025, the regatta marks its 170th year, confirming its place as one of the UK’s longest‑running community events.

From its humble beginnings to the colourful spectacle it is today, the Salcombe Town Regatta continues to honour the town’s seafaring traditions while providing fun and excitement for all ages.

When is the Salcombe Regatta?

Salcombe Regatta takes place from Saturday 9th August until Saturday 16th August 2025.

What’s on at Salcombe Regatta

Salcombe Regatta is packed with events and activities for all ages to enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re taking part or simply soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.

Here are some of the highlights you can expect:

• Sailing races — Watch the colourful sails fill the estuary as local and visiting sailors compete in a series of exciting races.
• Raft races — A fun and often hilarious event where teams build their own rafts and race them across the water.
• Fancy dress and themed competitions — From fancy dress parades to themed flotillas, creativity and humour are always on display.
• Crabbing competition — A favourite with children, this event brings a lively, competitive spirit to the quayside.
• Fun runs and swims — Take part in (or cheer on) fun runs, swims and other races around the town.
• Family games and challenges — These include traditional games, treasure hunts, and beach activities to keep little ones entertained.
• Fireworks display — The week usually involves a spectacular fireworks show over the harbour, lighting up the night sky.
• Live music and entertainment — Enjoy performances from local musicians and entertainers throughout the week.
• Food stalls and local produce — Sample delicious treats and discover what the local area has to offer.

For further information on events and what’s on during the Salcombe Regatta, visit their website. Alternatively, programmes with full information are on sale now from Bojangles, Bonningtons, Cater Cove, Cranch’s, Spar Shop, Salcombe Information Centre, Regatta Stall, Salcombe Yacht Club, Kingsbridge Tourist Information Centre, and the Village Shop in East Portlemouth.

How to get to Salcombe Regatta

As you’d expect from a must-see event, Salcombe Regatta can get very busy, which is why we suggest using the Park and Ride in Salcombe to get to the event. This service operates every day throughout the summer and runs late on firework night.

You can also travel by boat from Kingsbridge and the surrounding ports at any time. Events are popular, so it’s always worth arriving slightly earlier to ensure you can take part and find the best spots for viewing.

Parking at Salcombe Regatta

Parking during Salcombe Town Regatta can be tricky, so here are the places we recommend:

Bonfire Hill Car Park (Park & Ride hub)

• Located at the entrance to Salcombe, off the A381.
• Pay & Display via RingGo app or card, £3/day (up to 7 days) + small convenience fee
• Operates year-round; spaces are generally available even when the bus isn’t running
• Park & Ride buses run during peak season (summer weekends) between Bonfire Hill and town center: Adult return £2.10, Child £1.40

Useful tip: Park early and use the bus to avoid town centre congestion.

For more information, take a look at the Salcombe Town Council website.

Other Town Car Parks

The Creek Car Park – Long-stay (10 h max), EV chargers available. High-season (Mar–Oct): £10 all day.
Shadycombe – Central location, short-stay of max 3 hours in summer (March to October); parking ranges from £1.50 for 30 minutes and £6.00 for 3 hours.

Salcombe Regatta Accommodation

Quayside, Salcombe

Don’t miss out on your chance to be right at the centre of this fun filled regatta in South Devon this summer. Plus there’s still time to book your Salcombe holiday today and start looking forward to a break filled with great music, delicious food, sailing, rowing and much, much more.

Don’t fancy being in the heart of the action? Book a romantic cottage, dog-friendly abode, or family accommodation in one of the neighbouring towns. Choose from places such as Kingsbridge, Hope Cove, Modbury, or even Bigbury-on-Sea.

Browse our Salcombe Cottages