For two days every summer –16-17 July this year – the river at Henley-on-Thames drifts back 50-100 years as slipper launches, steam boats, skiffs and other traditional craft take over


THAMES PREVIEW BOAT RALLY T 58


raditional’s definitely the word. Not only are the boats, mostly, of traditional design and construction, but the event has, over its 34-year history, become a tradition itself.


As ritual and unchanging as


Wimbledon or Henley (the other ‘Henley’, the rowing regatta), it is, for the rather more select band of those who know and love it, a part – a highlight even – of the English summer and the lifecycle of the great river on and beside which it takes place. The formula may be unchanging – picnics, Pimm’s, boaters and blazers,


Keeping the


varnished wood, flashing oars, the emotional parade of the Dunkirk Little Ships on the Sunday morning, the classic cars, the historic bicycles (with appropriately-clad riders), the droll commentary by Charles Payton – but the details differ each year. Every rally sees at least one and usually several newly-restored boats, all helping to keep the river’s gorgeous and unique fluvial heritage alive.


CLASSIC BOAT JULY 2011


river’s gorgeous heritage alive


Last year, the gentleman’s launch Rainbow, built in 1920 by J Bates of Chertsey and owned by Adam Toop (and featured in CB270), won an armful of trophies, including Best in Show. This year... who knows? But one visitor is certain to command a great deal of attention. Pierrette is a first- generation 44ft (13.4m) fast open steam launch built in 1894 of riveted steel, now part of the Rose Collection. Also new this year will be Healey sports boats with Austin-Healey sports cars. And if you’re inspired to buy a boat, or have one built or restored, the rally is the place to discuss options with the likes of Henwood and Dean, Peter Freebody,


Henley Sales and Charter, and Stanley and Thomas. And then perhaps join one of the friendly and supportive owners’ organisations such as the Thames Vintage Boat Club which have a presence at the Rally. Or you might simply wish to saunter along the river bank, delighting in the results of others’ hard work and dedication. Enjoyment – it’s another Thames tradition.


Traditional


16-17 JULY 9am to midnight Saturday; 9am to 6pm Sunday. £11day, £20 weekend in advance, £12/£22 on gate. Under-14s free. Camping extra. Details www. tradboatrally.com


GETTING THERE Fawley Meadows is on the west side of the Thames, below Henley Bridge, on the A4155. By train: Henley Station, about 1 mile


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