An exciting and fun day out for the whole family, a celebration of all that’s best in British boatbuilding and craftsmanship evoking the nostalgia of boating from a bygone era.

This popular, long-running event, now offers more attractions on the water, in the air and on the land, than ever before.

​Celebrating its 40th year in 2018 as one of the best events for traditional river craft in Europe, featuring the largest display of traditional boats, the fleet of Dunkirk “Little Ships”,  Her Majesty’s Rowbarge “Gloriana”,

amphibious and military vehicles, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, WW1 air display – and much more.

The Trad owes its origins to concerns in the 1970s over the demise of many unpowered craft, seen neglected and rotting along the river Thames. The idea of a rally, held annually and open to anyone was taken up by the River Thames Society which agreed to organise an event in 1978 at Fawley Meadows, opposite the Royal Regatta course at Henley-on-Thames. Its focus: beautiful traditional river craft, powered and un-powered.

Our image shows the Classic Sailor report of 2015 event.

Website:  www.tradboatfestival.com

Event timetable: www.tradboatfestival.com/event-timetable

Event address: Fawley Meadows, Henley on Thames, Oxon. RG9 2HY

Autumn Breeze

Fixitor – competed in the 1908 Olympics – the only time power boating featured at the event

Three men in a boat?

Dressing up for Father Thames