b'Henley Royal RegattaHenley Royal Regatta, first held in 1839, not only occupies a unique position in the world of international rowing but also plays a significant part on the English social scene.Every year, in early summer, crews from all over the world come together to compete over five days, and Olympic and world-class athletes mix and mingle with the thousands that come to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the glorious settingusually with a glass of Pimms in hand!Without doubt the most exciting spot to watch the racing is from the riverpreferably moored up alongside the booms within a few feet of the racing action as the crews power down the 1 mile 550 yard course (which is 112 metres longer than the standard international distance). The event is a riot of colour, excitement, English eccentricity and unrivalled sporting excellence, and the tradition of beautiful launches on the river at Henley continues to be part of the occasion. Downstream from Henley is Temple Island, the famous landmark at the start of the Regatta Course.Built by James Wyatt in 1771 and now owned by Henley Royal Regatta, the building has been extensively renovated with the important murals in the main room restored to their original appearance. Temple Island provides an extraordinary backdrop to a truly extraordinary English event.21'