The Henley Royal Regatta – outdoor furniture hire for a quintessentially English summer event

Could there be a summer sporting event more quintessentially English than the Henley Royal Regatta?  Evoking images of straw boaters, striped blazers, strawberries, and sunny days, this prestigious 5 day rowing event on the River Thames dates back 180 years.  Rio Lounge have been supplying their chic outdoor hire furniture to this event for the past four years. Read on to find out more.

A brief history of the Henley Regatta

Starting as a one day event in 1839, the event was originally for amateur rowers, rather than professionals.  It was such a success that it was expanded to two days by the following year. Prince Albert’s first attendance in 1851 gave the event its ‘Royal’ moniker. Now a 5 day event, the regatta today features an exciting combination of amateur and professional rowers competing together. As a result, it’s the top UK event of the year for rowing fans.  

What can I expect to see at the Regatta?

Regatta teams race over a course of 1 mile, 550 yards. Rowing fans love the excitement of watching everyone from Olympians to amateur oarsmen competing together. Crowds get dressed up and assemble along the banks of the Thames as the head-to-head knock out competitions begin. Then, all attention is on the rowing action as fans support their favourite teams by cheering them on from the sidelines.

Of course, the Regatta is as much a fashion parade as much it is a sporting event! For some guests, the regatta is less about the boats themselves and more about the sense of occasion. The perfect excuse to dress up, drink champagne or Pimms, and enjoy the British sunshine.  The nautical styles and array of straw boater hats all help to create the event’s unique atmosphere.   

Outdoor Furniture Hire  – The Ambassador’s Enclosure

Those attending the Regatta have lots of options when it comes to tickets and hospitality.  For those wishing to indulge in a luxury experience, the Ambassador’s Enclosure is perfect. Set in private gardens on the banks of the Thames, it’s the ideal spot for race viewing.  Away from the main hustle and bustle, and next to the Steward’s enclosure, guests enjoy sipping champagne and enjoying delicious food served to the chilled-out sounds of the exclusive DJ.  Our client, design agency thisisFST, based in Marlow, hires our outdoor chill-out furniture to create an idyllic summer garden party ambience.  Thursday and Friday is reserved for corporate ticket holders.  However, anyone can purchase tickets for Saturday 6 July from Eventbrite.

Firstly, pairs of white rattan Bulgari Sofas are placed facing each other to create smaller, sociable zones.  Curved shapes are a hot outdoor furniture trend right now; not only do they look great but they also make socialising so much easier! 

Secondly, the client uses our faux leather Ana Mandara Sofa, Corner and Table modules to create further chill-out zones with a contrasting look.  Last but not least, our six seater rattan South Beach Bistro Sets are ideal for those who prefer to perch with their obligatory Pimms or Eton Mess!  Guests are kept cool in the warm sunshine in the shade of our large white Cantilever Umbrellas.

Hosting an outdoor summer event and interested in our furniture hire?  

Whether you’re organising a VIP chill-out lounge for an international sporting event, or a smaller gathering in your own back garden, we can help!  Browse around our products and see what takes your fancy. Add your favourites to a wishlist, and then when you’re ready to go, add them to a quote. Once you’ve ‘checked out’, our furniture hire team will aim to get back to you by the next working day.  Alternatively, why not phone us on 0845 46 77483 or email us to discuss your requirements.