2026 National Schools’ Regatta returns to Dorney Lake
June 27, 2025
The Committee of National Schools’ Regatta are delighted to announce that, in partnership with Eton College, we have agreed terms that will see Dorney Lake as the host venue of...
The National Schools’ Regatta is the UK’s premiere rowing event for junior rowers and attracts over 5,000 competitors aged 14 to 18 years.
Click here for marquee bookingThe 2026 National Schools’ Regatta will be held at:
Dorney Lake, Windsor, Berkshire
Returning To Dorney Lake
The Committee of National Schools’ Regatta are delighted to announce that, in partnership with Eton College, we have agreed terms that will see Dorney Lake as the host venue of NSR for, at least, the next five years, starting with NSR 2026.
An approach by the College to discuss the regatta and the opportunities for collaboration arose during our reviews of NSR 2025. We are appreciative of the time and effort taken by the College to discuss the needs and desires of the regatta and it is clear that the College is keen to work together with us to enrich and develop the event and to provide the platform for young athletes to compete at a top-class regatta, in a world-leading rowing venue.
We were very pleased with the help and support we received from those at NWSC over 2024/25 and we are proud of the success of the event, albeit curtailed by one day due to poor weather. Friday, in particular, provided great close racing for the younger crews and wonderful support from both sides of the course.
However, through our discussions following the regatta, it is apparent that we were very near capacity for that venue. Most of the alterations we needed to make or adapt for the future came down to site space, both on and off the water. Ultimately, staying at Nottingham would mean limiting opportunities to develop the athlete and spectator experience. I would like to thank the Committee and the staff at NWSC for their effort, drive and commitment in bringing NSR 2025 together. Having to adapt our model to the new venue has provided worthwhile clarity on what we are trying to achieve.
With a strong desire and interest in working together and the stability of long-term commitment, we are confident that the partnership with Eton College will enable National Schools’ Regatta to remain at the forefront, as a leader in world-wide junior rowing events and a landmark occasion on the rowing calendar for all.
We look forward to welcoming you all on 22nd-24th May 2026, to Dorney Lake for the next edition of National Schools’ Regatta.
Mike Martin
Chairman NSR
The National Schools’ Regatta is the UK’s premiere rowing event for junior rowers and attracts over 5,000 competitors aged 14 to 18 years. NSR is one of the UK’s biggest junior sports events and in 2026 will be held at Dorney Lake, Windsor, Berkshire
The racing is competitive, fast, and fun. It is a great weekend for competitors and spectators alike. The National Schools’ Regatta was established in 1947 to offer a valuable racing experience to a wide range of junior crews. Everyone enjoys the excitement of the competition, from the most junior of competitors to the elite young athletes. The atmosphere at every race is electric, with competitors returning year after year. Many successful international oarsmen and women have started their racing career at the National Schools’ Regatta.
The National Schools’ Regatta is a charitable trust run by a committee of volunteers and is a not-for-profit event. The team ensures that every competitor has a first-class regatta experience. Any money raised is put towards the running of the regatta and to help clubs with their junior rowing projects.
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