The World’s Oldest Boat Race

The World’s Oldest Boat Race

10.30am – 12pm, followed by film showing

Discover the hidden history of the world’s oldest boat race – the Race for Doggett’s Coat and Badge.

Journey back to a time when rowing was the domain of the Wherrymen (the water-taxi drivers of their day) who raced for high-stake wagers, drawing crowds of thousands along the banks of the Thames.  Hear about Thomas Doggett and the young river apprentices who competed to win his prestigious red coat and badge, and still do so today.  The event includes:

• Introduction to the history of the race exploring the Museum’s collection on display and the chance to see objects from our archives
• The story of the project bringing this tradition to life through oral history, photographs and 100 years of archive material made publicly accessible for the first time
• Showing of a new film from the Thames Festival Trust following the journey of two of this year’s race competitors and featuring interviews with Doggett’s winners

Event ticket £10

Booking essential, please call 01491 415600 to book or fill in the form below.

Supported by: