THAMES
FESTIVAL
SINCE 197820th - 22nd July 2018
we will mark the
40th anniversary
of the
THAMES TRADITIONAL
BOAT FESTIVAL
with the biggest and
best event yet!
The feedback from last year’s “TRAD” was so immensely positive
that we could be tempted to rest on our laurels. However, we
know we can do better! While the format and layout will be
familiar, we will tweak and improve where we feel it is necessary.
Admin will be even simpler, access for cars and visitors better
marshalled, slight changes to catering facilities, more “posh
loos”, more luxurious Members’ Enclosure: the long-promised on-
site shop for essential supplies as well as super new souvenirs.
When Lady McAlpine took the helm at the TRAD, using her Motor sport
background she said: “Our aim is that if people see Henley Regatta
as the “Festival of Speed”: the “TRAD” should be compared to the
“Goodwood Revival Meeting.” Such a terrific gathering of beautiful
old craft should be celebrated rather more loudly and publicly than it
has been in the past: I would like to see an instant recognition of “The
TRAD” among the public at large. At present, I’m afraid it is still largely
unknown: even around Henley! If people are prepared to spend the time
and effort involved in bringing their boats to the TRAD: they deserve
a large and appreciative audience: and, of course, we need to show
a younger generation the pleasures of messing about in old boats!”
So please BOOK YOUR BOAT IN NOW: on-line. http://www.tradboatfestival.
com If you want to sell something to the 15,000 visitors we know
we will get, and possibly more, please book a trade stand: booking is
open on-line at http://www.tradboatfesitval.com. We have a few Premium
spots for those who have beautiful boats to sell or just want to attract
owners of beautiful boats. These can be booked by discussion with Lady
McAlpine on 01491571373 or [email protected]TICKET SALES ARE NOW open on-line too and we hope that a
lot of you will want to join our supporters “Club”. Not only do you
have use of the Members’ Enclosure with complimentary coffee or
tea, dedicated bar, loos and food service but you will be invited to a
Members’ party with the opportunity to have a look around Gloriana.
Other events are planned so that you feel part of the TRAD all year.Like all such events, we are always trying to find SPONSORS. We are lucky to
have been supported by the Shanly Foundation for many years and others
have come and gone. Hobbs Boatyard and GRUNDON are loyal sponsors “in
kind”. This year we know we will again have The Rug Company sponsoring
Gloriana. We feel we should have more Marine Trade sponsorship! Please try!