The Henley Regatta is the world’s best known regatta and is a summer highlight for many, for both sport and socialising. And this year’s event is set to start soon (2nd – 6th July).

The Henley Regatta

The Henley Regatta is an annual rowing event that is held for 5 days over the first weekend in July. Over 200 races are held along the river Thames by the town of Henley-on-Thames, England where the event got its name.

The event attracts thousands of visitors to the area every year and has been running since 1839. Olympians and rowers of international standard compete in head-to-head knock out competitions along the mile long course culminating in the most prestigious event – the Grand Challenge Cup!

The Henley Regatta has been known as the ‘Henley Royal Regatta’ since 1851, when Prince Albert became its first royal patron. Since then each reigning monarch has taken over patronage.

Fine Dining at Henley

If you are planning on attending the regatta* then you will know there is so much more to the event than boat races. Henley is known for its fine food and great socialising.

There are several different bar, restaurant and café areas where you can relax with friends and make new acquaintances. You could enjoy a three-course lunch in the Luncheon Tent, or have a traditional afternoon tea here to celebrate the 175th anniversary of the races.
For something a little more formal, take a seat at the Seafood Restaurant where you can enjoy great seafood, shellfish, and even better company. Or take a short trip down the road to the Macdonald Hotel and Resort where John Ross Junior products can be proudly found on the menu.

*If you have tickets, then make sure to check out the strict dress code before you go.

Enjoy From Home

If you won’t be heading down to the South East of England this weekend, not to worry, you can still enjoy the quality food you would expect at Henley, from the comfort of your home. Why not try this boating inspired recipe?

Salmon and Lettuce Boats

Ingredients:

• 1 Cos or Romaine lettuce
• 1 spring onion
• 160g plain kiln roasted John Ross Junior Smoked Salmon
• ½ an avocado
• 2 tbsp. cream cheese
• 1 tbsp. chopped dill
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Lemon zest for garnish

Method:

The first thing to do is prepare the ingredients. Start off by carefully pulling the lettuce leaves off. Wash these well and leave to dry. Slice up the spring onion and the avocado into small bite sized pieces and put to one side. Lay out the lettuce leaves so they form cup or boat like shapes on your chopping board.

Place a small amount of oil in a frying pan, and on a medium heat cook the capers for about a minute. They should turn golden and crisp. In a separate bowl combine the smoked salmon, cream cheese, spring onion, lemon juice and dill. Mix well.

Divide this mixture among the lettuce leaves, sprinkle with capers and top with the lemon zest for decoration. And finally season to taste with salt and pepper.

You now have some deliciously healthy smoked salmon and lettuce boats inspired by the weekend’s boat racing!

(images: Wikipedia and Taste)