The ongoing Covid-19 situation and closure of New Elvet Bridge have made planning for the 2021 Durham Regatta unusually challenging.

As required by Government and British Rowing guidance competition will observe British Rowing Managing Covid-19 Advice for the Rowing Community. We regret therefore that, in 2021 no provision has been made to cater for spectators and, to reduce the number of attendees, rowing clubs are advised that spectators should not be encouraged to attend.

The decision not to cater for spectators means that the bankside activities and entertainment normally associated with Durham Regatta will be absent in 2021 and there will be no Regatta Enclosure. Car parking will be provided only for competitors, officials and volunteers. The Regatta Site is not accessible to unauthorized vehicles.

Attendees are reminded to maintain appropriate social distancing and observe good hygiene practices at all times and to bring their own hand sanitizer with them for use during the regatta. Visiting clubs should adhere to the requirement that group size in outdoor areas is not to exceed 30 people.

As New Elvet Bridge is currently closed to traffic and some routes through Durham are difficult for trailers, visiting clubs are advised to use the following routes.

Access for clubs travelling from the north, leave the A1 at Chester-le-Street (Junction 63) and travel via the A167 to the A177/South Road roundabout (Cock of the North); turn left and follow the road down the hill until you reach the traffic lights at the Whitechurch; go straight on, down the hill onto New Elvet to the traffic lights at The Royal County/Marriott where you turn right onto Old Elvet, past the prison and then left onto Green Lane and the car/trailer parks (see map).

Whitechurch

Access for clubs travelling from the south leave the A1 at Bowburn (Junction 61) and follow the A177 past Maiden Castle sports ground and follow the road until you reach the traffic lights at the Whitechurch; turn right here and go down the hill onto New Elvet to the traffic lights at The Royal County/Marriott where you turn right onto Old Elvet, past the prison and then left onto Green Lane and the car/trailer parks (see map).

Royal County/Marriott Hotel

Regatta car park (A) and trailer park (B)