Dragon Boat Racing

The Dragon Boat Race has taken place in the Paddington Basin for over 20 years. This 2000 year old tradition sees teams of 16 rowers and one drummer race down the length of Merchant Square canal, to the beat of the drum, in a bid to reach the finish line and take home the trophy. Fancy dress is encouraged, with previous teams dressed as Vikings, Minions and Pirates. Crews are made up of people from the local area – work colleagues – families and friends all coming together to raise money for the local children of St Mary’s Intensive Care (COSMIC) charity.

There are prizes to be wonz, including the fastest team, the runner up and the best dressed. Along with the fun of the race, you can also enjoy drinks, street food and canal side entertainment whilst raising money for this vital local cause.

Sign up to compete and win the 2025 Dragon Boat Regatta Trophy!

COSMIC (Children of St. Mary’s Intensive Care) supports the Children’s Intensive Care Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital overlooking Paddington Basin, by helping patients and their families and enabling the dedicated team to treat hundreds of critically ill children from all over London each year.