Dragon Boat Racing at Paddington Basin
For the last decade The Dragon Boat Race has taken place in the Paddington Basin. A tradition that dates back 2000 years witnesses’ teams of ten rowers and a drummer compete in a race down the length of Merchant Square canal, in time with the drum, in a race to the finish line to take home the trophy, and maybe slightly more important bragging rights for the year. Fancy dress is always encouraged for the Dragon Boat Racing at Paddington basin. Previous winning teams have donned a variety of costumes including Vikings, Drag Queens and Pirates. All the crews include people from the local area whether they be work colleagues, friends or family they all come together to raise money for the local children of St Mary’s Intensive Care (COSMIC) charity.
As with any race there are prizes to be won, however they are offered up for first place, the runner up and best dressed (hence the fancy dress encouragement). With a two-year hiatus you can expect this to be a race to remember. The Dragon Boat Race is free to watch and takes place this year at the Paddington Basin at 5pm on Tuesday 28th July. Along with the fun of the dragon boat racing, you can also enjoy drinks, street food and canal side entertainment whilst raising money for this vital local cause.
If you’re in the area and looking for somewhere to stay then Hotel Indigo London Paddington has a variety of accommodation available that will suit all of your needs. So once you’re done with all the excitement you can have a lovely five minute walk back to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your evening however you see fit.
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