It’s certainly no secret that I’ve got a rather sizeable soft spot for the various vehicles that can be found within the confines of our capital city. But whilst I’m usually over here waxing lyrical about London’s nifty network of tubes, trains, buses, and bikes, today I’m pushing the boat out. Because the Classic Boat Festival is returning to St Katharine Docks next month – and it’s completely free to visit.
The annual extravaganza (now in its 17th year) sees a rather hefty fleet of beautifully-preserved vintage vessels take to the water of central London’s only marina for two days worth of maritime merriment. This year’s event will see around 50 historic vessels moor at the central and west basins – including the legendary likes of Dunkirk Little Ships, historic steam tugs, and Thames Sailing Barges.
The Classic Boat Festival will be taking place on September 12 and 13 this year, serving up a whole weekend’s worth of free family-friendly fun (each of which will begin and end with a rather dramatic salute of horns). Visitors will be able to view the vessels at water level, meet their owners, and enjoy talks from knowledgeable hosts. And there will be an array of live music and kid-friendly activities taking place throughout the weekend, too.
If you’d prefer your feet to stay firmly on the shore, there will be a whole host of food, entertainment, and nautical goings-on happening on Marble Quay. So, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.
The Classic Boat Festival will be taking place at St Katharine Docks on September 12 and 13 from 10.30am-5pm. Find out more and plan your visit here.
