At Race The Dragon, we bring the excitement of dragon boat racing to communities, corporates, charities and clubs right across the UK. Whether on urban waterways, lakes, rivers or the sea, we’ve built experience in sourcing, assessing and activating venues from coast to coast.
We organise events in many of these places already, and we’d love to bring dragon boating to your area next.
Below are some of the venues and locations where Race The Dragon has raced and hosted events:
🔴 North / North East / North West
Manchester – Sale Water Park
Set against a scenic lakeside backdrop, Sale Water Park hosts the Manchester Dragon Boat Festival – a lively celebration that brings together corporate teams, charities, and the local community. Its accessible location and spacious grounds make it one of the North West’s most popular dragon boat racing venues.
Salford, Greater Manchester – Salford Quays Water Sports Centre
Home to the Manchester Dragon Boat Charity Challenge for many years, Salford Quays offers an accessible and vibrant venue in the heart of Greater Manchester. With direct Metrolink and bus connections to MediaCityUK and central Manchester, this modern watersports centre is ideal for charity, corporate, and community events.
Salford – Helly Hansen Watersports Centre, The Quays
At the heart of Salford Quays, the Helly Hansen Watersports Centre is one of the North West’s premier urban watersports venues. With the stunning MediaCityUK skyline as a backdrop, it offers first-class facilities for corporate, charity, and community dragon boat events, all within minutes of central Manchester.
Liverpool – Liverpool Watersports Centre
Located within Liverpool’s world-famous docks complex, this purpose-built watersports centre provides a stunning city backdrop for dragon boat racing. The venue has hosted numerous corporate dragon boat challenges and is a favourite for events that combine heritage, accessibility, and atmosphere.
West Kirby, Wirral – Marine Lake
Nestled on the Wirral coastline with panoramic views across to North Wales, Marine Lake provides an exceptional open-water setting for dragon boat racing. It’s an inspiring venue for team events, perfectly blending coastal charm with a vibrant local atmosphere.
Leeds, Bradford – Roberts Park
Home to the annual Bradford Dragon Boat Festival – The UK’s largest Dragon Boat Festival! Racing is over a course of 200 metres with the start just beyond the cricket pavilion and the finish in front on the crowds in Roberts Park, Saltaire.
Leeds – Royal Armouries, Leeds Dock
Leeds Dock, adjacent to the Royal Armouries Museum, offers a striking urban backdrop for dragon boat racing. The dock has hosted events as part of the Corporate Games, making it an ideal venue for team-focused and city-based challenges.
Stockton-on-Tees – River Tees Watersports Centre
A premier venue in the North East, the River Tees Watersports Centre has hosted the Tees Dragon Boat Festival as well as corporate and charity events for organisations such as Greggs Foundation and the Boparan Charitable Trust. Its riverside location offers excellent facilities for both spectators and participants.
Scarborough – North Yorkshire Water Park
Set within beautiful countryside, the North Yorkshire Water Park is one of the UK’s finest watersports destinations. It’s home to the Rotary Club of Scarborough Cavaliers Dragon Boat Festival and has welcomed corporate teams from McCain, Merrychef, Red Bull, and Bernard Matthews for exciting charity challenges.
Lytham St Annes – Fairhaven Lake
Just south of Blackpool, Fairhaven Lake is a superb example of a Victorian boating lake built in the 1890s. This scenic venue hosts the annual Blue Skies Dragon Boat Festival, supporting the local NHS Foundation Trust, and provides a picturesque setting steeped in coastal charm.
Chester – Sandy Lane Park
Past events include the Chester Charity Dragon Boat Challenge.
Cheshire – Manley Mere
A versatile venue offering conference facilities, a bar, and restaurant, Manley Mere is ideal for corporate teambuilding and charity dragon boat events. Conveniently located for the North West of England and North Wales, it combines natural beauty with full-service amenities.
Northwich – River Weaver
Previous dragon boat racing events hosted here include the Northwich River Festival.
Wath-upon-Dearne – Manvers Lake
Once a coal washing pit, Manvers Lake has been beautifully transformed into a thriving outdoor activity hub. This lovely South Yorkshire venue is now a popular site for dragon boat racing, combining rich local history with modern facilities.
Wakefield – Pugneys Country Park
The Wakefield Chantry & Huddersfield Rotary Dragon Boat Challenge is one of the most popular watersports events in the North of England. The racing and event is run by Race The Dragon, who have the largest dragon boat fleet in the country and operate the best dragon boat events nationwide.
🟣 Midlands / Central
Staffordshire – Stratford-upon-Avon Boat Club
Established in 1874, this historic club sits on the River Avon and boasts a rich tradition of rowing and boating. With its central Midlands location and classic riverside setting, it has hosted numerous corporate team events for companies including ADI Automotive, Land Rover, and Jaguar.
Birmingham – Edgbaston Reservoir
Edgbaston Reservoir is a 70-acre open-water site for recreation and includes a nature reserve. This historic site was built in 1827. Race The Dragon has been using this location for dragon boat racing for a number of years.
Nottingham – Holme Pierrepont
Home of the National Water Sports Centre. Race The Dragon provided event support to the EDBF (European Dragon Boat Federation) 10th European Nations Championships 2012, attended by 22 nations and 2,400+ athletes and was the last international event to be held in the UK. Holme Pierrepont is also the venue of choice for the BDA (British Dragon Boat Racing Association) National Championships. The venue offers world-class facilities and an international-standard regatta course.
Nottingham – River Trent, Victoria Embankment
The River Trent at Victoria Embankment delivers a dramatic city backdrop for dragon boat racing. With easy spectator access and plenty of space for team areas, it’s an exciting and high-energy venue.
Huntingdon – Grafham Water
Set within the Cambridgeshire countryside, Grafham Water offers a stunning backdrop for dragon boat racing. Its expansive reservoir and excellent visitor facilities make it an ideal location for both corporate team-building and large-scale charity events.
Northampton – Pitsford Water
Pitsford Water provides a beautiful and tranquil setting just outside Northampton. With calm waters and great accessibility, it’s a favourite for Race The Dragon events bringing together teams of all abilities.
Crick – Ravensthorpe Reservoir
Ravensthorpe Reservoir offers a peaceful and picturesque venue surrounded by woodland and wildlife. Its sheltered waters create perfect racing conditions for an unforgettable dragon boat experience.
Daventry – Hollowell Reservoir
Hollowell Reservoir combines natural beauty with a welcoming sailing community, making it an ideal location for competitive and recreational dragon boat racing events.
Norwich – Taverham Mill
Located near the River Wensum, Taverham Mill is a hidden gem in Norfolk. Its calm waters and scenic surroundings create a memorable setting for Race The Dragon events of all sizes.
Lincoln – Hykeham Sailing Club, Apex Lake
Hykeham Sailing Club at Apex Lake provides the perfect mix of open water and well-equipped facilities. This Lincolnshire venue is a fantastic spot for hosting both corporate challenges and community races.
Tamworth – Cliff Lakes
Cliff Lakes, a popular Midlands water sports centre, provides the perfect mix of adventure and accessibility. Its clear waters and welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite for corporate and charity events alike.
Cannock – Chasewater Country Park
Set in a vast country park, Chasewater offers scenic open waters ideal for dragon boat racing. With excellent facilities and spectator space, it’s a fantastic venue for large outdoor events.
Coventry – Draycote Water Country Park
Draycote Water is a renowned sailing and water sports hub near Coventry. Its calm, open expanse is ideal for dragon boat competitions and team-building experiences.
Banbury – Banbury Cross Sailing Club, Grimsbury Reservoir
Grimsbury Reservoir, home to Banbury Cross Sailing Club, provides an intimate and friendly setting for Race The Dragon events, with easy access and excellent on-site amenities.
Worcester – River Severn
The historic River Severn in Worcester offers a scenic and atmospheric course, combining city views with a true sense of tradition and excitement on the water.
Hereford – River Wye
Flowing through beautiful countryside, the River Wye delivers one of the most scenic backdrops in the UK for dragon boat racing. It’s an inspiring venue for both new and returning teams.
Warwick – River Avon
The River Avon in Warwick provides a picturesque and historic setting beneath the shadow of Warwick Castle — an unbeatable atmosphere for team spirit and competition.
Stratford-upon-Avon – Riverside Venue Bar & Restaurant
Combining stunning river views and modern hospitality, the Riverside Venue in Stratford-upon-Avon offers a vibrant and convenient base for a day of racing and celebration.
Daventry – Drayton Reservoir
Drayton Reservoir, known for its excellent accessibility and calm waters, offers a relaxed yet exciting venue for dragon boat racing and community events.
Kidderminster – Trimpley Reservoir
Nestled in the Severn Valley, Trimpley Reservoir provides a beautiful, peaceful location ideal for Race The Dragon events surrounded by rolling countryside.
Halesowen – Bartley Reservoir
Bartley Reservoir, close to Birmingham, offers great facilities and smooth water conditions — perfect for high-energy races and team-building challenges.
Shrewsbury – River Severn
In Shrewsbury, the River Severn winds through the heart of the town, providing a striking historic backdrop for a truly memorable dragon boat experience.
Ironbridge – River Severn
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ironbridge’s section of the River Severn offers dramatic scenery and heritage charm, creating an unforgettable setting for dragon boat racing.
Stafford – Blithfield Reservoir
Blithfield Reservoir, surrounded by gentle hills and nature reserves, offers a spacious and scenic venue perfect for Race The Dragon’s outdoor water events.
Burton upon Trent – River Trent
The River Trent at Burton upon Trent provides a lively, central location for racing, with excellent access and space for spectators and team zones.
Swadlincote – Foremark Reservoir
Foremark Reservoir’s wide, clear waters and countryside setting make it an ideal venue for dragon boat racing and outdoor corporate challenges.
Castle Donington – Staunton Harold Reservoir
Set amid rolling parkland, Staunton Harold Reservoir offers a peaceful yet impressive environment for dragon boat races and community events.
Derby – Church Wilne Watersports Club
Church Wilne Watersports Club provides top-quality facilities and calm racing conditions, making it a standout Midlands location for Race The Dragon events.
Derby – River Derwent
Running through the city, the River Derwent offers an exciting urban venue with easy access for participants and spectators alike.
Derbyshire – Carsington Water
Carsington Water combines stunning Peak District scenery with superb amenities, making it a popular and memorable venue for dragon boat festivals.
Chesterfield – Ogston Reservoir
Ogston Reservoir’s serene setting near Chesterfield provides a perfect mix of beauty and practicality for fun-filled dragon boat events.
Mansfield – Kings Mill Reservoir
Kings Mill Reservoir is a well-loved community hub offering smooth waters and great facilities — an ideal venue for local and corporate dragon boat races.
Wellingborough – Nene Valley Water Ski Club
At the Nene Valley Water Ski Club, Wellingborough, teams can enjoy excellent water conditions and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for competitive dragon boat racing and team days.
Northampton – Billing Aquadrome
Billing Aquadrome offers a fun-filled venue surrounded by leisure facilities and accommodation — perfect for full-day or weekend Race The Dragon experiences.
Worksop – Harthill Reservoir
Harthill Reservoir, set in the rolling hills near Worksop, offers calm waters and natural beauty, creating an ideal backdrop for team challenges and charity races.
Newcastle-under-Lyme – Doddington Pool
Doddington Pool is a hidden gem in Staffordshire, offering an idyllic countryside setting and peaceful open water — perfect for dragon boating with a view.
🟡 South / South East / Coastal South
Reading – Thames Valley Park Riverside
One of our home venues and the venue for the Reading Dragon Boat Festival in 2019 – a fantastic venue for corporate, charity and community events.
Milton Keynes – Willen Lake
This dragon boat racing venue features two lakes to explore and is also home to a wide range of other activities.
London – Surrey Docks Watersports Centre
Surrey Docks Watersports Centre boasts a unique 1km dock overlooking Greenland Dock which is ideal for your dragon boat event, it has a club room which is well presented, spacious and fully accessible from the dock. Widely used in London; convenient for urban audiences and transport links.
London – London Regatta Centre
The London Regatta Centre is a rowing and dragon boat racing centre located in the heart of the Docklands area in the East End of London. It is built on the northern quayside of the historic Royal Albert Dock, directly opposite London City Airport. It boasts a 2,000 metre course with seven lanes and a return lane.
London – Boaters Inn, Kingston-Upon-Thames
The Boaters Inn is situated on the Thames in the beautiful Canbury Gardens, just a ten minute walk from central Kingston. The riverside garden linked to the pub has direct access and viewing of the Thames while also linking directly to Canbury Gardens making it a great venue for medium sized events of 14 to 200 participants.
London – Kingston Rowing Club
Kingston Rowing Club is one of the world’s oldest and most successful amateur rowing clubs. Based on the Thames between Kingston Bridge and Teddington Lock, you can enjoy one of the longest and calmest stretches of rowing water in the UK which makes it ideal for Dragon Boat Racing. Ideal for events from 14 to 500 delegates, with a large club room and viewing balcony looking over the River Thames.
London – Oakley Court, Windsor
Oakley Court is a stunning venue for any sized event ranging from 14 to 102 people. The perfect venue for river trip experiences, with a great view of the Thames from the exceptionally well kept and maintained grounds and garden.
London – Dorney Lake, Windsor
Dorney Lake is a modern world-class rowing and flat-water canoeing centre set in a spectacular 450-acre parkland near Windsor. The site hosted the Rowing and Kayak events during the Olympic and Paralympic Games for London 2012. A top class venue for your event. Any size event can be held here from 14 to 1,000+ with any amount of infrastructure that you require.
London – Runnymede-on-Thames, Egham
Runnymede-on-Thames make this such a great venue and makes the days racing a spectacle for all to see. Your event can be any size at this amazing venue from 14 to 1,000 plus.
London – Wraysbury Skiff & Punting Club, Egham
Wraysbury Skiff & Punting Club is ideal for smaller events from 14 to 150 people. It has excellent facilities, with changing rooms, showers and a bar. It is situated next to Runnymede Pleasure Ground but has its own secluded lawn with a view of the river ideal for spectating the racing of the day, it also has an onsite carpark.
Greater London – Wimbledon Park Lake
With the iconic tennis stadium as its backdrop, Wimbledon Park offers a beautiful green space for dragon boat events. The park has welcomed numerous charity and corporate challenges, benefiting from its central London location and excellent transport links via two nearby rail stations.
Maidenhead – Queen’s Eyot
Queens Eyot is an island venue and can be used exclusively for the day. The island has a beautiful clubhouse and is surrounded by extensive, well-tended lawns, mature trees, with views of the river for watching the dragon boat racing.
Maidenhead – Riverside Marquee
The Riverside Marquee is an exclusive venue to host your dragon boat racing event. 16 acres of private grounds for your exclusive use and sufficient parking onsite for larger groups. The Riverside Marquee is great for events sized from 14 to 500 and can accommodate a small amount of infrastructure you may require.
Dover – Dover Harbour
One of the UK’s main seaports and the historic gateway to Europe, Dover Harbour provides a unique setting for dragon boat racing on the open sea. The Port of Dover Regatta combines racing with RNLI demonstrations, hovercraft and dinghy displays, and open-water swimming — a true celebration of maritime spirit.
Marlow – Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre
Once a 13th-century Knights Templar community and later a royal residence, Bisham Abbey today stands as a national centre of sporting excellence. With superb facilities and conference options, it has hosted the Booker GroceryAid Dragon Boat Race, which has raised over £500,000 for charity.
Maidstone – Leeds Castle
Set against the stunning backdrop of “the loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle provides a unique and picturesque venue for dragon boat racing. The moat and surrounding parkland make for an unforgettable event experience, whether for corporate challenges, charity fundraisers, or team celebrations.
Maidstone – Moat Park
Mote Park’s expansive lake and green open space in the heart of Maidstone offer the perfect combination of accessibility and natural beauty. A popular location for outdoor events, it provides ample spectator areas and facilities for charity dragon boat races and corporate team challenges alike.
Brighton – Hove Lagoon
Hove Lagoon near Brighton is one of the best watersports venues in the country and perfect for dragon boat racing. The Lagoon is an old Victorian boating lake so has a solid bottom and is only waist deep.
West Sussex – Tilgate Lake, Crawley
Once used by Sir Malcolm Campbell to test his legendary Bluebird speedboats, Tilgate Lake holds a unique place in British motoring and maritime history. Located just south of Gatwick Airport, it has hosted the St Catherine’s Hospice Dragon Boat Race for over 25 years, a much-loved community and corporate event attracting teams from across Sussex and beyond.
Winchester – The Itchen Navigation
A picturesque stretch of water through Hampshire, the Itchen Navigation provided the charming setting for the first dragon boat race organised by Naomi House & Jacksplace. It’s a favourite for community and fundraising events in the region.
Isle of Wight – Island Harbour
Located just upriver from East Cowes on the River Medina, Island Harbour offers over 200 berths, a restaurant, and full boating facilities in a scenic riverside setting. Adjacent to the Isle of Wight Festival grounds, it has hosted memorable dragon boat races involving festival suppliers, sponsors, and even a few famous faces. The venue has also supported Wessex Cancer Trust events, raising vital funds with the help of local businesses.
🟠 South West / West Country
Exeter – River Exe
The River Exe runs through the heart of Devon, offering a vibrant and scenic venue for dragon boat racing. With easy access from the city and beautiful natural surroundings, it’s a favourite among local and visiting teams alike. Expect lively crowds and a strong community feel.
Falmouth – The Harbour
Falmouth’s historic harbour provides a dramatic coastal backdrop for racing. Surrounded by maritime charm and stunning sea views, it’s one of the South West’s most atmospheric venues.
Plymouth – Mount Batten Watersports & Activities Centre
Set within Plymouth Sound, the Mount Batten Watersports & Activities Centre offers world-class water sports facilities and a stunning coastal setting. It’s a professional, well-managed venue ideal for large-scale dragon boat events. Experience the thrill of racing on one of the UK’s most famous harbours.
Dartmouth – River Dart
The River Dart winds through one of Devon’s most picturesque valleys, creating a peaceful and inspiring venue for dragon boat racing. With wooded hills and historic waterside towns, it’s a truly memorable place to paddle. A venue that perfectly blends beauty and excitement.
Brixham – The Harbour
Brixham Harbour offers a vibrant and colourful coastal setting with a real maritime buzz. The calm inner waters provide great racing conditions, while the surrounding seafront adds a festival atmosphere. Perfect for teams who love the sea and community spirit.
Bude – Upper Tamar Lake
Upper Tamar Lake sits amid rolling hills on the Devon-Cornwall border, offering calm waters and open skies. It’s a peaceful yet exhilarating setting for dragon boat racing, with excellent amenities for participants and spectators. A wonderful countryside venue for teams of all kinds.
Newton Abbot – Decoy Country Park
Decoy Country Park is a family-friendly venue with a beautiful lake surrounded by woodland. Its sheltered waters make for smooth, exciting racing in a natural setting. Ideal for corporate, charity, and community events.
Okehampton – Roadford Lake
One of the South West’s largest inland lakes, Roadford Lake provides ample space for racing and relaxation. Set in scenic Devon countryside, it’s an ideal location for big events with plenty of facilities. A place where teamwork meets the great outdoors.
Minehead – Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake in Exmoor National Park offers breathtaking scenery and perfect racing conditions. The vast, tranquil waters are surrounded by forested hills and open moorland. It’s a spectacular destination for an unforgettable dragon boat experience.
Bodmin – Siblyback Lake
Siblyback Lake lies within Cornwall’s dramatic Bodmin Moor, providing a striking and atmospheric venue. The clear, calm waters are ideal for dragon boat racing in a truly wild setting. Expect stunning views and plenty of West Country character.
Redruth – Stithians Reservoir
Stithians Reservoir is one of Cornwall’s best-loved water sports destinations. With wide, open water and scenic countryside views, it’s perfect for hosting large-scale races and community events. A friendly, welcoming venue for teams across the South West.
🟢 East / East Coast / Eastern Region
Ipswich – Ipswich Waterfront
The Ipswich Waterfront was originally constructed in 1842 and the area was a functioning dock up until the 1970s. Now a trusted venue for dragon boat racing in Suffolk.
Boston – Witham Way Country Park
Located on the tranquil banks of the River Witham, this scenic country park in Boston offers a peaceful yet exciting venue for dragon boat racing. Its open layout and easy access make it a great choice for community festivals, local businesses, and charity events looking for a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Cambridgeshire – Regatta Meadows
The home of the St Neots Charity Dragon Boat Festival. St Neots is a market town in Cambridgeshire, located along the River Great Ouse.
Peterborough – Peterborough Rowing Club
Peterborough Rowing Club offers a professional-grade course set within the peaceful surroundings of the city’s rowing lakes. With excellent access, on-site facilities, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a top choice for both corporate and charity events. The setting is ideal for fast, competitive racing.
Luton – Luton Hoo Hotel
Set within the grand estate of Luton Hoo Hotel, this private lake provides an elegant and exclusive venue for dragon boat racing. The tranquil waters and historic backdrop create a truly unique event atmosphere. Perfect for teams seeking a touch of prestige and serenity.
Chelmsford – River Chelmer
Flowing through the heart of Essex, the River Chelmer offers a picturesque and peaceful racing experience. Surrounded by greenery and historic charm, it’s ideal for teams who enjoy combining competition with the great outdoors. A quintessentially English setting for your next dragon boat event.
Essex – Hanningfield Reservoir
Hanningfield Reservoir provides a spacious and scenic venue for exciting, open-water racing. With stunning views across the water and excellent visitor facilities, it’s a favourite for large events. Expect plenty of space, smooth conditions, and an unforgettable day on the water.
South Ockendon – Grangewaters Outdoor Education Centre
This purpose-built outdoor centre offers a friendly and accessible venue for dragon boat racing in South Ockendon. Set on a calm lake surrounded by nature, it’s perfect for corporate events, schools, and community teams. A great balance of adventure and relaxation.
Upminster – Russell’s Lake & Stubbers Adventure Centre
Stubbers Adventure Centre is one of Essex’s leading outdoor venues, featuring Russell’s Lake – a perfect setting for dragon boat racing. The calm, clear water and dedicated event facilities make it ideal for group challenges. Expect plenty of energy, excitement, and team spirit.
Norwich – Whitlingham Country Park
Whitlingham Country Park is perfect for reconnecting with nature and enjoying the great outdoors. A hidden gem for dragon boat racing in Norwich.
Skegness – Skegness Boating Lake
Just moments from the sea, Skegness Boating Lake offers a fun and picturesque setting for racing. Its coastal charm and lively atmosphere make it perfect for teams and spectators alike. Ideal for combining sport with a classic seaside experience.
Oakham – Rutland Water
Rutland Water is one of the UK’s most spectacular inland lakes, offering vast open waters surrounded by rolling countryside. It’s a truly breathtaking location for dragon boat racing, with excellent facilities and scenic trails nearby. A venue that captures the spirit of adventure and teamwork.
🔵 Wales
Barry – Water Activities Centre
Barry’s Water Activities Centre offers a fantastic coastal setting for dragon boat racing, just a short distance from Cardiff. With sheltered waters and top-quality facilities, it’s ideal for teams looking to combine competition with seaside fun. Enjoy the energy of South Wales’ vibrant waterfront.
Cardiff – Atlantic Wharf, outside County Hall
Located in the heart of Cardiff Bay, Atlantic Wharf provides a dramatic urban backdrop for dragon boat racing. Another home to the Cardiff Dragon Boat Festival, this venue delivers a thrilling day of competition and camaraderie as teams race across the Wharf waters surrounded by the buzz of the city.
Cardiff – Cardiff Bay
Race in the iconic Cardiff Bay — a landmark destination known for its modern waterfront and lively atmosphere. The calm, open waters create perfect racing conditions, surrounded by some of Wales’ best-known landmarks. It’s a spectacular venue that always draws a crowd and delivers unforgettable events.
Cardiff – Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Penarth
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park offers a beautiful natural setting just outside Cardiff, surrounded by woodland and wildlife. As one of the homes of the Cardiff Dragon Boat Festival, it’s a favourite for both competitive and charity teams seeking a relaxed yet energetic racing venue.
Gwynedd – Bala Lake / Llyn Tegid
As Wales’ largest natural lake, Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) stretches nearly four miles through stunning Snowdonia scenery. Its clear, open waters make it an exceptional spot for racing in a truly epic setting. Breathe in the mountain air and experience dragon boating at its most inspiring.
Llanberis – Llyn Padarn
Set within Snowdonia’s breathtaking mountain scenery, Llyn Padarn offers one of the most spectacular dragon boat racing venues in the UK. The crystal-clear lake and dramatic peaks make it ideal for adventurous team events, charity races, and festivals celebrating the spirit of Wales.
Pembrokeshire – Llys-y-Fran Country Park
Set amidst the rolling hills of Pembrokeshire, Llys-y-Fran Country Park offers a beautiful lake surrounded by lush woodland and walking trails. It’s a peaceful yet exciting venue that brings together nature, teamwork, and competition. A true Welsh gem for dragon boat enthusiasts.
Rhyl – Marine Lake
Rhyl’s Marine Lake provides an easily accessible and sheltered water space that’s perfect for team racing. With views over the North Wales coast and excellent spectator areas, it’s a fun, family-friendly venue. Expect plenty of atmosphere and a great day by the water.
🟤 Scotland
Aberdeen – Aberdeen Beach & Queens Links
Overlooking the North Sea, Aberdeen Beach offers a unique coastal venue for dragon boat racing, combining dramatic views with excellent transport links and event infrastructure. Perfect for charity challenges and festivals, this setting brings a fresh, energetic atmosphere to the Granite City’s famous waterfront.
Edinburgh – The Union Canal, Fountainbridge
Right in the heart of the capital, the Union Canal provides an accessible and atmospheric urban racing course. With modern waterside developments, cafés, and spectator space along the towpath, it’s perfect for corporate and community events looking to bring the excitement of dragon boat racing into the city.
Glasgow – River Clyde
The iconic River Clyde brings the thrill of racing to the heart of Glasgow. Surrounded by the city’s vibrant skyline and historic waterfront, it’s a dynamic and unforgettable venue that captures the energy and spirit of urban dragon boat competition. A perfect mix of culture, challenge, and camaraderie.
Inverness – Caledonian Canal
Experience the magic of dragon boat racing on the Caledonian Canal, one of Scotland’s most scenic waterways. Flowing through the breathtaking landscapes of the Highlands, this venue combines natural beauty with a sense of adventure. Expect clear waters, dramatic views, and a truly memorable race atmosphere.
Loch Lomond – Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch
Set on the edge of Scotland’s most famous loch, this spectacular venue combines mountain views, clear open water, and excellent visitor facilities. Loch Lomond Shores is ideal for large-scale dragon boat festivals, charity races, and team-building events, all within easy reach of Glasgow. A truly iconic Scottish setting that embodies adventure and natural beauty.
Motherwell – Strathclyde Country Park
Nestled between Glasgow and Hamilton, Strathclyde Country Park offers an idyllic setting for dragon boat racing. Its expansive loch, framed by lush greenery, provides calm waters and spectacular views — ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike. With great facilities and easy access, it’s one of Scotland’s premier outdoor event spaces.
The Types of Water Venues We Can Work With
When considering new locations, we look for water venues with certain characteristics. Below is what works well and has suitable venue criteria when selecting new sites for dragon boat racing events:
We’re always looking to expand. If you have a waterbody or venue in mind, we’ll assess whether it’s viable for dragon boat racing. So even if your town has never hosted a dragon boat event, we can often make it happen, provided the water venue is suitable and permissions allow.
If you’re curious whether your location is feasible, just get in touch with the town name and waterbody/river/lake details and we’ll let you know if we can help organise your next dragon boat racing event.
Contact us
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