Overview
London Rowing Club was formed in 1856 – its first outing on the Thames was on 22 May that year – to give London oarsmen an open, affordable club, and it has rowed from its boathouse on Putney Embankment on the Tideway, since the present building opened in 1871. It has a long Henley record, won world lightweight titles with its own squad in the 1970s and '80s, and today runs squad, masters and recreational rowing, with learn-to-row courses run at the club by TopRow; women have rowed as members since 2002.
- Founded
- 1856
- Federation
- British Rowing
- Phone
- +44 20 8788 1400
On the water with VesselSOS
- Family see you from shoreA live link in any browser – they don’t need the app.
- One tap to the right rescue centreThe app finds the rescue centre for where you are, with your position and call script even without signal.
- Return-time checkIf you’re not back in time, your people know.
- Shared hazard mapRocks, nets and other hazards reported by other boaters.
Racing
Live map, a start clock on every phone and results — when the club runs a race on VesselSOS Racing, it shows up here. Racing is a pilot with clubs for the 2027 season.
No race running right nowSee VesselSOS RacingCourses
History and achievements
- 1856The club is formed at a meeting at the Craven Hotel, Strand, and makes its debut on the Thames on 22 May
- 1871The present boathouse on Putney Embankment opens (last upgraded 2006–07)
- 1930sLondon wins the Grand Challenge Cup at Henley four times
- 1975–1980The club's lightweight squad wins world silver (1975) and world lightweight eights titles in 1977, 1978 and 1980
- 2002The first female rowing member joins
- 2006The club marks its 150th anniversary
Location
- Position
- 51°28.12′ N 0°13.17′ W
51.46864, -0.21950 - Address
- 7 Putney Embankment
Frequently asked
Does London Rowing Club run courses?
Yes. The club lists these courses: Learn to Row (TopRow).
When was London Rowing Club founded?
In 1856.
