Don't just watch... get on the river! 

So, you fancy getting involved in Chester Raft Race?

Does racing your hand-built raft past cheering crowds on a warm Sunday morning sound like a great way to spend a day with your mates or colleagues? Chester Raft Race is a fantastic day out if you’re a spectator, and even better as an entrant! It’s thrilling being out on the river on a raft you’ve built yourself - an experience that builds lasting bonds between friends like nothing else.

What is involved

• Build a raft ahead of the event. You can build it from almost anything you like, as long as it is stable, secure and will keep you buoyant! We’ll give you advice and guides if you’re new to this.

• A theme is set every year for turning your raft into something that will wow the judges and the spectators! Go crazy, the bigger & bolder – the better!

• Setting off in heats, you’ll float (hopefully) out to the start line at The Meadows. From here, you’ll paddle your raft approx. 400m down the river, past thousands of onlookers and down to the weir.

• When you cross the finish line, your time will be recorded. You will then leisurely paddle back to the start, then head to the event village where a well-earned rest awaits.

• Awards are given out for various categories – see below for all the awards you will be competing for!

• Make a day of it; stay for the afternoon to enjoy live entertainment, family friendly games, food vendors, a beer tent, and the awards ceremony.

Best of all, every penny raised on the day is donated to charity.