Dorney Lake
Lake Artificial rowing lake used for rowing events and training
An engineered rowing lake near Windsor used for the 2012 Olympic rowing events, Dorney Lake hosts regattas, training sessions and corporate events; visitors find flat rowing courses, spectator stands, and paths for running and cycling.
Dorney Lake is a purpose-built rowing and flatwater venue near Dorney in Buckinghamshire, England, created to provide a two-kilometre international-standard race course. It is owned and operated by Eton College and used for training, national regattas and international competitions.
The lake includes a 2,000-metre aligned course, boathouses and a finish tower with spectator seating used during major events. Its flat, sheltered setting and facilities make it a preferred venue for regattas and training camps.
Dorney Lake was the selected venue for rowing and canoe sprint at the 2012 London Olympic Games, which is the site’s highest-profile international use.
The facility lies near the villages of Dorney and Windsor, west of the River Thames and close to Eton in Buckinghamshire.
- Course specification: Purpose-built as a flatwater rowing venue with a 2,000-metre racing course and multi-lane alignment suitable for international events.
- Major events: Selected as the venue for rowing and canoe sprint events at the London 2012 Olympic Games, giving it international competition pedigree.
What to See #
- Race course: FISA-standard race course laid out for 2,000 metres, used for international rowing and canoe sprint competitions.
- Finish tower and spectator facilities: Finish tower and spectator facilities including grandstands and boathouse buildings that serve event operations and viewing.
How to Get to Dorney Lake #
Dorney Lake (Eton Dorney) is west of London near Windsor and Maidenhead. By car it’s reached via the M4 westbound from London - the trip is roughly 25-40 miles (40-65 km) depending on start point and takes around 30-60 minutes. The nearest mainline stations are Slough and Windsor; from either station a local taxi or bus will take you to the venue (a short drive of around 10-20 minutes).
Tips for Visiting Dorney Lake #
- Check the regatta and events calendar before you go-Dorney Lake hosts large rowing events and national competitions that can close public access and car parks on short notice.
- Visit on weekdays or outside school and regatta seasons to enjoy the uninterrupted lakeside circuit and wildlife; the full perimeter path gives the best views of the Olympic-standard course, which many passersby miss.
- If driving, use the designated spectator/car park and follow signage on event days-local roads around the estate can become congested, so allow extra time for arrival and departure.
Best Time to Visit Dorney Lake #
Best in late spring through summer for rowing events and pleasant conditions; expect the most activity at weekends during summer.
Weather & Climate near Dorney Lake #
Dorney Lake's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 23°C. Moderate rainfall (632 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. The wettest month with 64 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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