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GigRower European Championships
Mount Edgcumbe
Torpoint
Cornwall
PL10 1HZ
Opening Times
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About us
The GigRower European Championships make their debut in spectacular style this July, bringing four days of world-class coastal racing to Plymouth Sound National Marine Park from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 July 2026. Hosted at Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park, this inaugural event marks a major milestone for Cornish Pilot Gig rowing and will welcome around 300 crews from across Europe to compete for the first-ever European titles.
About the Championships
Set against one of the UK’s most iconic waterfront backdrops, the Championships will showcase the depth and growing popularity of the sport, with categories including Junior, Senior, Vets, Super Vets and Masters. Organised by the Cornish Pilot Gig Association, the event brings together crews of all ages for a major new international competition in a spectacular setting overlooking Plymouth Sound.
Racing Format
Racing starts from 10am each day and follows an exciting multi-stage format designed to test both speed and consistency. Adult crews will contest seeding races before moving into promotion and relegation heats and then championship finals, while junior crews will race through seeding stages before their finals on the closing day.
Event Schedule
The schedule builds across the four days, beginning with Masters and Super Vets racing on Thursday, followed by their finals on Friday alongside Vets racing. Competition continues into the weekend, before the Championships reach their finale on Sunday as Junior and Senior champions are crowned.
Spectator Experience
Spectators can enjoy continuous racing from Mount Edgcumbe as well as from viewpoints along Plymouth’s waterfront, with excellent views across the Sound towards the race action. Live-stream coverage will also be available through the GigRower YouTube channel, helping supporters and visitors follow the Championships throughout the weekend, weather permitting.
Food, Entertainment and Camping
Off the water, Mount Edgcumbe will host a lively event village, creating a festival atmosphere across the Championships. Visitors can expect food and drink, traders, social spaces and evening entertainment, while on-site camping will be available for those wanting to stay close to the action over the full four days.
Plan Your Visit
Free to attend, this landmark event promises an unforgettable celebration of sport, community and coastal heritage in one of the South West’s most striking waterfront locations. Whether you are following the racing, supporting a crew or simply looking for a memorable summer day out, the GigRower European Championships offer a brilliant reason to explore Plymouth’s waterfront and the outstanding setting of Mount Edgcumbe.
Mount Edgcumbe can be reached easily from Plymouth, including via the Cremyll Ferry, making it a great option for a day visit or a longer stay. Parking is available at Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, and while entry for spectators is free, standard parking charges apply for visitors arriving by car.
