Coniston Powerboat Records Week 2025

As the leaves turn golden in the Lake District, excitement is building for one of the most exhilarating events in the powerboating calendar. The 53rd annual Coniston Powerboat Records Week is set to roar into action from Monday, November 3rd to Friday, November 7th, 2025, on the stunning Coniston Water in Cumbria, UK. This prestigious event, organised by the Windermere Motor Boat Racing Club, promises high-speed action, record-breaking attempts, and a celebration of powerboating heritage that draws competitors and spectators from around the world.

A Storied Legacy on the Water

Coniston Water holds a special place in the annals of speed records, famously linked to legends like Sir Malcolm Campbell and his son Donald, who pushed the boundaries of human achievement in the early 20th century. The Records Week itself traces its roots back to 1970, initiated by local enthusiast Norman Buckley and the Windermere Motor Boat Racing Club. Originally held on Windermere, the event shifted to Coniston in 2005 following local speed restrictions, where a precisely surveyed one-kilometer course allows for official attempts at world records. Over the years, the week has evolved into the season finale for powerboat racing, featuring everything from hydroplanes to offshore. Last year’s 52nd edition saw 10 world records shattered, setting the stage for even more feats in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first-time visitor, the event’s blend of adrenaline and scenic beauty—framed by the dramatic fells of the Lake District—makes it unmissable.

What to Expect: Classes, Action, and Records

• Circuit: High-octane inshore racing.
• Aquabike: Personal watercraft speed battles.
• Electric: Innovative eco-friendly powerboats.
• Offshore: Larger vessels tackling endurance runs.
• Pleasure Navigation: Leisure craft pushing limits.
• MotoSurf: Surfboard-style propulsion thrills.
• Outright: Elite attempts for absolute speed records.

Daily schedules kick off around 8:00 AM. Safety is paramount, with strict protocols including mandatory helmets, impact vests, prop guards in public areas, and no-refuelling zones on jetties. Competitors must hold valid licenses from bodies like the Circuit Powerboat Association (CPA) or equivalent, and all boats undergo rigorous scrutineering. The emphasis on personal responsibility ensures a secure environment for all involved.

How to Get Involved

Aspiring record-breakers can enter via the official form, with fees set at £250 for seniors (£300 on-site after November 4th) and £200 for under-16s. Entries close on October 24th, 2025, and should be sent to: Event Secretary Alison Whalley 9 Brookhouse Gardens, Parkin Lane, Bradford, BD10 0NH Late entries are possible at the event office in Coniston. Spectators are welcome to line the shores for free, with prime viewing spots around the boating center. For media passes, accommodations, or further details, visit the official website or contact the organisers through the Windermere Motor Boat Racing Club.