Matlock Raft Race 2014

Matlock Raft Race takes place on the River Derwent, going through Matlock and then around to Matlock Bath, Derbyshire.

The race was set up in 1961, as an annual event by a group of divers on Boxing Day. The first event took place with over 100 rafts taking part including divers from all over Yorkshire and Derbyshire. It starts at 10:15am, the rafts start at Matlock, with spectators lining the streets to watch the rafts float down the river, over the weir and to finish at Cromford meadows. Prizes are given for the best raft.

During the race, money is raised for the RNLI and has supported the life boats as well as helping to buy two lifeboats. The RNLI launch in all different weather conditions when needed, risking their lives to rescue others in need, the RNLI could not continue to do this without the support of the public.

The event was cancelled due to flooding of the River Derwent in 2019, and then again in 2020, due to Covid.