Metropolitan Regatta first raced in 1866, originally comprised a series of races on the Tideway from Putney to Chiswick Church between strictly untried amateur crews from Londons leading rowing clubs. The 1866 final was won by a junior eight from the London Rowing Club. At the same time a pair oared race was also held, which attracted eight entries. London Rowing Club were again victorious. The event was so successful that it was decided to establish an annual regatta on the Putney water and a committee of management was formed, composed of the captains of nearly all the recognised amateur rowing clubs on the Thames. The Regatta’s first Hon. Secretary was Charles Dickens, Jr.

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