The 54th Powerboat Records Week returns to Coniston Water from 2 to 6 November 2026, with competitors attempting British and world speed records across measured courses.
Windermere Motor Boat Racing Club organises the event, which began on Windermere in 1970 before moving to Coniston in 2005 after Windermere introduced a 10mph speed limit. The lake's association with speed records dates to Sir Malcolm Campbell and his son Donald, whose attempts ended tragically in 1967.
Unlike conventional racing, there are no starting grids or direct competition. Each boat takes its turn on a measured course, attempting to beat the existing record for its class. Eligible categories for 2026 include circuit racing boats, aquabikes, offshore powerboats, electric craft, pleasure navigation classes, MotoSurf and vessels seeking outright records.
Record attempts operate under British Power Boat Association and Circuit Powerboat Association approval, with Union Internationale Motonautique rules where applicable. Speed records require timed runs over specified distances, with class rules determining how performances are assessed.
The verification process can produce figures different from initial announcements. In 2023, Cox Marine initially reported 67.95mph for Adam Brown's diesel outboard record in *Pegasus*, a Hallett Vector powered by a Cox CXO300. The British Power Boat Association's official list now records 67.84mph (approximately 109.18km/h) for both British and world diesel outboard records.
Daily attempts begin at 8am GMT (9pm NZT), with a break from noon until 2pm Monday through Thursday. Friday's final attempt must start by 2pm GMT (3am Saturday NZT). Weather and course conditions will influence running time, and the organisers had not confirmed the 2026 entry list at the time of writing.
