Oxford-Cambridge University Boat Race

Where: River Thames from Putney to Mortlake
When: Weekend in late March or early April
Time: From 4.30pm (though a little variable from year-to-year so double-check)

 

The annual Oxford-Cambridge University Boat Race is well fixed in popular culture so is included here; it’s been happening since 1829 and the location has been fixed for many years after a few changes in the early days.  The contest takes place on a spring Saturday over a 4 mile course from Putney to Mortlake, and the banks of the Thames are lined with crowds all the way. The starting place is just upstream from Putney Bridge, while the finish is downstream of Chiswick Road Bridge. Teams of eight rowers plus their cox compete for the coveted prize, sometimes with a few disasters on the way – the result is never a foregone conclusion.

Helpful Hints

In earlier years the race was usually held on Saturdays then Sundays in the afternoon, but it’s always at the weekend. Times have also varied a little so double-check.

In 2024 it was on Sunday 30th March- 2025 date is yet to be announced-follow the link below for full details.

Click here for the event website : http://www.theboatrace.org/

Photo by Mark Freeman.

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