It’s oars away for the boat race this Saturday as crowds gather across Putney and Fulham to watch the quintessentially English event – and we’ve picked the best riverside hotspots.
Spectators want to be close enough to hear blades splash but getting onto the riverbanks is a mammoth task, make like the rowers and get there early.
Along the starting line Putney Wharf, adjacent to the bridge, is a good place to start with a number of pubs and lots of space to be able to view the action.
The Boathouse Pub is popular with seasoned spectators as it has a terrace and a balcony overlooking the river, it’s usually packed with welly-wearing crew mates so expect loud cheers as rowers power past.
The pub will be putting on live music throughout the day so be braced for crowds but a celebratory atmosphere.
Further down the course, the best bet is to try and get a place on the river banks, next to the Dulwich College Boat House or Vesta Rowing Club.
The forecast is bright but cloudy so be prepared for all weathers as you camp down at the riverside, sunhats and picnics at the ready.
The Duke’s Head, on Lower Richmond Road in Putney, overlooks the river and is a popular student choice.
The pub was the original home of Putney rowing team and embraces this theme, with memorabilia proudly displayed on the walls, making it the perfect backdrop for the iconic race,
For those who want to avoid pubs and enjoy the sunshine, a good family-friendly alternative would be to head down to Bishop’s Park in Fulham.
The park sits right on the river and will be hosting a Boat Race in the Park event organised by the Boat Race and Hammersmith & Fulham council.
Spectators will see the start of the race live from Putney Bridge and can watch the rest of the action unfold on a big screen in the park.
The park will be open to the public between noon and seven in the evening and is free to enter.
Image courtesy of BBC via YouTube, with thanks
