Buckle up for the annual Chanel J12 Boat Race between Cambridge and Oxford, synonymous with British tradition, on Saturday 4 April. The route of The Championship Course, which is 4.25 miles long, between Putney and Mortlake on the River Thames has been followed every year since the race started in 1829.
What is the Boat Race?
The Boat Race is a historic annual rowing competition on the River Thames between elite crews from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Established in 1829, the event sees the "Dark Blues" and "Light Blues" battle across the gruelling Championship Course from Putney to Mortlake, with Cambridge leading 88–81 in the men's race and 49–30 in the women's race.
Where to watch the race
Find a spot on Putney Bridge to see the very start of the race, or head to Chiswick Bridge at the finish line to soak up the party atmosphere – but make sure you arrive in ample time to bag a good spot.
There are two official fan zones where you can anchor up and get stuck into the celebrations: The Hammersmith Fan Zone in Furnivall Gardens and the Fulham Fan Zone in Bishops Park. Both spots open from 11 am, are free to enter, offer food and drinks, and are fitted with big screens broadcasting the race live.
If you'd rather find a riverside pub to cheer your favourite team from, The Boathouse is right at the start of the route and has a spacious terrace boasting views over Putney Bridge. The Crabtree, also at the beginning of the route, has screens broadcasting the race live, as well as direct views of the course and live music for added vibes. For a more sedate sit-down British meal to go with the action you can also book a table at Sam's Riverside or Brasserie Constance.
Schedule for the day
- 2.21 pm – Oxford vs Cambridge Women's Boat Race commences
- 2.31 pm – Osiris vs Blondie (Women's Reserves) Boat Race
- 2.51 pm – Isis vs Goldie (Men's Reserves) Boat Race
- 3.21 pm – Oxford vs Cambridge Men's Boat Race
- 4 pm – Awards ceremony
Road and bridge closures
Putney Embankment and Thames Bank will both close to vehicles from 9 am until 6 pm.
Hammersmith Bridge and pedestrian access across Barnes Bridge will close at 10 am until 5 pm.
You can find out more about Boat Race 2026 here.
