Cheer for your favourites in the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, one of London’s most popular traditional events.

Historic occasion
The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race is a truly historic occasion, steeped in tradition stemming back to 1829. One of London’s most famous annual events, the race takes place along a stretch of the River Thames beginning at Putney Bridge and ending at Chiswick Bridge.

Join the crowds on the day
Crowds will be out in force to watch Oxford and Cambridge as they race their respective boats and cheer on the teams as they go head to head. The University boat race can be seen from locations along both banks of the Thames, and tens of thousands are expected to turn up to watch the proceedings in a lively, festival atmosphere.

See the action live
Recommended viewpoints to see the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race are Putney Bridge, Putney Embankment and Bishops Park at the start; Hammersmith and Barnes midway and Dukes Meadows and Chiswick Bridge at the finish.

London pubs on race day
A wide selection of pubs will be open along the boat race route, providing an ideal stopping place to enjoy the day’s proceedings. Check out our list of recommended pubs in the Fulham area and along the Thames riverside for a great place to go before or after the Oxford and Cambridge boat race.

Recommended Riverside Bars in London

Recommended Fulham Bars

Recommended Hammersmith Bars

Recommended Putney Bars

Winning teams
Oxford won the University Boat Race in 2011 by four lengths in a time of 17 minutes 32 seconds, but Cambridge still lead the overall score 80 to 76. Be there on the banks of the Thames to see who will be this year's victors, and cheer on both boat race teams as they take on their annual challenge.

River based events
As well as seeing Oxford and Cambridge go head to head in the traditional sporting fixture, you can also enjoy a number of other special events that are taking place on or near the river throughout 2012. Click on the links below for more information.

Great River Race

Thames Bridges Bike Ride

London Bridges Walk

Thames Diamond Jubilee River Pageant

The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race takes place on Saturday 7th April 2012 at 2.15pm, beginning at Putney Bridge. The event is free to attend.

London Marathon

London Marathon Viewpoints

Breakin Convention

London Naked Bike Ride

Queens Jubilee Thames Flotilla

London Half Marathon

Run to the Beat

Royal Parks Half Marathon

Swimathon London

Crisis Square Mile Run

Free Fitness Classes at The Scoop