Where to watch the Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race in W4
Mar 9, 2023
The Oxford Cambridge Boat Race 2023 takes place on Sunday March 26 with the women's race at 4pm and the men's at 5pm.
For 2023, the races are scheduled to start later than usual, but March 26 is also the start of daylight savings, so maybe the organisers are just making the most of the sun. Currently, races start at 4pm for the women's race, and 4.30pm for the men's. Here is all the spectator information for the day, including the race map.
The race starts from Putney Pier, between The Star & Garter pub and Thai Square, and finishes just below Chiswick Bridge in line with the University Boat Race finish posts. It is set to be a great day by the river.
The BBC broadcast starts at 15.30 and finishes at 18:00. World Wide Broadcast and Streaming Information HERE
GUIDE TO WATCHING IN W4
The Boat Race is free to watch. Access to the river is possible on both sides as there are paths running along the river, but remember to bring your wellies or waterproof boots as it can be very wet! Be mindful of the wash from the flotilla and the changing tide.
Usually, there are two bank-side fan parks for eager spectators: one at Bishop’s Park in Fulham (the beginning of the race), and one at Furnivall Gardens in Hammersmith (the half way mark).
If you’re planning on heading to the Thames at Chiswick, here are the best riverside pubs for spectators.
1 CHISWICK PIER
Of all the good viewing points on the Middlesex bank, all the way from The Dove in Hammersmith to Dukes Meadow, Chiswick Pier is one of the best as one of the crews will often put in a decisive push for the finish line at this stage. Address: The Pier House, Corney Reach Way, Chiswick, W4 2UG
2 THE EMMANUEL SCHOOL BOATHOUSE
Located close to Barnes Bridge on the Middlesex bank, The Emanuel School Boathouse offers spectacular views of the final stages of the race. Address: The Promenade, Chiswick W4 2SH
3 DUKES MEADOW
A large park and recreation ground adjacent to the river between Chiswick Bridge and Barnes Bridge on the Middlesex bank, Dukes Meadow provides views of the final stage of the race. Address: Dan Mason Drive, Chiswick W4 2SH
The key tube stations for spectators are Putney Bridge, Hammersmith and Kew Gardens, or use Putney, Barnes Bridge, Mortlake and Chiswick rail stations.