The annual boat race between Cambridge and Oxford takes place this Sunday (March 26) and it’s set to be off the hook. This year, it’s once again known as The Gemini Boat Race and, being one of the world’s oldest sporting races, this year marks the 168th Men’s Boat Race and the 77th Women’s Boat Race.
Following the route of The Championship Course, which is 4 miles, 6.8km or 374 yards long, the race travels between Putney and Mortlake on the River Thames. This historical route was adopted in 1845 and has been the course of choice ever since.
When is the Oxford vs Cambridge boat race?
This Sunday, March 26. The day’s schedule is as follows:
- 1.55pm – Broadcast starts on BBC and coin toss;
- 4pm – Oxford vs Cambridge Women’s boat race starts;
- 4.15pm – Osiris vs Blondie boat race starts;
- 4.30pm – Isis vs Goldie boat race starts;
- 5pm – Oxford vs Cambridge Men’s boat race starts;
- 5.30-6pm – Trophy presentations.
Where can I watch the Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race?
Even if you’re not a huge fan of boating, the atmosphere is always electric so why not go down to the Thames, hitch up a spot and watch the competition unfold? Events usually kick off around midday on Sunday. (Don’t worry, the BBC are live broadcasting if you’re too busy *cough* lazy *cough* to head down).
Both Bishop’s Park in Fulham and the Adnam’s Fan Park in Furnivall Gardens are great points for a birdseye view (they’re situated alongside the course) and, after the boats go past, there are screens to watch the drama unfold with a cold beer from one of the tents.
The Crabtree are also hosting their Crabtree Boat Race event where entry is completely free and doors open early at 10am! Situated on the riverbank between Hammersmith and Putney bridges, expect a prime view of the race from the riverside, or from one of their 10 screens.
There will be plenty of food and drink choices serving up traditional and street food options (even veggie and gluten-free choices!) and a garden lined with pop-up bars. Estrella Galicia and Pimms will be providing the tipples – frozen margaritas hello – while the live music will see you into the night.
Pubs such as The Old Ship in Hammersmith, The Boathouse and The Duke’s Head in Putney and The Bull’s Head and White Hart in Barnes all also offer some spectacular views of the Thames – and they’re a prime spot for some riverside pints and tasty grub.
For something even more special, why not head to Rick Stein in Barnes, which is doing a limited-edition ‘Boat Race Celebration’ menu available from 3–6pm. It costs £95 per person and includes three courses of Stein’s signature seafood dishes – as well as views of the race too. Sign. Us. Up!
What will the weather be like for the Oxford Vs Cambridge boat race?
Even though Spring is basically here – and London looks bloody great in the Springtime – the weather for the race is set to be, *gulp*, not so great for the event, although it’s due to be slightly warmer than the days leading up so… every cloud? Fingers crossed the gods up in the sky are kind and here’s hoping the teams aren’t feeling any pier pressure because that would surely rock the boat, eh? We’ll stop now…
Who has won the most Oxford vs Cambridge boat races?
Oxford will be hoping to close the gap in the men’s race, as their 81 wins sits them four behind Cambridge’s total of 85. For the women’s race the gap is even bigger, with Cambridge also holding the bragging rights of 46 wins to Oxford’s 30.
Find more information about the races here.