Oxford & Cambridge Boat Races

The world famous sporting event between Oxford and Cambridge was first held in 1829. The 4¼ mile Thames course from Putney to Mortlake is over three times as long as the Olympic course. First raced in 1829 and 1927 respectively, the boat races are amongst the oldest sporting events in the world. March 2024 will see the running of the 169th Boat Race and 78th Women's Boat Race, both now taking place on the Championship Course. Watched by thousands along the banks of the Tideway, between Putney and Mortlake in London, and by millions more on TV around the world, boat races are a unique sporting event. With four very strong squads of athletes, expect to see great races this year. Enjoy the festival atmosphere of the boat race by watching for free from one of the many vantage points along the course.

You should be able to find a place to watch on either side of the river along the full length of the course, but particular areas to note are:

The Hammersmith Fan Park:​
Located in Furnival Gardens, the fan park will have a big screen available for everyone to watch the BBC coverage live. There will be delicious street food and beer from Shepherd Neame, Britain’s Oldest Brewer. There are covered areas, seating, toilets and lots of stands from our official partners.

The Fulham Fan Zone
This Fan Park is devoted to fun for all the family!​
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The fan park will have big screens available for everyone to watch the BBC coverage live. There will be delicious street food and Chapel Down, our Official Boat Race Celebration Partner will be serving English Sparking Wine.

There are covered areas beneath the stand, seating, toilets and lots of stands from our official partners. Fulham FC is located next to the River Thames in West London and is adjacent to Bishop’s Park, one of the area’s most popular and well-used parks. It is Grade II listed in English Heritage’s Register of Parks and Gardens of special historic interest.
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The Fulham Fan Zone is located near to the start of The Boat Race.