The Boat Race is as much a British institution as the pub. So, what better than mixing the two together? If you’re searching for the best pubs to watch the The Boat Race, look no further.
From Putney to Mortlake, the Championship course winds its way past many pubs and whether you’re looking to watch the race at the start, middle or finish you have plenty of options.
A packed pub not your scene? Then check out our fan parks at Hammersmith or Fulham where the big screens and street food trucks won’t let you miss out on any of the action or go hungry.
THE START
Blade clashes, nervous start line crabs and huge anticipation make the start of the race an exciting point to watch. If you’re an eager spectator and want to watch the start of The Boat Race here are the best pubs.
THE DUKES HEAD
“She has enjoyed this uniquely British battle of the oars for over a Century,” reads the official description of The Duke’s Head and the pub takes Boat Race Day seriously.
Offering a fantastic view of the start, the Dukes Head is a great place to sip a pint and see pre-race paddles.
With an outside bar, a BBQ and live music to kick off the evening celebrations, The Dukes Head is a great pub to watch the Boat Race.
MIDWAY POINT
80 percent of the crews leading at Hammersmith Bridge go on to win making it a vital point to watch the race. If crews are neck and neck, the coxes battle to aim for the second lamp post from the left as they pass under the bridge makes it an exciting viewpoint and luckily for us there are plenty of pubs to watch from.
THE BLUE ANCHOR
Go upstairs at the Blue Anchor to witness the best view of the racecourse and make the most of its prime position on the riverbank.
THE RUTLAND ARMS
Sandwiched between Furnivall rowing club and the Riverside Studios theatre, The Rutland Arms is a great pub to watch the racing and a bit roomier than its neighbour the Blue Anchor.
THE DOVE
As old as the Boat Race itself, the Dove is a great pub to soak up the tradition of race day.
A vine-entangled conservatory makes a pleasant spot to watch the river from. Race day will be busy so if you can’t get in head to our Hammersmith fan zone next door in Furnival gardens.
THE END
As all Oxford and Cambridge rowers know, the race is not over until it’s over so if you’re hoping to see a tight finish or incredible comebacks here are the best pubs to watch the finish from.
THE BULLS HEAD
Located just before Barnes Bridge, watch the crews in comfort as they gear up for the finish line.
THE WHITE HART
With everything from barbecues to outdoor bars to music that will keep you partying throughout the afternoon, the White Hart is a great place to celebrate the Boat Race. As one of the last stops before the finish line, the White Hart is a great place to buy a celebratory drink if your team is winning.
THE SHIP
The Ship remains famous for being on the finishing line of the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race since 1845.
As well as a great view of the famous event itself, the Ship will also have an outside bar, BBQ, and live music.
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So here’s our lowdown into the best pubs to watch the Boat Race.
Words: Olivia Bothamley-Dakin