The Boat Race 2026
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About
The Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge is one of the oldest sporting rivalries in the world — two eights racing 4 miles and 374 yards along the Thames from Putney to Mortlake. It's been held annually since 1829 (with interruptions for wars), and on race day the towpath and riverside pubs fill with hundreds of thousands of spectators. The best viewing spots are the towpath from Putney Bridge to Chiswick, or the pubs along the route — The Ship in Mortlake, the Duke's Head in Putney, and The Blue Anchor in Hammersmith all get packed early. The race itself is over in about 17 minutes, but the build-up and aftermath last all day. It's free to watch from the towpath. The race is broadcast live on the BBC. Pick a side (dark blue Oxford, light blue Cambridge — or just go with the underdog) and commit. The atmosphere is festive and good-natured. The women's race, now held on the same day and course, has grown enormously in profile. Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially near the start at Putney.
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