The Boat Race
Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race 2017
Along the Thames - from Putney to Mortlake
2 APRIL 2017
Free
The only thing more British than a glass of Pimms on a sunny afternoon, is a glass of Pimms on a sunny afternoon whilst watching the Oxford v Cambridge boat races. Founded in 1927, but running as a annual event since the 60's the boat race sees the two University powerhouses go neck and neck along the Thames river.
Around 300,000 people are expected each year along the banks of the river from Putney to Mortlake. However, these aren't all toffs, as many people just see it as a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon, surrounded by people, booze and competition. It's like going down the pub to watch the footie - anyone is welcome, and best of all it's completely free! The women's race kicks off at 4:35pm, followed by the men's at 5:35pm and each race lasts around 18 minutes.
Majority of people (like me) just went to enjoy the excellent weather we had on Sunday, and to use it as an excuse for some serious day drinking. There are a number of places holding special events for the day, and plenty of pubs to take shelter if the weather doesn't hold up. Some of the best views come from the towpath along Putney Embankment, Hammersmith Bridge, Chiswick Pier and Dukes Meadow. I went to Furnival Gardens, a park right along the river bank, which had stalls, portaloos and was packed full of people who had probably been there since that morning.
Amongst all of the Rah's, the cigars and the occasional champagne cork being flung overhead was an overall friendly, happy and civilised vibe. I would recommend going to see the races at least once, with enough pimms and chat to last you through the day.
OVERALL RATING: ****
http://theboatraces.org/
