The Boat Race
Pubs along the Boat Race route
From the race’s starting point in Putney, to further along the Thames in Barnes and Hammersmith, the banks of the River Thames is lined with fantastic pubs to enjoy the race from. For those who need a little help deciding, we’ve compiled a list of the best pubs at each point along the route.
West London’s best spot for the Boat Race, Old Ship, Hammersmith
Whether you’re batting for Oxford or Cambridge, grab your take-away drinks and let the good times roll as we cheer on both teams and have the best atmosphere in all of London with live music cranking up the energy, we are officially the hottest spot on the river this Boat Race. Row your way to us and may the best team (hopefully your team!) take home the victory.
Boat Race At The Coat and Badge
The Cambridge vs Oxford boat race is back! Join us with your crew for all the live rowing action on our many TV’s and sink your teeth into our yummy food from our Burger Shack. With extra bars outside in our beer garden, live music and a DJ, this promises to be the best party in Putney! We have beers, ciders, cocktails, spirits…whatever floats your boat!
Boat Race at The Spotted Horse
2026, Putney high street will be full of people getting ready to catch the boats leaving, and The Spotted Horse are ready to keep the party going. With live music, outdoor bars, tasty sandwiches for you to grab on the go, and a rowing machine charity competition leading up to the big day (where you can win an exceptional amount of beer!). It will be a party in the pub and a sun-trapped escape on the Juniper terrace.
Boat Race at The Boathouse
Boat race is finally back, and we’re doing it in style! From bubbles on the terrace, multiple bars, live music, and of course the most amazing views. Limited booking is available, but walk ins are always welcome.
Oars at the ready at Coach and Horses, Barnes
The Annual Boat Race on the Thames between Cambridge and Oxford is back!
Stop by the Coach and Horses, Barnes for a juicy Shack Burger and some curly fries, before collecting your take away pint and making the short walk to the Thames to watch these these two prestigious Universities battle it out on the water.
But don’t forget to join us after the victors are crowned for the after party!
Boat Race at The Duke’s Head
Old time rivals Oxford and Cambridge once again go head-to-head in the annual boat race – but who will claim the 2026 bragging rights? Join us at the race’s starting point and enjoy yummy food from our riverside BBQ, fresh pints from our multiple pop-up bars, and live music and DJ’s until late. This promises to be THE place to party in Putney in 2026.
We’re not taking bookings for the day – all spaces will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to get up early and grab your spot before anyone else.
Boat Race at The Half Moon
Catch every moment on screens throughout our pub, and indulge in mouth-watering burgers from the shack and our outside bar.
After the race, we’ll be keeping the celebration alive with three live bands, two of which offer free entry right after the race. What’s more, we’ll have a DJ will be spinning tracks in the bar until the late hours. Without a doubt, this is the ultimate place to be for a day filled with rowing, delicious bites, and sensational live entertainment.
The best Boat Race pubs along the route
Bull's Head
Barnes, London SW13 9PY
Parties
Weddings
Private Bar
Private Dining
Live Music
Newly refurbished with an illustrious musical heritage, this riverside pub sits at the top of Barnes High Street serving seasonal food and an array of drinks.
Coach & Horses
Barnes, London SW13 9LW
Parties
One of the best pubs in Barnes, serving a fine selection of cask conditioned real ales, craft beers, wines, gins, and a large garden.
Coat & Badge
Putney, London SW15 1NL
Parties
Situated a 5 minute walk from Putney station away from the hustle and bustle of Putney high street.
Duke's Head
Putney, London SW15 1JN
Parties
Weddings
Nestled on the banks of the River Thames, a stunning Victorian Grade II listed building has been host to over a century of celebrations.
Half Moon
Putney, London SW15 1EU
Parties
Live Music
A historic pub and music venue in the heart of Putney. A short walk from Putney Bridge and Putney overground station.
Old Ship
Hammersmith, London W6 9TD
Parties
Private Bar
Private Dining
Weddings
A beautiful 300 year old pub, situated on the banks of the River Thames. A short walk from Ravenscourt Park, Stamford Brook and Hammersmith station.
Spotted Horse
Putney, London SW15 1RG
Parties
Right on Putney High Street and just a short walk from Putney station.
The Boathouse
Putney, London SW15 2JX
Parties
A charming riverside pub in the heart of Putney. Serving up the finest and freshest seafood in the area, locally sourced and prepared by the skilled chefs.
White Hart
Barnes, London SW13 0NR
Parties
Private Dining
Built in 1662 and rebuilt in 1899, this beautiful pub sits on the banks of the Thames in the heart of Barnes. Perfect for events and famed for its sunsets.
A little closer to the universities
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Oxford University
Oxford University
Cambridge University
Cambridge University
