The Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge is a world-renowned sporting event. The iconic race is held on the River Thames in London and draws thousands of spectators annually. If you are in London during spring, you should not miss The Boat Race. Let’s discuss the history of the race, why is it unique and why is it best to hire a chauffeur service in London to experience the event.
A Brief History of The Boat Race
The Oxford vs Cambridge Boat Race has a rich history. The race originated in 1829 when Charles Wordsworth of Oxford challenged his friend Charles Merivale of Cambridge to a rowing contest. Almost every year after that, the race has been held annually, even during the world wars and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The two competing teams are the rowing crews of Cambridge University Boat Club and Oxford University Boat Club. Each crew consists of eight rowers and one coxswain (a steerman). The race is on a 4.2-mile (6.8 km) section of the River Thames between Mortlake and Putney in London.
Why is The Boat Race So Popular?
Here are the reasons why the Boat race is very popular:
Rich Tradition
The Boat Race is not merely a sporting event. It is a British tradition and academic rivalry symbol. For nearly 200 years, Oxford and Cambridge have been competing in this thrilling race.
Exciting Competition
Both teams practice rigorously for months to prepare for the race. The competition is intense and the result is unpredictable. Some races have been decided by mere seconds, so it is an exciting experience for viewers.
Scenic Location
The race takes place on the River Thames, one of the most famous rivers in the world. Spectators can watch the race from various points along the river and enjoy the scenic views of London.
Free to Watch
Unlike many sporting events, The Boat Race is completely free to watch. You can find a good spot along the river and enjoy the excitement without paying for a ticket.
Best Locations to View The Boat Race
Here are the best spots to watch The Boat Race:
Putney Bridge
It is the starting point of the race. It is an ideal location to watch the teams take off.
Hammersmith Bridge
This is an excellent place with a good view as the boats pass underneath the bridge. It is among the favourite viewing spots for people.
Chiswick Eyot
A tiny island in the Thames, this is a less busy place to view the race.
Barnes Bridge
This is close to the end of the race. It is an excellent place to view the final stages of the competition.
Mortlake
This is the finishing point. Viewing the teams cross the finishing line is an experience you will never forget.
Other Activities to Do Around The Boat Race
If you’re attending The Boat Race, you may also want to explore nearby attractions:
Riverside Pubs
Numerous traditional British pubs along the Thames offer food and drinks where you can sit and view the race. Some of the most popular pubs are The Dove, The White Hart and The Ship.
Richmond Park
A short drive from the race course, Richmond Park is a lovely spot to unwind and watch wild deer.
The National Gallery
If you are an art lover, you can go to The National Gallery in central London before or post the race. It contains world-famous paintings by Van Gogh, Monet and Leonardo da Vinci.
Shopping on King’s Road
If shopping is your passion, King’s Road in Chelsea has excellent boutiques and designer shops.
Thames River Cruise
Following the race, go on a river cruise along the Thames to experience the beauty of London from the river.
Why Opt for Westway Ride for The Boat Race
The Boat Race is attended by Large crowds, so traffic jams and parking issues are common. To avoid these hassles, ensure a smooth experience by booking a chauffeur service such as Westway Ride. Here’s why:
Hassle-Free Travel
A professional driver will take you from where you are and drop you at the optimum viewing location. You will not need to go through congested roads or struggle to find a parking space.
Professional Chauffeurs
We offer professional chauffeurs who are courteous and uniform. From luggage handling to door-to-door service, they will make sure your journey is as smooth as possible.
Luxury and Comfort
Westway Ride provides luxury cars such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Rolls-Royce. You will have a pleasant ride with plush, ergonomic seating, air conditioning and a stress-free journey.
Time-Saving
With a chauffeur, you don’t waste time stuck in traffic or searching for public transport. Your chauffeur will take the optimal routes to have you arrive on time.
No Parking Headaches
Parking close to the race can be tricky. With a chauffeur, you don’t have to worry about it at all. The driver will drop you to your destination and bring you back when you’re ready to go.
Customised Service
Westway Ride offers tailored services based on your needs. Whether you want to watch the finishing point of the race or visit multiple locations.
Conclusion
The Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge is an event not to be missed in London. It is a historic, exciting and free event that draws thousands of spectators annually. As a result, reaching the race can be stressful due to massive crowds and traffic. With Westway Ride, you can watch the event without hassle. A well-trained chauffeur will get you there in style and comfort so that you can enjoy the thrill of the race.
FAQs
1. When will the boat race happen?
The Boat Race will take place on Sunday 13 April. It attracts hundreds of spectators from around the world.
2. Is Westway Ride ideal for group travel?
Yes, we provide spacious SUVs and MPVs that are perfect for group travel.
3. Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel your booking and get a full refund upon cancellation (terms and conditions apply).
4. Does Westway Ride provide safety?
Yes, we ensure your safety by offering highly trained chauffeurs and well-maintained vehicles.
