London's Red-Hot River Rowing Race
The heat is on for two British institutions
Get to London and be a part of the 155th Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, on 29 March.
Enjoy the festival atmosphere with around 250,000 spectators, who line the Thames from Putney to Mortlake to cheer on the rowers. The most popular spots along the 4-mile route include Putney Bridge, Putney Embankment, Bishops Park, Hammersmith, Barnes, Dukes Meadows and the finishing line at Chiswick Bridge.
Big screens at Bishops Park in Fulham, and Furnival Gardens in Hammersmith, will show the entire race.
The annual competition, which began in 1829, sees the Cambridge University and Oxford University boat clubs go head-to-head on the Thames. Cambridge currently lead the series overall, although Oxford won the 2008 race. This year's event kicks off at 3.40pm at Putney Bridge.
Make a weekend of it
There's loads to see and do around the Boat Race course. So after the main event, why not grab a bite to eat and find somewhere to stay.
Start your Sunday with this AA Walk, which starts at the London Wetland Centre.
Then explore Hogarth's House or Chiswick House; and if the sun's shining why not head to Kew Gardens before checking out Kew Palace?
Nearby Syon House is also worth a visit. The London residence of the Duke of Northumberland is set in 200 acres of parkland.
There are countless AA travel guides to London. Click here to see the full range.
Check out our other inspirational ideas for days out and weekend breaks.
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Updated March 2009
Official race photo © Phil Searle 2007