Putney is renowned for its prominent role in the sport of rowing. The Embankment is home to some of the most esteemed rowing clubs in the UK producing several Olympians and World Champions. London Rowing Club was founded in 1856, and Thames Rowing Club in 1860.
The Tideway in Putney is home to numerous major international rowing competitions, such as the Head of the River Race series including Men’s Head, Women’s Head, Schools and Veterans, which attract hundreds of teams from all around the world. The Head of the River races finish in Putney.
The dates for 2025 are:
- Saturday 8 March – Women’s Eight Head of the River
- Saturday 15 March – Head of the River Race (Men’s)
- Sunday 23 March – Veterans Head
- Tuesday 25 March – Schools Head of the River
The most famous rowing event is The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race which starts in Putney. Each year, the University teams race along the 4.2-mile course from Putney Bridge to Chiswick Bridge, drawing viewers from all around the globe.
In 2025 it will be held on Sunday 13th April. The Women’s race starts at 13.21 and the Men’s race at 14.21.
The Oxford and Cambridge University Boat Races, dating back to 1829 and 1927, respectively, are among the most historic sporting events worldwide. The men’s race was relocated to the current Tideway course in 1836, while the women continued to compete in Henley, wearing full-length skirts, and the initial races were determined based on “time and style,” with the two crews not allowed to race side-by-side.
In 2015, history was made as both the men’s and women’s Boat Races were held on the same day and on the same stretch of water along the Thames in London, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s history.
