Everyone knows the London Marathon. Everyone knows the Boat Races. But did you know that every September, there's a third major event that's a mash-up of the two? The Great River Race is a thrilling 21.6-mile long dash along the Thames. Here's the skinny on 2024's event.
What is the Great River Race?
Starting out in 1988 as a relatively small event, the Great River Race has grown to feature over 250 rowing boat crews of all shapes and sizes. You'll see skiffs to regal-looking barges to Viking-style long boats. Participants row the 21.6-mile course along the Thames from Millwall to Richmond, all vying to win a coveted Great Race trophy. It makes for a seriously fun day out for spectators, and *whisper it* there's a far better chance the weather will be sunny, than during the more famous Boat Races.
When's it happening?
Saturday 21 September 2024. Crews set off from at Millwall Riverside, Westferry Road from 1.15pm — although they'll be congregating around here for a while beforehand. The fastest time for boats to complete the course is around two hours, but some will pooter along at a more leisurely pace, finishing up to four hours after starting.
Where's the best place to watch from?
The 28 bridges beneath which the riverine marathon passes are solid spots for watching the action: any bridge, in fact, between Tower Bridge and Richmond Bridge. This schedule shows you roughly when the boats will go beneath major bridges. Alternatively, you can watch from the river bank — just make sure you get your timings right! To see crews set off, you'll want to catch them at the slips at Millwall Riverside, and to see them finish/handed trophies (then presumably head off down the pub), it's the bucolic stretch of water outside Ham House in Richmond.
Speaking of pubs, you may wish to watch the boats pass from the comfort of a riverside pub, in which case, booking a table is a sound idea. Also check out our roundup of London's best Thames-side pubs.
Can I take part in the race?
Like the London Marathon itself, although professional athletes compete in the Great River Race, plenty of amateur rowers — some raising money for charity, some in fancy dress — also take part. If you've got a boat — and you know how to row it — then yes, you can take part! Read the entry details here. Alas, entries for 2024 are now closed, but plan ahead if you want to take part in 2025.
Great River Race, Saturday 21 September 2024, free to watch.
