Women’s Eights Head of the River Race

The Women’s Eights Head of the River Race is the largest women’s rowing race in the world, with up to 320 crews and close to 3,000 rowers, from Olympic champions to novices in their first season. Crews turn and cross the start line five seconds apart from 3.15pm and race the Championship Course against the clock, with the finish and the prize-giving in Putney.

The race began in the 1930s with five crews. It is the only race in the UK where novices compete on the same course as Olympic champions, and more than 200 volunteers and officials run it. Crews and supporters celebrate afterwards in the Putney rowing clubs.

Suitable for: All ages. Free to watch from the riverside.

Accessibility: Viewing is from the public riverside at Putney Embankment. Expect crowds, crews carrying boats and boat trailers on the embankment on race day.

Booking: No booking or tickets needed for spectators.