The highly anticipated annual boat race of the year returns to the River Thames this weekend. 

Oxford and Cambridge universities battle it out to be named the champions in a tradition that's now in its 169th year. 

Every year thousands take to the banks of the Thames hoping to catch a glimpse of the two going head to head in both the men's and women's races.

2024 will see both Cambridge men's and women's teams hope to hold off Oxford for another year and claim the winner's title for back-to-back years.

Whether you were planning on heading down to watch the main event or staying in the comfort of your own home, we've got everything you need to know, from how to watch, the route, and what time the races will start. 

When is the Boat Race 2024?

The Boat Race 2024 will be taking place on Saturday, March 30 along the River Thames in London. 

What time does the Boat Race start?

Four races will take place on the day, with the women's race first and ending with the men's. 

  • 14.46- 78th Women’s Boat Race
  • 15.01- Osiris v Blondie Race
  • 15.16- Isis v Goldie Boat Race
  • 15.46- 169th Men’s Boat Race

The Boat Race Route

The race follows the same route every year starting at Putney near Putney Bridge and the iconic The Duke's Head pub. 

Along the way, the race goes under Hammersmith Bridge and past Chiswick Eyot as well as many pubs that will be filled with spectators. 

The last leg of the race goes through Corney Beach and under Barnes Bridge with the finish line at Chiswick Bridge. 

How to watch the Boat Race:

If you want to watch the tense scenes then you're in luck, with the BBC once again covering the sporting event. 

The Boat Race coverage will be across BBC platforms including BBC One, iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.

Coverage will start on BBC One at 2pm and will last until 4.30pm hosted on BBC One.