10 of the Most Conveniently Situated Properties for the Boat Race

From riverside Oxford homes to luxurious Putney penthouses and hidden Cambridge gems, we’ve found the best homes for this weekend’s Boat Race…

1. Varsity Row, Mortlake

Georgian architecture in candyfloss pink with wisteria creeping up its side, this property’s facade is just as dreamy as its locale. Set within an exclusive gated neighbourhood, the three-storey house is exceptional with high ceilings, a private garden, spacious bedrooms (one of which features floor to ceiling windows overlooking the River Thames). Varsity Row also offers unbeatable views of the Boat Race finishing line so you can get up close and personal with the often nail-biting end. Once sufficiently inspired, head to the nearby Putney Town Rowing Club to start training for next year’s race. Available through Marsh & Parsons for £1.695m

2. Penelope, Putney

Forget your preconceptions about floating homes, the Penelope is not your run-of-the-mill barge. Thoughtfully proportioned and beautifully laid out, you won’t need be ducking or fighting for space on this two-storey bright and airy vessel. Moored at Riverside Quarter, she enjoys sensational views down the River Thames towards the starting line of the Boat Race and Putney Bridge – sit top deck with a glass of Pimms and watch the action unfold without jostling for room amidst crowds. Plus, as a resident of Riverside Quarter owners benefit from its exceptional leisure facilities including swimming pool, gym and sauna. Available through Savills for £1.75m

3. Cedars Road, Barnes

This beautiful Edwardian house is a haven of nature right in the city. Sitting in a quiet residential cul-de-sac, the home overlooks Barnes Common, Barnes Pond as well as The Wildfowl & Wetlands 100 acre Wetland Centre – but most importantly boasts pleasant towpath walk along the River Thames, ideal for Boat Race watching. The home is spacious and modern whilst retaining an English charm, with its main highlight being the stunning conservatory at the rear of the home – we’re also big fans of the snug little breakfast nook in the open plan kitchen. Available through Savills for £2.8m

4. Boat Race House, Mortlake

It does what it says on the tin – albeit, a very beautiful one. The striking development not only hugs the river but is positioned right at the finish of the Boat Race – you simply cannot get closer to the action. All fourteen of the apartments boast private balconies ideal for a languid afternoon spent lounging in the sun, wining and dining before watching the most exciting part of the race, away from the crowds. Soak up all the atmosphere without any of the discomfort. Although absolutely perfect for viewing, the property was not solely built for the Boat Race, and besides premium seats to the spectacle, Boat Race House also boasts comfortable luxury living with a series of apartments ranging from 538 to 1,883 sq ft – we’re certainly partial to the two penthouses up top. Available through Chestertons from £485,000

 

5. ONE Putney, Putney

ONE Putney is an exceptional art Deco-inspired development of just fifteen 2-3 bedroom luxury apartments situated amid the pubs and restaurants of buzzy Putney. Just moments from the river, you’re ideally situated for Boat Race watching whilst still being close enough to home that you’re not caught in the commuter crowds heading home afterwards. Although its locale is great, the apartments themselves certainly aren’t too shabby either, with capacious living areas and private terraces sweetening the deal. Available through James Pendleton from £695,000

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6. Maid’s Causeway, Cambridge

This Grade II listen classic regency townhouse strikes the delicate balance between quaint and grand; while its Queen Anne facade and Lions Head knocker exude old-timey opulence, the home’s exposed floorboards and overall charm imbues something warmer. A bold but tasteful colour palette, featuring red and royal blue accent walls, is an stylish update on this traditional home complete with moulded cornicing, period style radiators and a natural timber handrail. In the summertime, you’ll benefit from the property’s generous rear garden. And while you’re nowhere near the River Thames, the house affords views over River Cam (which is far less polluted). For those donning the duck-egg Cambridge Blue, this fantastic home is an idyllic base. Available through Cheffins for £2.1m

7. Bishop’s Row, Fulham

These elegant new-build 4-5 bed properties occupy prime real estate on Stevenage Road, Fulham. The luxurious development runs parallel to the River Thames, affording incredible views of the Boat Race – which you can watch in comfort on the property’s piece de resistance; the spacious rooftop terrace. Each of the townhouses are perfect for family living that doesn’t make concessions on luxury. Abundant bedrooms sprawl over 5 floors, as well as a gym, cinema room and covered courtyard garden with a “walk on” glass ceiling. You’ll definitely be hosting Boat Race viewing parties here. Available through Strutt & Parker for £4.885m

8. Lonsdale Road, Barnes

Lonsdale Road is one for those who like their riverside living with a healthy dose of contemporary luxury. This exceptional new build house overlooks the River Thames, so you can watch the action all while barbequing up some burgers in the south-facing garden. Alternatively, have breakfast in bed and thanks to the suite’s sitting area overlooking the river, you can watch all the excitement without ever leaving your bedroom. You’ll find every need attended to in this property, which features a family room with built-in cinema plus electric curtain, a SONOS entertainment system with invisible speakers installed, a gym area and shower room, as well as a plant room. Available through Knight Frank for £3.25m

9. Festing Road, Putney

This four-bedroom home in Putney offers peaceful living without the isolation. The period home sits opposite Leaders Garden, and is only a short walk from the Boat Race’s starting line (so you can get there early and nab the good spots). The spacious open plan kitchen-cum-dining-room features glass doors that open up into the property’s outdoor patio area and garden, perfect for entertaining for events. Located alongside West Putney’s embankment, the nearby Lower Richmond Road and its host of boutiques and brunch spots mean there’s plenty to do long after the oars have been put away. Available through Knight Frank for £1.675m

10. Grove Farm, Oxfordshire

This Grade II listed property dates back to 1700, and its age shows in the best of ways. Thanks to a loving and sensitive restoration by the owners, a myriad of period features run throughout the property and its distinguishable architecture. Other than the principal house, the property comprises formal gardens, woodland and productive pasture land so nature lovers feel right at home. If you’re team navy for the Boat Race and can’t make it to London, you can’t do much better than a screen viewing at this country home in Oxfordshire. Available through Hamptons for £1.75m

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