Get Set for This Year's Great River Race

As ever Chiswick Pier provides the perfect viewing location

A previous Great River Race

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August 15, 2026

The Great River Race will once again bring colour, noise and spectacle to the Thames this September, with hundreds of crews powering upstream past Chiswick in one of London’s most distinctive sporting traditions. As part of the Totally Thames Festival, the 21-mile race begins at Millwall and finishes at Ham, but for spectators on this stretch of the river, Chiswick Pier provides the ideal viewing spot.

The race on Saturday 12 September starts at Docklands at around 12.45 under its unique handicap system, which sends the slowest boats off first and the fastest last. That means the first crews are expected to reach Chiswick Pier at about 2.45pm, with boats continuing to pass for at least an hour. For residents, it is one of the best opportunities of the year to see the Thames at its most animated, with vessels ranging from traditional skiffs and cutters to coastal rowing boats, gigs and outriggers.

Chiswick Pier offers an uninterrupted view of a long stretch of the river, making it one of the prime vantage points along the route. The Pier will open from 11.30am, with food stalls, ice cream, refreshments and a bar available throughout the afternoon. Crowds typically gather early, enjoying the build-up before the first crews appear around the bend.

This year’s race will feature around 275 crews rowing 21.6 miles on the tidal Thames, passing under all 28 London bridges and past landmarks from Canary Wharf to Kew. Competitors come from across the world, representing youth organisations, schools, rowing clubs and community groups. Many embrace the celebratory spirit by racing in elaborate fancy dress or raising money for charities, adding to the colour of the day.

The Great River Race is organised by a charitable trust and delivered by volunteers, and has grown into the largest event of its kind in Europe.

Chiswick Pier Trust works to engage people with the River Thames. It provides access to the Thames and supports major river events, as well as organising events of its own.

For information on Chiswick Pier Trust membership check the Chiswick Pier Trust's web site.

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