The annual Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race is fast approaching, and many people are getting excited about going down and supporting their chosen university and soaking up the competitive atmosphere.

If you're planning on going down and watching from the streets, here's our guide to the event itself as well as when and where to go.

Why is it so important?

The annual Oxford and Cambridge boat race is back for the 161st time. Having started in 1829 as a challenge between friends, the boat race has become an incredibly competitive event.

The fastest record, set by Cambridge in 1998, is 16 minutes and 19 seconds.

The atmosphere will be building up along the course all day, so it's a perfect time to take a walk by the river or enjoy a pint and soak up the excitement.

This year is set to be an even more important event than in previous years. For the first time, The Newton Women’s Boat Race will take place on the same day as the men's and be held on the same course (the women's race has previously taken place in Henley), so get down early and support the girls!

Where does it take place?

A four-and-a-quarter mile course along the River Thames, from Putney to Mortlake. The course starts at Putney Bridge, winds up to Hammersmith Bridge, past Barnes Railway Bridge, then finishes at Chiswick Bridge.

The course runs through several areas of west London, including Hammersmith and Fulham.

When is it?

The event takes place on Saturday April 11, from 5.50pm (the women's race begins at 4.50pm).

Are there any road closures?

There are no planned road closures for the event, but traffic is expected to be heavy. Work on Chiswick bridge is currently in operation, but is due to be complete for race day.

How do I get there?

Start line: Putney Bridge, nearest stations: Putney Bridge (two-minute walk) and Putney (seven-minute walk)

Midpoint: Hammersmith Bridge, nearest stations: Hammersmith (10-minute walk) and Baron's Court (20-minute walk)

Finish line: Chiswick Bridge, nearest stations: Mortlake (10-minute walk), Barnes Bridge (20-minute walk) and Chiswick (15-minute walk)

Or if you'd prefer to watch it at home, it's on BBC1 from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

Getwestlondon will also be live-blogging the event on the day so you can join us for the latest updates.

Where should I watch the race?

If you'd like to witness all the action with a pint and some food, we've compiled a handy Boat Race pub guide, which details some of the pubs you can go to with a view of the river.

Hammersmith Bridge, Putney Bridge and Chiswick Bridge will provide the best viewpoints, so get there early if you'd like a sure chance at seeing the rowers.

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Will you be going down to watch the boat race this year?