The Oxford and Cambridge boat race is just around the corner.

The four-and-a-quarter mile course along the River Thames, from Putney to Mortlake runs through several areas of west London, including Hammersmith and Fulham, so there's no need to travel too far to witness the action.

If you fancy relaxing with a riverside pint while watching the two universities battle it out for the 161st time, we've put together a list of pubs on the Thames with a view of the action:

The Bulls Head

Set in the heart of Barnes village, this relaxed riverside pub, and legendary jazz venue, is located in a prominent spot overlooking the River Thames. With a fantastic atmosphere and even better views, look out for music events and BBQ's around the boat race weekend.

373 Lonsdale Road, SW13 9PY – 020 8876 5241

The Crabtree

With beautiful gardens overlooking the river and live music playing, this pub is the place to be if you want to watch the beginning of the race.

Rainville Road, Fulham, W6 9HA – 020 7385 3929

The Half Moon

Situated near the banks of the Thames at Putney Bridge, The Half Moon has been entertaining patrons with live music for decades. That said, if you're simply looking for a 'real' pub to enjoy a pint of quality beer on race day then it's the place to go.

93 Lower Richmond Road, SW15 1EU - 020 8780 9383

The Coat and Badge

If you're looking for somewhere slightly back from the river, away from the madding crowds, then the oasis of calm of the Coat and Badge is for you. With a large, sunny garden hidden behind the laurel hedge, it's perfect for people watching, BBQ's, and fine fresh English food washed down with ales a plenty.

8 Lacy Road, Putney, SW15 1NL - 020 8788 4900

The Dove

A charming pub owned by Fullers Brewery and overlooking the Thames, you won't find a place more steeped in history than The Dove. Charles the 2 used to frequent it, and it has been said the poet James Thomson composed 'Rule Britannia' in the pub.

19 Upper Mall, Hammersmith, W6 9TA - 020 8748 9474

The Blue Anchor

A family-run riverside pub, around the midpoint of the boat race. The upstairs 'River Room' has views of the Thames, so head up there for a glimpse of the action. They will be holding an outside bar and barbecue for those wanting a close-up view.

13 Lower Mall, Hammersmith, W6 9DJ – 020 87485774

Ship

This pub has a view of the finish line, so come down to Ship for a view of the exciting end-point. With a barbecue, and a DJ playing into the evening, you'll have fun no matter which team you support.

10 Thames Bank, London, SW14 7QR – 020 8876 1439

The Duke's Head

This pretty Victorian pub has watched over the river Thames for nearly 150 years. Sitting right at the start of the boat race, DJs will be playing from 12pm until midnight.

8 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 1JN – 020 8788 2552

For a sit-down meal:

The River Café

An authentic Italian restaurant with outdoor seating and a view of the Thames from just-about the halfway point. The perfect place to go if you'd like a sit-down meal and a more low-key experience of the boat race.

Thames Wharf, Rainville Road, W6 9HA – 020 7386 4200

Chiswick Pier Trust

The Pier House bar and decking will be open from 2pm offering the perfect view to watch the boat race with rowers passing about 11 minutes after the starting point.

Watch the rest of the races on the big screen, grab a bite to from the barbecue and quench your thirst with a Fuller's pint.

Chiswick Pier Trust, The Pier House, Corney Reach Way, W4 2UG - 020 8742 2713