Revealed: The best places to watch the 2019 Boat Race

The annual Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge will take place this Sunday in southwest London.

The race, which has been held annually since 1856 excluding the war years, is expected to draw a crowd of at least 250,000 people.

The women's race will start at 2:13pm and the men's race will start at 3:10pm, set to coincide with the rising tide so that the current is as fast as possible.

Last year Cambridge swept up at the Boat Race, winning the title for both of the main races and the two reserve races.

This race will certainly be one to watch, with underdog Oxford challenging reigning champs Cambridge for the top spot.

If you're looking to watch and are a loyal Oxford or Cambridge fan, make sure to heed the result of the coin toss two hours prior to the races so that you can choose the appropriate side to cheer on your team.

For the more casual reveller, prepare to head in early as the race attracts a lot of foot traffic.

The boats will race on a four mile-long course on the Thames, stretching from Putney to Mortlake. The start line is marked by the University Stone, which will be placed close to Putney Embankment. To catch the start of the race, head to Putney Bridge from the tube station of the same name.

A little further along the course is Barn Elms Boathouse, which features a concrete landing stage that provides a view of the race as the crews head to the mile mark.

Hammersmith Bridge could be ideal for those looking to catch all of the action, as a whopping 80 per cent of crews who are ahead at the bridge end up winning the race.

Since Hammersmith Bridge tends to get crowded, you might want to opt for St. Paul's School Boathouse which is nearby. Or, pop into the Blue Anchor or The Rutland for a pint along the river.

The race will end a little bit before Chiswick Bridge, so head to Emanuel School Boathouse or Dukes Meadow for the final stretch. Depending on how the day goes, you may want to celebrate your win or lament your loss at The Ship, a pub right at the end of the course.

If you'd rather avoid the crowds and enjoy a meal, try reserving a table at Rick Stein's restaurant, which offers a three course meal for spectators.

Regardless of whether you are cheering on light blue or dark blue, the race is bound to excite as the two universities give it their all.