London Rowing Club in Putney celebrates a centenary Head win and a new balcony

Putney Embankment is the heart of London rowing, and one of its oldest clubs has had a spring to remember. London Rowing Club, founded in 1856, enjoyed a string of strong results on the Thames in 2026, all watched from a brand new balcony.

The highlight came at the Head of the River Race on 28 March, the 100th edition of the famous processional race for eights. The club's first eight finished third overall, winning the club pennant and the Vernon Trophy, and the Masters D crew won their pennant too.

There was success right across the club. At the Hammersmith Head on 28 February, the men's squad first eight won the overall headship, eight seconds ahead of University of London. On 22 March the club won the Boustead Cup against neighbours Thames, and at the Masters Head of the River, its Op MasA eight won their event and the overall headship. At the Women's Eights Head of the River, the first eight placed second in the Senior Club category.

All of this was watched from the club's new balcony, which was completed in early 2026 after about two months of construction. The Putney Society supported the plans, noting that while several boathouses had been allowed new or replacement balconies in recent years, there were "none as stylish". The first phase was finished on time and within budget, and the club has been fundraising to cover the final costs.

The balcony was used in earnest for the first time as crowds gathered for the Head races, and on Boat Race day the club welcomed Chanel and The Boat Race Company. Former captain Ciaran Hayes umpired the men's race. Chairman Simon Melvin said of the Boat Race crews: "they certainly lived up to their billing!"

London Rowing Club and its neighbour Thames Rowing Club, founded in 1860, have produced Olympians and world champions over the years, including Sophie Hosking, gold medallist in the lightweight double sculls at London 2012.

The club also welcomes new members, from experienced rowers to those keen to learn.

London Rowing Club is on Putney Embankment, SW15. For membership enquiries, email membership@londonrc.org.uk or visit londonrc.org.uk.