Pubspy is never one to shirk a challenge.

So when the gauntlet was thrown down to find the best pubs to watch Saturday’s Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race I selflessly set off to do a recce.

So here’s a guide to where you can watch the action on the Thames or simply soak up the atmosphere and sup a pint or two.

Star and Garter, 4 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, 020 8788 0345, thestarandgarter.com

An imposing boozer, dating back to the 1800s, the Star and Garter sits near the University Stone, which marks the start of the race.

It has unrivalled views of the Thames – but it comes at a price. From the £5 entrance ticket to £4 for a pint of lager, which for Heineken is pretty steep, or £3.80 for Pride.

Big screens will also show the race and there will also be DJs and live music.

The Duke's Head, Lower Richmond Road, Putney, 020 8788 2552, dukesheadputney.com

Situated on the river bank, you should be able to glance the rival teams as they set off, if you can see through the crowds.

There’ll be outside bars so you won't be trapped indoors (unless you want to be) and live bands.

There’s a choice of ales on tap. A pint of Fosters will set you back £3.68 - not the most expensive but at the high end of the scale.

The Boathouse, Brewhouse Lane, Putney, 020 8789 0476, boathouseputney.co.uk

Tucked off Putney’s high street is the nautically-named The Boathouse.

The Young’s boozer has great views over the river, so if you crane your neck you might be able to see something.

The Rocket, Putney Wharf Tower, Brewhouse Lane, 020 8780 8970 jdwetherspoon.co.uk

Cavernous Wetherspoon’s pub at the bottom of a block of luxury flats.

The allure of the chain’s cheap drinks may pull in punters to this normally quiet watering hole. With beers at £3 and ales under £2 it’s one of the cheapest on the block.

Prince of Wales, 138 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, 020 8788 1552, princeofwalesputney.co.uk

If the boat race isn’t your thing then head to the Prince of Wales and sample real ales and beers from a range of breweries during its three-day Varsity Beer Festival.

Half Moon, 93 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, 020 8780 9383, halfmoon.co.uk

The Half Moon is getting into the party spirit with DJs throughout the day, a hog roast, Pimm’s tent, garden party and 90s popstars D:Ream on stage in the evening.