If it’s sunny on the day we will first try and get the
outside tables over looking the Thames, if they are not free
we’ll be in the back garden. If it’s raining
we’ll be sensible and will be found inside, hopefully with a
window table over looking the Thames.
A little bit of history;
Doggett's Coat and Badge is the prize and name for the oldest
rowing race in the world. Up to six apprentices Waterman of the
River Thames compete for this prestigious honour, which has been
held every year since 1715. The 4 miles 5 furlongs race is held on
the Thames between London Bridge and Cadogan Pier, Chelsea, passing
under a total of 11 bridges en route. Originally, it was raced
every 1st August against the outgoing (falling or ebb) tide, in the
boats used by watermen to ferry passengers across the Thames. Today
it is raced at a date and time in late July that coincides with the
incoming (rising or flood) tide, in contemporary single sculling
boats.
If any cacher arrives by rowing boat I’ll buy them a
drink!