Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise

Oxford, GB
96% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (240 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Picnic lunch
  • inclusion
    All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • inclusion
    3-hour river cruise
  • inclusion
    Professional skipper

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities

What to expect

1

River Thames

Cruising this ancient and historic waterway passengers enjoy the beauty, peace and tranquility of river life.

2

Christ Church Meadow

The cruise takes in the views of Christ Church Meadow, a beautiful area of open countryside in the heart of Oxford. Beside the meadow are glimpses of Christ Church College, Merton College and Magdalen College

3

Folly Bridge

The cruise passes under Folly Bridge, the ancient river crossing from which the city of Oxford grew.

4

Port Meadow

From the river view Port Meadow, a vast area of common land that has remained little changed since prehistoric times and supports plants and bird-life in abundance.

5

Osney Lock Hydro

Passing through Osney Lock passengers experience the fancinating system of locks and weirs which have managed the flow of the River Thames for hundreds of years.

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6

Oxford River Cruises

Oxford River Cruises offers sightseeing tours, picnic and dining cruises in the heart of Oxford

7

The Folly Restaurant

Cruises embark and disembark at Oxford's renowned Folly Restaurant perched beside the river at Folly Bridge. Guests can order drinks from the restaurant to take aboard the boat and enjoy a meal on their return from the cruise (sold separately).

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Infant meals not included
  • Additional information
    Minimum drinking age is 18 years
  • Additional information
    Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Provided by Oxford River Cruises

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try the local pies at Folly Restaurant
  • icon
    Bring a light jacket for cooler breezes
  • icon
    Visit Christchurch College after the cruise
  • icon
    Book early, this cruise sells out fast
  • icon
    Ask about dietary options for your picnic

More About this Experience

Introduction

The Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise offers a unique experience that combines the beauty of Oxford's renowned landmarks with a leisurely picnic and a relaxed river journey. This small group cruise will take you on a scenic tour of the city, passing by famous sights such as Christ Church College and Meadows, the University boathouses and regatta course, the Head of the River, and Folly Bridge. Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, this river cruise allows you to witness a side of Oxford's rich heritage that is often unseen by visitors. As you glide along the ancient waterway, you will be immersed in the beauty, peace, and tranquility of river life.

What to expect?

During this 180-minute cruise, you can expect to fully indulge in the delightful experience of river living. You will embark on a journey that showcases the picturesque Christ Church Meadow, offering glimpses of Christ Church College, Merton College, and Magdalen College. The cruise will also pass under the historic Folly Bridge, which holds the city's fascinating origins. As you continue along the river, you will be able to admire Port Meadow, an expansive area of untouched countryside that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. The cruise will navigate through Osney Lock, giving you the opportunity to witness the intricate system of locks and weirs that have controlled the flow of the River Thames for hundreds of years. Throughout the journey, you will have the chance to appreciate the sights from the comfort of the boat, capturing stunning photos and creating unforgettable memories.

Who is this for?

The Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise is designed for anyone seeking a delightful and relaxing way to explore the beauty of Oxford. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the city, this experience is perfect for those who appreciate the charm of river life and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets. The tour is suitable for individuals, couples, families, and groups of friends who are looking for a peaceful and scenic adventure. With its inclusive nature, this cruise aims to cater to a wide range of people, ensuring that everyone can appreciate the tranquility and heritage of the river.

Why book this?

Embarking on the Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise offers a truly unique and memorable experience. Unlike other sightseeing tours, this cruise allows you to witness Oxford's iconic landmarks from a different perspective, providing a fresh and captivating view of the city. As you glide along the scenic river, you will be able to relax and enjoy a leisurely picnic, surrounded by the tranquility of the water. Indulge in the mesmerizing beauty of Christ Church Meadow, Port Meadow, and other captivating sights while immersing yourself in the rich historical heritage of Oxford. This experience is not just a simple tour but an opportunity to embrace the essence of river life and create lasting memories.

Good to know

Before embarking on the Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise, keep in mind that the total duration of the tour is 180 minutes. The meeting point is at Oxford's renowned Folly Restaurant, conveniently located by Folly Bridge. While the cruise itself does not include meals, guests have the option to order drinks from the restaurant and enjoy a meal upon returning from the cruise (sold separately). Additionally, the boat provides a comfortable and scenic atmosphere for relaxation and sightseeing. It is recommended to bring a camera to capture the stunning views and cherish the beauty of Oxford's riverside.

Reviews

Passengers who have experienced the Oxford Sightseeing Picnic River Cruise have highly praised its serene and picturesque nature. They appreciate the unique opportunity to discover Oxford's hidden heritage from the river, offering a refreshing perspective on the city's iconic landmarks. Travelers have especially enjoyed the peacefulness and tranquility of the cruise, making it an ideal escape from the bustling streets of Oxford. The vast and untouched beauty of Port Meadow, along with the fascinating locks and weirs, have left visitors in awe of the river's natural charm. Guests have also commended the convenience and comfort of the boat, allowing them to relax and fully embrace the scenic journey. Overall, reviews have expressed high satisfaction with the experience, painting a picture of a truly captivating and enchanting way to explore Oxford.

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