Top Oxford On the Water

Set sail for a romantic cruise through the heart of Oxford—and pair your sightseeing with a classic afternoon tea—on this unique, two-in-one boat tour. Tuck into English teatime treats such as finger sandwiches and scones with jam and clotted cream as you glide downstream. Following a scenic route along the University Regatta Course, discover Oxford’s greenery and admire views of the University Boat Houses, Christ Church Meadows, and Iffley lock.

Enjoy a different way to explore the sights of scholarly Oxford—and pair your sightseeing with a cocktail of your choice—on this evening cruise. Board your boat before the sun sets, and head out onto the calm waters with just your guide and a small group for company. Sip a cocktail or a soft drink as you soak up the views, and spot attractions including Christ Church Meadow.

Take a leisurely 40-minute boat trip from Oxford to Iffley Lock, where nature thrives in scenic surroundings. This daily journey, available hourly from 11:00 to 17:00, offers a chance to soak in stunning landscapes and observe abundant wildlife. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind on the water, this trip highlights the beauty of the Oxford canals in a relaxed setting. - 40-minute return boat trip from Oxford to Iffley Lock - Daily departures every hour from 11:00 to 17:00 - Experience scenic landscapes and spot local wildlife - Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike

Admire Oxford from the water on this cruise, and see a side to the city that many travelers miss. Float along the tranquil Thames River as your skipper points out places of interest such as Christchurch College, the Meadows, Port Meadow, and Folly Bridge—which you can enjoy without having to jostle the land-based crowds. A picnic lunch midway keeps you fueled throughout.

Enjoy a relaxed, hassle-free evening in Oxford with this river cruise and dinner combination that takes care of both sightseeing and dining in one seamless experience. Cruise along the River Thames while sipping chilled prosecco and taking in peaceful views of Christchurch Meadows and the university boathouses. Afterward, head to a highly regarded city-center restaurant for a delicious three-course meal—perfect for making the most of your time without juggling separate bookings.

Discover the beauty of the River Thames in Oxford on a relaxing cruise aboard. Depart from Folly Bridge and sail downstream through the historic Iffley Lock, taking in the peaceful scenery along the way. Enjoy views of lush greenery and local wildlife before turning back upstream for the return to Oxford. Throughout your journey, savour a chilled glass of Prosecco for a touch of indulgence, or opt for a refreshing fruit juice if you prefer. This is a wonderful way to experience the river’s charm in style and comfort.

Exploring Oxford’s historic streets and colleges can be confusing on foot, especially if you’re short on time. This hop-on hop-off bus tour makes it easy to get around the city while seeing its top sights, with a choice of 24- or 48-hour passes that let you create your own itinerary. Ride past highlights such as University of Oxford colleges (including filming locations from the “Harry Potter™” movies), Oxford Castle, and the Bodleian Library, one of the world’s oldest public libraries.

Solve cryptic clues, uncover stories, and enjoy the excitement of following a treasure map with this private self-guided adventure around Oxford. No need to pick up any equipment—simply access the game via a link on your smartphone and you’re ready to begin. The treasure hunt is all outdoors, which is the perfect way to avoid crowds, and it’s a great way to learn lesser-known facts about Oxford too.