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From209US$ /night
Check-in
20Apr2026Select date
Check-out
21Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, United Kingdom
-
Steps from Christ Church
Great
8.8
8.9
/10
4.2
3.9
/5

Location

Head Of The River sits along the banks of the River Thames, just a short walk from central Oxford. The hotel offers direct access to breathtaking riverside paths perfect for leisurely strolls. Guests can explore nearby attractions such as the historic Magdalen College and the iconic Oxford Botanic Garden.

Dining

The hotel's restaurant provides a range of delicious dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy riverside dining with seasonal menus that showcase the best of British cuisine. The bar at Head Of The River offers a selection of wines, beers, and classic cocktails, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploration.

Accommodations

Head Of The River features 21 uniquely styled guest rooms, each equipped with modern comforts. Guests can choose from a variety of room types that provide views of the river or the historic city center. Every room includes en-suite bathrooms and essential amenities for a comfortable stay.

Events and Functions

The hotel offers a private function room that accommodates up to 40 guests, suitable for meetings and intimate celebrations. This versatile space includes audio-visual equipment and natural light for a productive atmosphere. Catering options are available to suit various dietary preferences.

Nearby Attractions

Head Of The River is conveniently located near numerous historical sites, galleries, and museums. Guests can easily visit the Ashmolean Museum and the University of Oxford for a cultural experience. The lively Covered Market is also a short distance away, offering unique shops and local produce.

Highlights

Location: along the banks of the River Thames

Dining: seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients

Accommodations: 21 uniquely styled guest rooms

Events: private function room for 40 guests

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll along the River Thames and enjoy a riverside picnic.
  • Visit the Ashmolean Museum for world-class art and artifacts.
  • Savor a traditional Oxford cream tea at The Grand Café.
  • Explore the Covered Market for unique local goods and treats.
  • Take a guided punting tour on the Cherwell for scenic views.
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Select your room type

Head Of The River offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Superior Double Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Family Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Small Double Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Double Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Head Of The River offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

Head Of The River offers a delightful British dining experience set against the picturesque backdrop of a bustling boatyard. With cheerful outdoor seating, a spacious interior, and an emphasis on seasonal, local produce, guests can indulge in wholesome, authentic meals throughout the day.
Head Of The River Oxford Restaurant photo
Head Of The River Oxford Restaurant photo
Head Of The River Oxford Restaurant photo

Head of the River

British
Ambiance
Traditional pub atmosphere with a spacious open area surrounding two busy bars and al fresco seating by the boatyard, featuring cheerful blue tables and chairs.
Key Offerings
A diverse menu catering to vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, complemented by a rotating selection of craft beers from around the world. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by a talented chef team using locally sourced ingredients.
Reservation
Not needed
Monday to Friday 07:00 - 11:00 (breakfast), 12:00 - 21:00 (lunch/dinner); Friday 12:00 - 22:00; Saturday 08:00 - 11:00 (breakfast), 12:00 - 22:00 (lunch/dinner); Sunday 08:00 - 11:00 (breakfast), 12:00 - 20:00 (lunch/dinner).

Head Of The River Location

Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, United Kingdom
Map view
Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, United Kingdom
Nearby
Church
Christ Church
1400 ft
Broad Street
Sheldonian Theatre
2000 ft
Museum
Museum of Oxford
1900 ft
Museum
The Story Museum
1900 ft
Town Hall St. Aldates
Oxford Town Hall
1900 ft
Museum
Bate Collection of Musical Instruments
2000 ft
Restaurants
The White House
1200 ft
38 Abingdon Road
The Alchemist Oxford
2600 ft
Unit RU7 The Westgate Shopping Centre Bonn Square
Victors Oxford
2300 ft
307 The Westgate Queen Street Unit RU5
Pho Restaurant
2500 ft
305 The Westgate Queen Street The Westgate
Cinnamon Kitchen Oxford
2400 ft
309
Shoryu Ramen
2300 ft
134 The Westgate Queen Street The Westgate
Mowgli Street Food
2000 ft
1 Norfolk Street Unit 302 Westgate
Pizza Pilgrims
2000 ft
1 Norfolk Street Westgate Centre Roof Terrace RU12
Explore Oxford
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Christ Church
Christ Church
5 minutes' walk
Christ Church showcases stunning architecture and lush gardens. Famous for its connections to Harry Potter.
The Covered Market Oxford
The Covered Market Oxford
9 minutes' walk
A historic market featuring local produce, artisanal foods, and charming shops, perfect for a unique shopping experience.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
13 minutes' walk
The Ashmolean, the oldest public museum, features world-class art and unique exhibits. Free admission is available.
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
University Church of St Mary the Virgin
12 minutes' walk
A stunning church offering panoramic views from its tower and rich history, it's a must-see landmark in Oxford.
Biking along the Thames Path
10 minutes' ride
Biking along the Thames Path provides scenic views and a leisurely ride. Bikes can be rented nearby.
Relaxing at Christ Church Meadow
5 minutes' walk
Christ Church Meadow offers serene walking paths and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a quiet afternoon.
The White House
The White House
5 minutes' walk
A cozy spot known for classic British dishes, with a warm atmosphere. Reservation is recommended for dinner.
Cinnamon Kitchen Oxford
Cinnamon Kitchen Oxford
9 minutes' walk
Cinnamon Kitchen offers Indian cuisine in a modern setting, with flavorful dishes and vegetarian options available.
The Sheldonian Theatre
8 minutes' walk
A historic venue hosting concerts and events, famous for its unique architecture and impressive acoustics.
The Story Museum
The Story Museum
7 minutes' walk
An interactive space celebrating storytelling, featuring exhibitions suitable for families and all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Oxford8 min  ·  2000 ft
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO)111 min  ·  45.7 mi
London Heathrow (LHR)118 min  ·  48.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Head Of The River serves a full breakfast for free. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
19

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Head Of The River from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 562 verified reviews
8.6/10
Great
91%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
8.3/10
Guest reviews
based on 562 reviews
8.6/10
based on 1464 reviews
8.8/10
Mia from Sweden
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 27, 2026
9.5/10

Good Riverside Stay!

modern decorcomfortable bedfriendly staff
The location next to the river was superb! The room had modern decor and it looked very clean. The bed was amazingly comfortable and provided great rest. The staff was friendly and happy to hold my bag after I checked out. This let me explore a little more before leaving.
The room faced a busy street, so it had some noise. Despite that, I enjoyed my stay.
Dining
9/10
The breakfast included a good selection. It had top-quality teas and coffees. Naomi from the restaurant gave excellent service. She was so nice! The menu looked pretty appealing though the outdoor terrace was always bustling with people.
Rooms
9/10
The rooms feature lovely toiletries and they appear well appointed. The views can be quite nice! The rooms felt private and quiet so I appreciated that. The bathroom was great!
Service
10/10
The staff was always pleasant and ready to help. They were all very kind. Emms and the terrace manager were especially friendly. They accommodated my needs. I appreciated that.
Location
10/10
The hotel is a short walk to the city centre. That makes sightseeing very easy. Christ Church is quite close by. The location near the river offers scenic walks. It really did add a lot to my stay.
0 Helpful
|
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Larry from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 12, 2026
9.3/10

riverside retreat

peaceful backdropsatisfying breakfastoutdoor seating
i found the location excellent for exploring. the river views provided a peaceful backdrop. breakfast included a full english option, a satisfying start to the day. outdoor seating by the river was quite pleasant for evening drinks.
Dining
9/10
the restaurant offered a great selection , and the food was delicious. paying guests receive 15% off their bill, a great perk. breakfast choices were really good , with good quality ingredients.
Rooms
9/10
the room was very clean and had everything i needed. bathroom supplies smelled lovely , and there was air conditioning. there was a great selection of tea and coffee. a mini fridge.
Service
10/10
the staff were helpful from the beginning and accommodating throughout my stay. they were friendly and cute upon arrival and always available. i felt valued and appreciated by everyone i encountered.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel is situated right on the river , which would be fantastic in the summer. it is literally a 10 minute walk to the centre , so everything is walkable. outdoor seating provides a pleasant experience.
0 Helpful
|
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Hannah from United Kingdom
Couple
double room
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 15, 2025
9/10

riverfront bliss

air conditioningbathroom suppliesfull breakfast
the room had air conditioning and lovely bathroom supplies. i found a great selection of tea and coffee was available. the full english breakfast included poached eggs that were very tasty.
0 Helpful
Simon from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
2 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 08, 2025
6/10
slow serviceovercooked burger
The pub was quite busy . Finding a quiet corner proved difficult. The staff seemed stretched thin, service became slow and impersonal. My burger was overcooked. It was tough and dry. I did expect better from a place charging premium prices.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Head Of The River
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Head Of The River?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Head Of The River from the city centre of Oxford?
The hotel is located 1 km from the city centre of Oxford.
What nearby attractions can be visited from Head Of The River?
Nearby attractions include the Bodleian Library (1 km), Oxford University Museum of Natural History (1 km), and Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology (0.5 km).
What dining options are available at Head Of The River?
The hotel features a pub restaurant serving a hearty cooked breakfast and an evening menu with local produce.
What are the amenities in the rooms of Head Of The River?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea making facilities, and a private modern bathroom with free toiletries.
How far is Head Of The River from Gloucestershire Airport?
The hotel is 75 km from Gloucestershire Airport.
What is the distance between Head Of The River and Christ Church?
The hotel is approximately a 10-minute walk from Christ Church.
What activities are available nearby Head Of The River?
Salter's Steamers boat hire offering cruises and punting is very close to the hotel.
What kind of breakfast is served at Head Of The River?
Guests can enjoy a hearty cooked breakfast featuring local produce and seasonal ingredients.
Does Head Of The River provide free Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
Are children catered for at Head Of The River?
The hotel offers a children's menu.
What unique features does Head Of The River offer?
The hotel has a riverside terrace, individually decorated bedrooms, and a vibrant pub atmosphere.

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room