Head Of The River Oxford Room photoHead Of The River Oxford Exterior photoHead Of The River Oxford Exterior photo
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From209US$ /night
Check-in
18Apr2026Select date
Check-out
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, United Kingdom
-
Close to the city center
Great
8.8
8.9
/10
4.2
3.9
/5

Location

Head Of The River is located on the banks of the River Thames, providing scenic views of the waterway. Just a short walk from the historic city center, it offers easy access to famous attractions like Christ Church College and Oxford Castle. The hotel is well-positioned for exploring the vibrant culture and education of Oxford.

Dining

The hotel offers an on-site restaurant serving a variety of dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals with views of the River Thames on the terrace or inside the stylish dining room. A selection of fine wines and craft beers complements the menu, enhancing the dining experience.

Rooms

Accommodation at Head Of The River includes well-appointed rooms designed for comfort and convenience. Each room features an en-suite bathroom and complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities. Some rooms offer picturesque views of the river, enhancing the overall experience of staying at the hotel.

Outdoor Experience

The riverside terrace provides a relaxed setting for enjoying drinks or meals outdoors. Guests can watch boats pass by while soaking up the atmosphere on sunny days. The terrace is a popular spot for social gatherings and events, making it a vibrant part of the hotel experience.

Events and Functions

Head Of The River offers facilities for private events, including weddings and corporate meetings. The hotel provides a unique backdrop for celebrations with its picturesque riverside location. Event coordinators are available to assist with planning to ensure a smooth experience.

Highlights

Location: On the banks of the River Thames

Dining: On-site restaurant with locally sourced ingredients

Rooms: Well-appointed rooms with en-suite bathrooms

Outdoor Experience: Riverside terrace for dining and events

“The riverside location and uniquely decorated rooms stand out, offering a picturesque Oxford experience. Dining shines with locally sourced ingredients, complemented by a lively pub atmosphere. While some rooms may present minor drawbacks, the overall charm and prime location make it a worthwhile choice.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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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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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 invites guests to indulge in a delightful array of British cuisine, showcasing seasonal produce and heartfelt flavors. This vibrant pub is perfect for leisurely breakfasts, hearty lunches, and cozy dinners, all set against the backdrop of a charming boatyard.
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
A spacious open area surrounding two bustling bars, complemented by cheerful blue tables and chairs in a lively boatyard.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a menu that caters to vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free preferences, crafted with fresh ingredients from local suppliers. The rotating selection of craft beers adds an exciting touch to the dining experience.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast: Monday to Friday 07:00 - 11:00, Saturday and Sunday 08:00 - 11:00; Lunch and Dinner: Daily from 12:00, with hours extending to 22:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.

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 Near Head Of The River
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Christ Church
Christ Church
5 minutes' walk
Famous college with stunning architecture and scenic gardens. Notable for its connections to 'Harry Potter' films.
The Covered Market Oxford
The Covered Market Oxford
9 minutes' walk
Historic market hosting local vendors and shops. Ideal for experiencing local produce and artisans.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
13 minutes' walk
Britain's first public museum with an impressive collection of art. Free admission and insightful guided tours available.
Oxford Castle
Oxford Castle
12 minutes' walk
Medieval castle with a rich history. Offers guided tours that explore its intriguing past and architecture.
Punting on the River Cherwell
15 minutes' walk
Enjoy punting along the river for a tranquil experience. Rentals available nearby, perfect for families and couples.
Cycling at Christ Church Meadow
5 minutes' walk
A scenic spot for cycling or leisurely walks. Bike rentals are easy to find, providing a great outdoor experience.
The White House
The White House
5 minutes' walk
Charming eatery known for local dishes and a relaxed vibe. Popular for its brunch and farm-to-table ingredients.
Victors Oxford
Victors Oxford
9 minutes' walk
Trendy venue offering a global menu. Renowned for its lively atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Cinnamon Kitchen Oxford
Cinnamon Kitchen Oxford
9 minutes' walk
Modern Indian restaurant famous for its innovative dishes. Vegetarian options are available, with a vibrant setting.
Sheldonian Theatre
Sheldonian Theatre
8 minutes' walk
Historic venue offering live concerts and theatrical performances. Unique architecture enhances the experience.
Oxford Playhouse
15 minutes' walk
Renowned theater presenting various performances, including drama and comedy. Family-friendly shows are available.
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 summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Head of the River enjoys a superb location right on the Thames, within easy walking distance of Oxford's key sites. Guests consistently praise the excellent breakfast, including the Full English option. Rooms are generally considered lovely and clean, some featuring river views and spacious bathrooms; however, a few guests have noted the absence of a lift. The hotel also boasts pleasant outdoor seating next to the river, ideal for dinner or drinks.
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Review score
Based on 562 verified reviews
8.6/10
Great
91%
Recommend
Location
9.4/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.3/10
Value for money
8.3/10
Pros
Great location
Helpful staff
Tasty evening meal
Cons
Minimal breakfast
Guest reviews
based on 562 reviews
8.6/10
based on 1464 reviews
8.8/10
Tom from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:August 24, 2025
7/10
attentive staffclean roomconvenient locationslow breakfast servicesmall roomdim lighting
i found the staff attentive and helpful they addressed my needs quickly the room was clean and well maintained i especially appreciated the river view it was a charming addition to my stay the hotel's location near attractions proved very convenient.
i noticed the breakfast service was slow one morning it took a while to get my order the room felt somewhat small compared to what i expected the lighting in the bathroom seemed a bit dim i wish there was better illumination.
0 Helpful

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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room