Oxford Picnic Cruise with Oxford River Cruises
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated and relaxed.
Overview
Glide along Oxford’s River Thames on a leisurely 3-hour picnic cruise with Oxford River Cruises. Savor local flavors and scenic views while passing historic landmarks and peaceful meadows.
Oxford Picnic Cruise
3 Hours • Combine sightseeing with a relaxed picnic on the river
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About This Adventure
Experience the charm of Oxford on our Picnic Cruise, blending scenic sightseeing with a delightful riverside picnic. Glide past iconic landmarks and hidden gems like Port Meadow, steeped in literary history. Enjoy a leisurely 3-hour journey filled with stunning views and a taste of local flavors, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Our Oxford Picnic Cruise combines Oxford sightseeing with a leisurely picnic and relaxed experience of river life
Duration
3 Hours
About
We travel through the city past famous landmarks including Christchurch College and Meadows, the University boathouses and regatta course, the Head of the River and Folly Bridge. From the river, we take in a side of Oxford's heritage rarely seen by visitors to the city. Quaint Osney Island, well-loved allotments and gardens, and majestic and ancient Port Meadow are off the tourist trail but represent some of Oxford's most beautiful and intriguing scenery. Port Meadow, a vast area of common land, has remained little changed since prehistoric times and supports plants and bird-life in abundance. At the top of Port Meadow is Godstow. Godstow was the ultimate destination of Alice Liddell and Lewis Carroll when they followed an identical route to our trip while composing 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'. It is also the site of Trout Island, an inspiration for another of Oxford's literary icons, C S Lewis, and his stories of the land of Narnia.
Your picnic lunch is provided by riverside restaurant, The Folly, and typically includes*;
- An Selection of Finger Sandwiches
- Homemade Quiche or Tart of The Day
- Homemade Scones with Strawberry Jam, Clotted Cream
- Elderflower Presse
- Served in a traditional picnic basket with napkins, crockery, and glasses (to be returned to the crew at the end of the cruise)
Drinks to take aboard can be purchased at the departure point.
*exact contents may differ and depend on availability. For information regarding special dietary requirements and allergies please see our Diets and Allergies page.
More info
Private versions of this cruise are also available (a surcharge applies for groups of less than 10 people). This trip operates between April and October.
At a Glance
- 3 hour Sightseeing Tour
- Pass-Through Osney Lock
- Stunning Scenery at Port Meadow
- Shortstop at Historic Perch Inn**
- Christ Church Meadow and College glimpses
- University Boat Houses and Rowing
- Picnic Aboard
- Private Options Available on Request
- Public Cruise Daily April to October
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Dress for the Weather
Wear layers and bring a light waterproof jacket, as the weather on the river can be changeable.
Accessibility
The cruise is suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair accessible, but notify the operator in advance for assistance.
Bring Binoculars
For spotting birds and distant landmarks along Port Meadow and the riverbanks, binoculars can enhance your experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding serenely
- Kingfishers flashing along the river edges
History
Port Meadow has been common grazing land for over a thousand years, featured in writings by William Wordsworth and other poets.
Conservation
Oxford River Cruises supports sustainable boating practices to protect the delicate river ecosystem and minimize disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable during variable river temperatures and weather.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against typical spring showers on the Thames.
spring specific
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Necessary protection on sunny river afternoons.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhances views of wildlife and distant landmarks along the shore.