Oxford Punting Adventures with Alumni Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required except some light balance and standing.
Overview
Drift through Oxford’s iconic river scene with Alumni Tours’ student-led punting trip. Learn about local history and literary legends while enjoying a peaceful ride along the River Cherwell.
Shared • Oxford University Punting Tour
30 Minutes • Ages 3+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a charming student-led punting tour along the picturesque River Cherwell. Glide past Oxford's stunning Botanic Gardens and historic sites like Christ Church Meadows, where Lewis Carroll crafted his beloved tales. This unique journey combines scenic beauty with rich literary history, making it a memorable adventure for all.
Punting Tour
Duration
0.5 hours
About
Enjoy a student-led punting tour along the River Cherwell. As you set off south from the boathouse you will be chauffeured gently past Oxford’s famous Botanic Gardens, past Magdalen College School fields, through Christ Church Meadows, where Lewis Carroll was teaching students in the mid 19-century, when he wrote the famous Alice Through the Looking Glass and Alice in Wonderland. Then pass St Hilda’s College gardens and back to the Boathouse.
Starting Times
11 AM then every hour on the hour until 5 PM
Adventure Tips
Wear non-slip shoes
Punts can be slippery; sturdy footwear helps maintain balance while boarding and aboard the boat.
Bring a waterproof jacket
Weather in Oxford can change quickly—light rain is common, so stay dry and comfortable on the water.
Keep personal items secure
Punts offer limited space; use waterproof bags to protect valuables from splashes.
Arrive early to secure your spot
Tours operate on a shared booking basis; arriving early ensures a better seating position and a more relaxed experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kingfishers darting along the riverbanks
- Mute swans gliding gracefully across the water
History
Christ Church Meadows inspired Lewis Carroll’s writings and have been a site of academic leisure since the 16th century.
Conservation
Alumni Tours emphasizes low-impact boating and respects conservation efforts along the River Cherwell to protect native plant and animal life.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Non-slip shoes
Provides stability on wet surfaces during boarding and pontoon movement.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry during sudden spring showers.
spring specific
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Protect your skin and eyes from sun exposure on open stretches of water.
summer specific
Waterproof bag
Safeguards your belongings from occasional splashes or damp conditions.