"The location is exceeded only by the excellent customer service provided by the staff."
Ian from United Kingdom
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"The roasts were outstanding. I went for the pork and my girlfriend had the chicken - both were cooked to perfection with crispy crackling/skin, juicy meat, and all the classic trimmings."
Ryan Smith from United Kingdom
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"We had a lovely Sunday roast, sitting at a table by the river."
VayaConDiosAmigo from United Kingdom
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"This place is a gem. Supremely comfortable beds, brilliant breakfast, central for exploring Oxford and the staff can not do enough to help you."
Kathryn L from United Kingdom
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"The view to the Thames is really nice."
Fengting from Taiwan
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Riverside inn on the River Thames with boutique rooms and a pub restaurant
Location
The Head of the River sits on the banks of the River Thames, a 10-minute walk from Oxford University Colleges, Christ Church, and the Bodleian Library. Guests can watch punts and rowers pass from the riverside terrace, and the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology is within a 15-minute walk. The hotel is also close to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and Folly Bridge, with boat hire for cruises and punting available nearby.
Dining
The pub restaurant serves a hearty cooked breakfast using local produce and seasonal ingredients each morning. The evening menu includes locally sourced dishes, and the bar offers a rotating selection of real ales, craft beers, and cocktails. The riverside terrace provides outdoor seating for al fresco dining, and guests can also order from a menu featuring kids' meals and wine or champagne.
Rooms
Bedrooms are individually decorated, with some offering river views and all featuring a TV and a private modern bathroom with free toiletries. Certain rooms include bathrobes and slippers. All rooms have luxury bedding and a flat-screen TV, with tea and coffee making facilities included.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
The hotel accepts pets upon request and provides pet bowls and treats. A water bowl and dog biscuits are offered in the room, and the outdoor terrace is dog-friendly. The property also has an invoice provided for pet fees and key card access for security.
Activities
Guests can access boat hire for river cruises and punting from nearby Folly Bridge. The hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Oxford's quaint shops, lively theatres, and historic attractions such as the Ashmolean Museum. The riverside terrace and garden offer outdoor furniture for relaxation, and the bar has a rotating selection of craft beers for after-dinner drinks.
Highlights
Location: River Thames banks, 10 min walk to Oxford colleges
Dining: Hearty cooked breakfast with local produce, real ales selection
Rooms: Individually decorated rooms with river views available
Pet-Friendly: Dog bowls, treats, and biscuits provided
Activities: Boat hire for cruises and punting nearby
Must-do experiences
Stroll along the River Thames and spot the Radcliffe Camera.
Visit the Ashmolean Museum for world-class art collections.
Try the Oxford sausage at a local butcher for authentic flavor.
Explore the Covered Market for unique shops and delicious treats.
Take a punting tour on the Cherwell for a relaxing afternoon.
Select your room type
Head Of The River features a range of room types across England, from double and family rooms to suites, with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers included
Superior Double Room
2 persons
16 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Family Room
2 persons
16 m²
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Small Double Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your stay in England now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Head Of The River provides amenities to make your stay in England comfortable and memorable
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Guest Parking
No parking available.
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
Show more
Head Of The River: Location in England
Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford,
Explore Oxford
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Christ Church
5 minutes' walk
A stunning college known for its history, architecture, and as a filming location for Harry Potter.
The Covered Market Oxford
9 minutes' walk
A bustling market featuring local produce, unique shops, and delightful cafes with a vibrant atmosphere.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
13 minutes' walk
The oldest public museum in the UK, housing a vast collection of art and antiquities, with free admission.
Oxford Botanic Garden
15 minutes' walk
A beautiful botanical garden showcasing diverse plant species, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Cycling along the Thames Path
10 minutes' ride
Enjoy scenic views on a bike ride along the Thames Path. Rental bikes available nearby.
Yoga at the Oxford Botanic Garden
15 minutes' walk
Weekly outdoor yoga sessions in a tranquil setting. Suitable for all levels; pre-booking is recommended.
The White House
5 minutes' walk
A cozy eatery offering classic British fare with a friendly atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
Victors Oxford
9 minutes' walk
Trendy dining spot known for vibrant dishes and cocktails, featuring a stylish interior. Dietary options available.
Sheldonian Theatre
8 minutes' walk
Historic venue hosting concerts and events, showcasing stunning architecture. Check the schedule for performances.
The Bullingdon
20 minutes' walk
A lively pub and music venue hosting live bands and events. Great for a night out with friends.
Getting around England
City Centre
Oxford 8 min · 600 m
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO) 111 min · 73.5 km
London Heathrow (LHR) 118 min · 78.2 km
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 200 m
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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 the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP 11.95 per person.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
19
Guest Reviews and Ratings
What previous guests said about staying at Head Of The River.
Review score
Based on 785 verified reviews
8.4 /10
Great
86 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.1/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free WiFi
8.2/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Pros
Riverside location
Breakfast quality
Comfortable rooms
Cons
Slow food service
High food prices
Parking difficulties
Guest reviews
based on 1280 reviews
8.7/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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