How to Plan Your Oxford Sightseeing River Tour

Are you planning a visit to Oxford and looking for an exciting outdoor activity? A sightseeing river tour is the perfect way to take in the stunning scenery of Oxfordshire’s countryside and city. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan and enjoy the Oxford Sightseeing River Tour.

Experience

This river tour offers a unique perspective of Oxford through comfortable and environmentally-friendly electric boats. The tour lasts 50 minutes and is led by knowledgeable skippers that will provide fascinating insights into the rich history, culture, and landmarks of Oxford.

Highlights

During the Oxford Sightseeing River Tour, you’ll:

1. Take in the beauty of the river in Oxford from the University Regatta Course
2. See ancient Folly Bridge Christ Church Meadows boat houses and Iffley Lock
3. Cruise aboard our elegant and eco-friendly electric Edwardian River boats
4. Hear the history of the river from your knowledgeable skipper
5. Arrive early to order drinks from The Folly Restaurant to enjoy on board

Booking

Booking the Oxford Sightseeing River Tour is easy. Just visit GetYourGuide, select your preferred date and time, and book your tickets online.

Preparation

Before you embark on your river tour, here are some helpful tips to help you prepare:

1. Dress Appropriately

The Oxford Sightseeing River Tour is an outdoor activity, so make sure to dress accordingly for the weather. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a light jacket or raincoat in case of sudden weather changes.

2. Bring Your Camera

Oxford is a picturesque city, and the river tour offers some spectacular views of the city and its surroundings. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some unforgettable memories.

3. Arrive Early

To ensure you have a stress-free experience, arrive at the boat dock at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Arriving early also gives you the opportunity to order drinks from The Folly Restaurant to enjoy on board.

Onboard Experience

Once you board the electric Edwardian riverboat, you’ll be greeted by the friendly and knowledgeable skipper. After a brief introduction and safety instructions, the boat will set off on the river, and you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Oxford. As you cruise down the river, the skipper will provide fascinating insights into the landmarks and history of Oxford. You’ll see ancient bridges, historic buildings, and beautiful parks and gardens. Don’t forget to order drinks from The Folly Restaurant to enjoy on board. You can also purchase snacks and use the restroom facilities on board.

Book Your Tour Now

The Oxford Sightseeing River Tour is a unique and enjoyable way to experience the beauty and history of Oxford. We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan and enjoy your tour. Don’t forget to book your tickets in advance and arrive early to ensure a stress-free and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oxford

1. What is Oxford and where is it located?

Oxford is a city located in the county of Oxfordshire in South East England. It is best known for its prestigious university, which is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the world. The city itself has a population of around 150,000 and is located about 60 miles west of London.

2. What is the history of Oxford?

Oxford has a long and storied history, dating back over a thousand years. The city was initially settled by the Saxons, and its name comes from the Saxon words “Oxenaforda” or “ford of the oxen”. Oxford grew in importance during the Middle Ages as a center of learning and scholarship, and its university was founded in the 12th century. During the Renaissance, Oxford became a hub of scientific discovery and intellectual inquiry, with figures such as Isaac Newton and Robert Boyle conducting research and studying there.

3. What is there to see and do in Oxford?

Oxford is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. One of the top attractions is the University of Oxford, which is made up of dozens of colleges that are scattered throughout the city. Visitors can take guided tours of the university, explore its museums and galleries, and even attend lectures and events. Other popular attractions include the Bodleian Library, the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, and the Oxford Botanic Garden.

4. How can I get around Oxford?

Oxford is a relatively small city, and many of its top attractions are within easy walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore the city more thoroughly or travel further afield, there are plenty of transportation options available. The city has a comprehensive bus network, with regular services to all parts of the city and the surrounding area. There is also a train station in the city center, with regular services to London and other destinations.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Oxford?

Oxford is a beautiful city year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re interested in outdoor activities and seeing the city’s beautiful gardens and parks, then the spring and summer months (from April to September) are the best time to visit. If you’re interested in seeing the university at work and attending lectures and events, then the fall and winter months (from October to March) are a good choice.

6. What are some of the best restaurants and bars in Oxford?

Oxford has a thriving restaurant and bar scene, with plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. Some of the top spots include The Oxford Kitchen, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern British cuisine; The Perch, a historic pub with a beautiful outdoor terrace; and The Botanist, a stylish cocktail bar with a garden.

7. Can I take a day trip from Oxford?

Yes, there are plenty of great day trip options from Oxford. The Cotswolds, a beautiful region of rolling hills and picturesque villages, is just a short drive away. The historic city of Bath, known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture, is also within easy reach. And if you’re looking for a dose of city life, London is just an hour away by train.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Oxford

Oxford is a city in central southern England known for its prestigious universities and beautiful architecture. Oxford is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re visiting Oxford for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, there are plenty of things to see and do. In this blog post, we’ll be giving you a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Oxford.

1. Visit the Oxford University Colleges

One of the main attractions in Oxford is its prestigious university. Oxford University is composed of over 30 colleges, many of which are open to visitors. Each college has its own unique history and architecture, making them a must-see for any tourist visiting Oxford. Some of the most famous colleges include Christ Church College, Magdalen College, and New College.

Christ Church College

Christ Church College is one of the most famous and largest colleges in Oxford. It has served as the location for several films, including Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Visitors can explore the spectacular Great Hall, which is adorned with portraits of famous alumni, as well as the beautiful and historic cathedral.

Magdalen College

Magdalen College is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and magnificent chapel. Visitors can also stroll through the college’s deer park and see the famous Addison’s Walk, a picturesque path that circles the college’s surrounding meadows.

New College

New College is one of the oldest colleges in Oxford, founded in 1379. It has a beautiful cloister and chapel, both of which are well worth visiting. The college is also home to several gardens, including the famous Fellows’ Garden.

2. Visit the Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum is the oldest public museum in the world, founded in 1683. It houses collections of art, archaeology, and other historical artifacts from around the world. Visitors can find pieces from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, as well as contemporary exhibitions.

3. Visit Oxford Castle and Prison

Oxford Castle and Prison has a rich history spanning over a thousand years. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn about its turbulent past, which includes being used as a prison for several centuries. The castle’s tower offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

4. Take a Walk Around the City Centre

Oxford’s city centre is full of history and culture. Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the centre and see the famous landmarks, such as the Radcliffe Camera, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Sheldonian Theatre. For those interested in shopping, there are several markets and high-street shops.

5. Visit the Botanic Garden

The Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the UK, founded in 1621. It houses a collection of plants from around the world, as well as several greenhouses and specialist collections. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll through the gardens and learn about the different plants and their uses.

6. Take a Walking Tour

Walking tours are a great way to explore Oxford and learn about its history and culture. There are several tour operators in the city, offering different types of tours. Some popular tours include Harry Potter tours, ghost tours, and historical tours.

7. Visit Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a beautiful baroque palace located just outside of Oxford. It was built in the early 18th century and is considered a masterpiece of English architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and see the beautiful gardens and picturesque lake. In conclusion, Oxford is a city full of history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the university colleges or taking a stroll through the city centre, there’s something for everyone in Oxford. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to Oxford.