Head Of The River Oxford Room photoHead Of The River Oxford Exterior photoHead Of The River Oxford Exterior photo

Head Of The River - 4-Star Hotel in Oxford

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From$209 /night
Check-in
30May
Check-out
31May
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, true
-
Close to the Covered Market
Great
8.8
8.9
/10
4.3
3.9
/5

Location & Setting

The Head of the River sits on the banks of the scenic River Thames, a 10-minute walk from Oxford city centre. Guests can reach the famous Oxford University Colleges on foot within 10 minutes, and the Bodleian Library and Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology are similarly close. The riverside terrace offers outdoor seating with direct views of the river and Folly Bridge.

Rooms

Each of the 19 bedrooms is individually decorated, and some rooms include river views. All rooms have a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with free toiletries; selected rooms also provide bathrobes and slippers. The family room is spacious enough for four, and all rooms come with air conditioning and tea/coffee making facilities.

Dining

A hearty cooked breakfast using local produce and seasonal ingredients is served each morning in the pub restaurant. The evening menu changes regularly to feature seasonal produce, and the bar offers a rotating selection of real ales and craft beers. Guests can dine on the riverside terrace or in the interior restaurant with views of the Thames.

Activities & Nearby Attractions

The hotel provides access to boat hire for river cruises and punting directly from the pub's riverside area. Oxford's historic attractions, including the Ashmolean Museum and Oxford University Museum of Natural History, are within a 10-minute walk. The city centre's shops and theatres are also reachable on foot in the same time.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Guests can bring dogs upon request, and the hotel provides pet bowls and comfortable bedding for four-legged visitors. The property is smoke-free but allows pets in designated rooms, with CCTV and security alarms ensuring safety. Express check-in/out is available for all guests, including those travelling with pets.

Highlights

Location: On the River Thames, 10 min from Oxford city centre

Rooms: 19 individually decorated rooms with river views

Dining: Hearty cooked breakfast with local produce & seasonal menu

Activities: Boat hire for cruises and punting on-site

Pet-Friendly: Dogs allowed with pet bowls and bedding

“The riverside setting here is undeniably a significant draw, offering lovely views and easy access to the city's heart. Rooms, often described as cozy and nicely decorated, benefit from attentive staff and a generally well-kept environment. It strikes me as a comfortable base with good food, particularly if you appreciate a classic pub atmosphere alongside your stay.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at 4shotels

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
    16 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
  • Family Room
    2 persons
    16 m²
    1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
  • Small Double Room
    2 persons
    12 m²
    1 Double bed
    Air conditioning
    Heating
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

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
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Head of the River, guests are invited to delight in a variety of British-inspired dishes that embrace seasonal, local produce delivered fresh every day. Enjoy a traditional, yet relaxed atmosphere near the bustling boatyard and indulge in generous portions crafted by a talented kitchen team.
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
Traditional setting with cheerful blue tables and chairs surrounding a historic winch and al fresco bar.
Key Offerings
A rotating array of craft beers from around the world complements hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free selections.
Reservation
Not required
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner: Monday to Friday 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM & 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM; Friday until 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM & 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM.

Head Of The River Location

Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, true
Explore Oxford
Explore Oxford's Vibrant Scene
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Christ Church
5 minutes' walk
Christ Church features stunning architecture and rich history, home to an impressive cathedral and beautiful gardens.
The Covered Market Oxford
9 minutes' walk
A bustling market showcasing local produce, unique crafts, and eateries, perfect for a taste of Oxford's vibrant food scene.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
13 minutes' walk
A prestigious museum with collections spanning centuries. Free admission with rotating exhibitions and guided tours available.
Oxford Botanic Garden
15 minutes' walk
The oldest botanic garden in Britain, featuring diverse plant species, serene landscapes, and seasonal displays throughout the year.
Discover the local attractions near Head Of The River
Uncover notable attractions near Head Of The River Oxford to enrich your stay in the city.
Ideal for nature lovers: Oxford Botanic Garden
Great for local shopping: The Covered Market Oxford
Best for historic architecture: Radcliffe Camera
Perfect for scenic photo opportunities: Bridge of Sighs
Suited for discovering scientific exhibits: Oxford University Museum of Natural History
Well suited for leisurely walks: Magdalen College Deer Park
Works well for history enthusiasts: Oxford Castle
Punting on the River Cherwell
15 minutes' walk
Punting offers a relaxing way to enjoy the scenic riverside. Rentals available seasonally with guided tours for beginners.
Christ Church Meadow Walk
6 minutes' walk
Leisurely strolls in Christ Church Meadow provide a peaceful retreat in nature, ideal for relaxation and family outings.
The White House
5 minutes' walk
Charming British bistro offering classic dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended for dinner service.
Victors Oxford
9 minutes' walk
A stylish venue with an eclectic menu featuring international cuisine, perfect for date nights or casual dinners.
Pho Restaurant
9 minutes' walk
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful pho. Vegetarian options available.
Discover dining options near Head Of The River
Seek out dining options near Head Of The River Oxford to enhance your culinary experience.
Perfect for fine dining with river views: The Folly Restaurant
Great for dessert lovers: George And Danver
Ideal for a casual coffee break: Caffe Ethos
Best for quick and delicious pizza: Pizza Artisan
Sheldonian Theatre
8 minutes' walk
A historic theatre hosting concerts and performances in a stunning architectural setting. Check for upcoming events.
Carfax Tower
8 minutes' walk
An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of Oxford. Family-friendly and a perfect backdrop for photos.
Getting around
  • 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 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 score
Based on 770 verified reviews
8.4 /10
Great
86 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free WiFi
8.3/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
8.3/10
Pros
Riverside location
Pleasant staff
Delicious breakfast
Cons
Small room
Poor lighting
Slow service
Guest reviews
based on 1409 reviews
8.8/10
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.
Open reviews
FAQs
About Head Of The River
What is the distance from Head Of The River to the city center of Oxford?
The hotel is located just a few minutes' walk from Oxford city center, approximately 1 km away.
Which popular attractions are near Head Of The River?
Nearby attractions include the Bodleian Library (1 km), Oxford University Museum of Natural History (1 km), and Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology (1 km).
Is breakfast available at Head Of The River?
Guests can enjoy a hearty cooked breakfast each morning for an additional charge of 11 GBP.
What dining options are available on-site at Head Of The River?
The hotel features a pub restaurant offering an evening menu that includes local produce and seasonal ingredients.
What amenities are available in the rooms at Head Of The River?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea making facilities, and private modern bathrooms with free toiletries.
Does Head Of The River have facilities for pets?
Pets are allowed on request, with potential additional charges.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Head Of The River?
Check-in is available from 15:00, and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Head Of The River from Gloucestershire airport?
The hotel is approximately 75 km from Gloucestershire airport.
Is there free Wi-Fi available at Head Of The River?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.
What types of drinks are served at the bar at Head Of The River?
The bar offers a range of real ales, premium international imports, and a variety of craft beers.
Is a smoking area available at Head Of The River?
The hotel is designated as non-smoking on-site.

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