Oxford University Colleges Guided Punting Tour
Description
Nothing captures the charm of England quite like a peaceful punt gliding along the calm waters of a river, surrounded by nature, meadows, and striking historic buildings. This 30-minute punting tour on the River Cherwell departs from the boathouse and passes some of Oxford’s most scenic spots, including the Botanic Gardens, Magdalen College School fields, Christ Church Meadows, and the gardens of St Hilda’s College — offering a chance to experience some of the most idyllic corners of Oxford.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Make your own way to Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, where a manager will meet you and direct you to the departure point for your punting tour!
See famous sites of literary inspiration as you glide along the River Cherwell. Set off from the boathouse & visit Oxford’s famous Botanic Gardens, Magdalen College School fields, Christ Church Meadows, & St Hilda’s College gardens.
Start your relaxing trip by being chauffeured past the UK’s oldest botanic garden, with the dreaming spires of Oxford peeking over the trees.
Continue your peaceful trip through the nature of Oxford by passing Christ Church Meadow, a large area owned by the College which allows access to many of the cities boathouses.
One of several extensive College Gardens, St Hilda’s boasts rich wildlife and seasonal colour year-round, perfect to appreciate on your serene trip along the River Cherwell!
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchairs and strollers can be left at the punting station and retrieved at the end of the tour.
- In autumn and winter, Oxford’s rivers can experience high or low water levels. Tours may be cancelled in such cases, with a refund or alternative option provided. These conditions are beyond our control.
Reviews(35)
Had a truly lovely time walking around the campus with Stephan and learning about the history of the various colleges. Followed up the walking tour with a lovely punt by Charles who filled in some gaps as we floated down the Thames.
This was a great, relaxing way to spend part of an afternoon in Oxford! Percy was our punter; he was great. Very friendly and gave us lots of information about Oxford.
The itinerary was not what was promised - you did not see any of the sights of Oxford, but rather went around an island in the river that was a playing field. The chauffeur gave no commentary but did answer questions when asked. (The chauffeur turned out to be a 16 yr old high school student and not a tour guide). This experience was very bad value for the money paid.
Thank you for your feedback. We would like to clarify that at no point do we state that the chauffeur is a tour guide. The chauffeur’s role is to drive and assist during the tour, and this can be done by either a younger or more experienced person. The route of the tour was clearly described as including the meadows, and the itinerary provided reflected this accurately. We regret if this was not what you expected, but we do not believe the experience was misrepresented or falsely advertised. We appreciate your comments and will continue to ensure our tour descriptions are clear for all guests.
After a mix up with time rescheduling & location for punting - Francesco persisted & was wonderful & patient to ensure we were able to enjoy our punting. Perfect time, late afternoon, lighting for photos was perfect. Wonderful guide! Thank you!! Jenny - Australia
A very relaxing ride expertly steered and poled by our guide. A bit of a challenge to get into the boat for a person with poor balance.
Grace has been very kind, friendly and prepared. It’s been a very pleasant visit. She’s shown us Oxford’s colleges in a very clear way. Thank you so much.
Excellent tour of the Old Town, Oxford schools and sights. Isabel our guide was very clear and eloquent in her account. Highly recommended this private tour, the value for money corresponds.
The most complete tour of the city was given to us by a student of the university, Isabel introduced us to the highlights of the university, luxury tour, very serious company, and formal.
This is a great tour. Just the right length. We had a lovely, smiling and engaging guide called Percy. He was so funny and sweet. It was lovely to be guided by him.
We has a great time on this punting tour! Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, and the ride was beautiful. We did a loop around an island in the river(?) through Oxford.
