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Head of the River

Last updated: 03 December, 2023

Perched right on the banks of the River Isis, this former boatyard is now a bright and breezy gastropub with rooms.

One of the city’s more affordable options, chic bedrooms pay homage to Oxford’s academic heritage, with framed Penguin classics, book-lined wallpaper prints and smart, contemporary furniture.

The heart of the action is the huge old yard itself, brightened with blue tables, an outdoor bar, and enough patio heaters to make it comfortable to drink or eat outside well into the autumn months. Dive into the extensive gin selection and settle back with a plate of local charcuterie to watch the world glide by.

Oxford’s colleges, galleries and shops are all an easy ten-minute walk away.

Surrounding area

Set overlooking the River Isis, by day the water can be busy with boats and punts (there are boat moorings beside the pub). On summer evenings it can be quite noisy, but at other times of the year it’s a tranquil place to be at night.

A hotch-potch of historic houses and residential flats surround the pub on both sides of the river, while Christchurch Meadow is just outside the door – a tranquil green space steeped in history.

On the other side of the Folly Bridge, there are punts to hire and river cruises that offer a gentle couple of hours gliding along the Isis.

Price

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General amenities

Key facilities

Airport transfers: Not available
Beach: None
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Kids club
Parking
: Nearby *
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room amenities

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Hot tub (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed