Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford

Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

This wonderful river cruise in Oxford includes a sumptuous traditional afternoon tea served aboard the boat. The 1.5-hour cruise takes in the highlights of the beautiful River Thames, such as Christ Church Meadows and the University College Boat Houses, as it flows through this historic university city.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Infant meals not included

Any allergies or dietary requirements should contact us directly, as early as possible

Not recommended for travellers with severe food allergies

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Afternoon tea

Driver/guide

Live commentary on board

Local taxes

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Gratuities

What To Expect

This relaxing 1.5-hour cruise starts in the afternoon from central Oxford and sails downstream from Folly Bridge taking in the best known reach of the River Thames in Oxford. Traveling down the University Regatta Course passing Christ Church Meadows, the University College Boat Houses and other landmarks on the way to Iffley lock. This is often a busy and vibrant section of the river where training rowing crews, punts and pleasure boats jostle for river space in an wonderful display of Oxford at play. Passing through the lock at Iffley is an experience in itself. The river scenery and fascinating buildings combining to form a picture perfect location. Beyond Iffley the boat travels in to the tranquil water meadows that surround Oxford and there are abundant opportunities to spot wildlife amongst the green banks and overhanging willows. Aboard the boat an indulgent afternoon tea is provided by the renowned riverside restaurant, The Folly. The traditional menu includes*: • An Selection of Finger Sandwiches • Homemade Scones with Strawberry Jam, Clotted Cream and Fresh Strawberries • A Selection of Cakes, Tarts or Petit Fours • Tea*Drinks to take aboard can be purchased at the departure point.

Options

Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford

Reviews

4.77

508 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

432

Meh
Jonathan A,
Jun 21, 2025
- Viator
3.00
The food was solid and the weather was wonderful. The actual tea was a bag in water rather than brewed which was disappointing. The “tour” was disappointing as well with no narration of what we were seeing or the history.
Relaxed teatime
Marcel F,
May 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00
It was really quite relaxed and you got a great selection for teatime. You drive along Oxford rowing clubs and through a lock.
Great snacks, nice boat...
Kerri H,
Apr 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Great snacks, nice boat ride. Highly recommend - two activities in one. Tour guide was very informative.
Beautiful trip
Paul M,
Sep 2, 2024
- Viator
5.00
The trip was beautiful and very well organised . We were given alternatives in relation to the route. The food was lovely and we were made to feel very much at home and relaxed
Extremely Overpriced
John F,
Aug 29, 2024
- Viator
2.00
Unfortunately, this event did not rise to expectations. We begin with the fact that there is no parking close to the restaurant. As two in our party have mobility issues, this started the day on a bad note. The morsels on the tea tray were fine but actually, it amounted to one sandwich per person, cut into quarters, a macaroon per person, two scones per person with Devon cream & a pot of jam, and a few other sweet items...nothing near what one would expect of a tea costing what this tea cost. The trip was uneventful. We were not treated to any facts along the journey, it was just a slow, rather boring ride on the river without passing any historical interest. We wanted to share this with family who flew in for the week but we were disappointed with what turned out to be a lack-lustre experience. So...no, we will not return nor will we recommend it.