How to Experience Oxford Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise

If you want to explore the natural beauty of Oxford’s waterways while indulging in an indulgent afternoon tea, the Oxford Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise is the perfect choice for you. This guided tour allows tourists to relax on a boat and enjoy stunning views of Oxford’s scenic riverbanks, while also serving scrumptious treats. Below is a detailed guide that will help you plan your tour to explore Oxford’s best river cruise.

Experience

The Oxford Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise takes tourists along the University Regatta course, which passes through Christ Church Meadows, the University College Boat Houses, and other famous landmarks in Oxford. You’ll be able to spot bustling rowing crews, punts, and pleasure boats, all vying for space on the river, giving you a glimpse of the energy and dynamism of Oxford at play. As you reach Iffley Lock, you’ll experience the beauty of the serene countryside mingling with manmade infrastructure. Steeped in history and ringed by charming buildings, it is considered one of the most beautiful spots along the river. The cruise then takes you through the sprawling water meadows that surround Oxford, providing ample opportunities to see wildlife amidst the greenery, such as overhanging willows and luscious banks.

Highlights

Here are some major highlights of the cruise that make it a must-have experience on your Oxford itinerary:

Cruise along the University Regatta course

Glide along the University Regatta course, a busy and vibrant section of the river where rowing crews, punts, and pleasure boats are always in action.

Travel through Iffley Lock

Experience the breathtaking view of the countryside mingled with manmade infrastructure as you pass through one of the most beautiful spots along the river.

Enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea served aboard

Savor some delicious treats and refreshing tea, served aboard the boat. You can unwind, relax and explore the breathtaking surroundings, all while enjoying the plush interior of the boat

Sail through the Water Meadows and spot wildlife around Iffley

The cruise then takes you through the sprawling water meadows that surround Oxford, providing ample opportunities to spot wildlife.

Full description

The Oxford Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise is a leisurely, two-hour tour that departs from Folly Bridge, taking you through the heart of Oxford’s waterways. The tour offers a glimpse of Oxford’s rich history and allows you to explore one of the tranquil corners of the city. The boat departs at 2:30 PM and you are requested to arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. The tour passes through Iffley Lock on the way to Rose Island, a popular destination of Lewis Carroll and Alice Liddell. It offers a glimpse of the life and culture of Oxford and provides unique access to some of the city’s scenic and historical spots. You will be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne and a selection of sweet and savory treats, ranging from cucumber sandwiches and scones with cream and jam to an excellent selection of teas. The afternoon tea menu features a delightful variety of desserts, biscuits, and pastries all freshly made and beautifully presented. So you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery and savor the delights of the afternoon tea in one go.

How to book

You can book the Oxford Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise by visiting the website here. The tour costs £42 per person, with children under 12 years of age charged at a reduced rate of £25. The prices include taxes, fees, and gratuities, meaning you don’t have to worry about any hidden additional costs. Book Your Tour Now In conclusion, the Oxford Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise is a must-try experience for anyone visiting Oxford. You get to appreciate Oxford’s beautiful riverbanks while indulging in scrumptious afternoon tea. With plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, take photos and relax, this cruise is an excellent way to unwind during your Oxford visit. So, book here and enjoy your cruise along the stunning waterways of Oxford.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oxford

1. What is Oxford?

Oxford is a historic university city located in the county of Oxfordshire in South East England. It is widely known for its prestigious and renowned university, the University of Oxford, which was founded in the 12th century.

2. How do I get to Oxford?

Oxford is easily accessible by train or car. There are regular trains from London Paddington and Marylebone stations, as well as from other major cities in the UK such as Birmingham and Manchester. If you are driving, Oxford is approximately an hour and a half drive from London and is well connected to major roads such as the M40 and A34.

3. What are the top attractions in Oxford?

Oxford has a wealth of attractions, including: – The University of Oxford: the oldest university in the English-speaking world with stunning architecture and a rich history. – Ashmolean Museum: the oldest public museum in the UK with art and archaeology collections from around the world. – Oxford Castle and Prison: a medieval castle that has been used as a prison for over 1,000 years. – The Botanic Garden: a beautiful garden filled with an array of plants and trees from around the world. – Christ Church Cathedral: a beautiful cathedral that features stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

4. What are the best places to eat in Oxford?

Oxford has a thriving food scene, with options for every budget. Some of the best places to eat in Oxford include: – The Rickety Press: a gastro pub with a focus on local and seasonal produce. – The Rose: a cozy and atmospheric pub with a varied menu and great beer selection. – The Magdalen Arms: a popular gastropub with a menu inspired by British and European cuisine. – The White Rabbit: a lively restaurant with a focus on small plates and sharing. – Al-Andalus Tapas Bar: a Spanish tapas bar with a buzzing atmosphere and authentic dishes.

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

The best time to visit Oxford is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is generally warm and sunny, and many of the gardens and outdoor attractions are in full bloom. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are also good times to visit when the crowds are smaller and the weather is still mild.

6. What are some free things to do in Oxford?

There are plenty of free things to do in Oxford, including: – Stroll through the University of Oxford’s Botanic Garden – Explore the Ashmolean Museum’s collections – Visit the Radcliffe Camera, a stunning historic library – Walk along the Oxford Canal – Take a self-guided tour of Oxford’s historic colleges

7. Is Oxford a family-friendly destination?

Yes, Oxford is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. There are plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions, including: – Oxford Castle and Prison – Oxford Science Oxford – The Story Museum – Pitt Rivers Museum – Oxford Botanic Garden

8. What is the nightlife like in Oxford?

Oxford has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to suit all tastes. Some of the top nightlife spots in Oxford include: – The Cellar: a basement club that hosts live music and DJ nights. – The Varsity Club: a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. – The Turf Tavern: a historic pub with a lively atmosphere and great beer selection. – The Jericho Tavern: a popular pub with live music and events. – Atik: a large club with several dancefloors and a VIP area.

9. Are there any festivals or events in Oxford?

Yes, there are several festivals and events in Oxford throughout the year, including: – Oxford Literary Festival: a celebration of literature and writing with talks, workshops, and author events. – Oxford May Music Festival: a month-long celebration of classical music featuring performances in venues across the city. – Cowley Road Carnival: a vibrant cultural festival with music, dance, food, and entertainment. – Oxford Christmas Market: a festive market featuring crafts, gifts, and seasonal food and drink.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Oxford: A Comprehensive Guide

Oxford is a city full of beauty, history, and culture, and it’s a popular destination for tourists from around the world. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to decide how to spend their time in this amazing city. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best things to do and see in Oxford, from exploring its famous landmarks and museums to visiting its quaint pubs and unique shops.

1. Visit Oxford’s Landmarks

Oxford is home to a wealth of famous landmarks and attractions, and a visit to this city wouldn’t be complete without exploring as many of them as possible. Here are some of our top recommendations:

a. The Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum is the oldest public museum in the UK and boasts an impressive collection of art and artefacts from around the world. Visitors can see everything from ancient Egyptian mummies and Roman sculptures to contemporary art and ceramics.

b. Oxford Castle and Prison

Oxford Castle and Prison is a must-see attraction for those interested in the city’s history. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has played a key role in the city’s development ever since. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and explore its towers, dungeons, and prison cells.

c. Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera

The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and has been a center of learning in Oxford for over 400 years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the library and explore its many reading rooms and collections. The nearby Radcliffe Camera is a stunning circular building that houses some of the library’s most valuable books and manuscripts.

2. Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore the city of Oxford is on foot. There are several companies that offer guided walking tours of the city, including the official Oxford Walking Tours. These tours are a great way to learn about the city’s history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide, and you’ll get a chance to see some of the city’s hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.

3. Visit Oxford’s Pubs

Oxford is home to several traditional pubs, some of which date back hundreds of years. These pubs are a great place to relax with a pint and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. Some of our favorite pubs include:

a. The Turf Tavern

The Turf Tavern has been a popular spot for students and locals alike since the 14th century. The pub’s cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating area make it a great place to enjoy a pint on a sunny day.

b. The Eagle and Child

The Eagle and Child is famous for being the regular drinking spot of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, two of the most famous authors of the 20th century. The pub’s interior is filled with photographs and memorabilia of the two authors, making it a must-visit spot for literature fans.

4. Shop at Oxford’s Unique Stores

Oxford is home to several unique and independent shops that are perfect for picking up souvenirs and gifts. Some of our favorite stores include:

a. Blackwell’s Bookshop

Blackwell’s Bookshop is one of the largest and most famous bookshops in the UK. Visitors can spend hours browsing its many shelves and picking up rare and hard-to-find books.

b. The Covered Market

The Covered Market is a historic market that has been a part of Oxford’s city center for over 200 years. Visitors can find everything from fresh produce and handmade crafts to clothing and souvenirs.

5. Explore Oxford’s Parks and Gardens

Oxford is a city full of green spaces, and there are several parks and gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Here are some of our top picks:

a. University Parks

University Parks is a 70-acre park that’s located in the heart of the city. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the grass, take a boat ride on the river, or even play a game of cricket on the park’s cricket fields.

b. Christ Church Meadows

Christ Church Meadows is a beautiful green space that’s located next to Christ Church College. Visitors can stroll along the river, watch the boats go by, or even catch a glimpse of some of the college’s resident cows.

Book Your Tour Now

Oxford is a city full of history, culture, and charm, and there’s no shortage of things to do and see here. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s famous landmarks, shopping at its unique stores, or simply enjoying a pint at a traditional pub, there’s something for everyone in Oxford. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to the UK, be sure to add Oxford to your itinerary – you won’t regret it!