River Cruise and Six Course Tasting Menu Experience

Explore Oxford’s River and Dining Scene with an Elegant Combination

The River Cruise and Six Course Tasting Menu Experience in Oxford, England offers a delightful blend of sightseeing and fine dining. Priced at $177.54 per person, this 2.5-hour tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet refined evening. The experience begins with a charming 45-minute river cruise aboard an Edwardian River Launch, providing stunning views of key Oxford landmarks like Folly Bridge, Christchurch Meadows, and the University boat houses.

After the cruise, guests are invited to enjoy a six-course tasting menu at The Folly Riverside Restaurant. This setting offers either indoor seating or an outdoor floating river terrace, creating a lovely atmosphere for savoring seasonal dishes. The menu can be paired with a six-course wine pairing or chosen from a comprehensive wine list, with a glass of Champagne included in the package. Most bookings are made about 23 days in advance, making it a well-planned option for a special evening.

While the tour runs for roughly 2 hours 30 minutes, it’s a compact experience that combines scenic views with gourmet dining. Its smaller group size—up to 6 travelers—helps ensure a personalized atmosphere. Open to most travelers, this experience suits those eager to combine sightseeing with a culinary treat, though a smart casual dress code is recommended.

Key Points

• Combines a scenic river cruise with a gourmet six-course tasting menu.
• Cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, offering views of Oxford landmarks.
• Includes a glass of Champagne and option for wine pairing.
• Most bookings are made 23 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity.
• Small group size (up to 6) enhances an intimate experience.
• Accessible to most travelers, with vegetarian options available.

The Elegant River Cruise in Oxford’s Historic Waterways

The river cruise part of this experience takes place on the Thames in Oxford, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting. During the 45-minute cruise, you’ll see iconic spots like Folly Bridge and Christchurch Meadows, with glimpses of the University boat houses and part of the Regatta course. The boat features pull-down sides, making it comfortable in different weather conditions, and the skipper Evie is noted for being friendly and informative.

Most guests find the cruise to be a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. The timing around sunset adds a touch of magic as the sunlight shimmers on the water. The cruise’s tranquil pace and scenic views help set a perfect mood for the evening ahead.

The Folly Riverside Restaurant and Its Distinctive Setting

Disembarking at The Folly, guests transition into a charming dining environment. The restaurant offers inside seating as well as a floating river terrace, both providing a cozy and scenic backdrop for the meal. The six-course tasting menu showcases seasonal dishes, highlighting the best ingredients available at the time.

The dining experience is complemented by the option of a wine pairing for all six courses, costing an additional £39 per person, or selecting wines from the restaurant’s extensive list. A glass of Champagne is included with the meal, adding a celebratory touch. The menu’s focus on quality and presentation makes it clear why The Folly is regarded as one of Oxford’s finest restaurants.

The Food: Six-Course Tasting and Wine Choices

The six-course tasting menu emphasizes seasonal dishes, crafted to showcase top-quality ingredients. Guests can enjoy a carefully curated culinary journey, paired with wines if they choose the wine pairing option. The comprehensive wine list offers ample choices beyond the included six-course pairing, allowing guests to customize their drinks.

The dining experience is described as a delight, with a reviewer noting the fabulous food as a highlight. The menu’s structure offers variety without the meal feeling rushed, and the presentation is elegant and thoughtful. The wine pairing adds extra enjoyment for those who appreciate wine, though the Champagne included provides a sparkling start.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The experience begins at The Folly Restaurant, located at 1 Folly Brg, Oxford. The activity concludes back at this same point, making logistics straightforward. The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from various parts of Oxford.

The dress code is smart casual, suitable for a refined evening out. The tour is accessible to most travelers, and service animals are permitted. Since the activity is limited to up to 6 participants, it offers a more intimate and personalized atmosphere compared to larger group tours.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

This experience depends on good weather; in case of poor conditions, it may be canceled. If canceled due to weather, guests are offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility for changing plans.

Customer Feedback on the Tour Experience

Reviews indicate strong appreciation for the pleasant boat ride and the friendly guide, especially praising the informative commentary during the cruise. The fabulous food at The Folly also receives high marks, with comments about the delightful pairing of wine and dishes.

However, some reviews mention disappointing experiences with the overall dining atmosphere, noting that when the food arrives, the experience feels underwhelming compared to the expectations set by the cruise. Setting expectations for a high-quality restaurant, most find the food and wine pairing to be highlights, though a few feel the rest of the experience could improve.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options in Oxford

This tour offers a unique combination of river sightseeing and fine dining, which sets it apart from standard Oxford city tours or castle visits. It complements experiences such as Oxford University walking tours or Windsor Castle tickets, providing a more relaxed and elegant evening alternative.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This experience appeals to those who enjoy scenic river views and culinary delights in a small-group setting. It’s ideal for romantic outings, special celebrations, or anyone wanting a luxurious yet relaxed way to enjoy Oxford at sunset. Given the small group size and upscale setting, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with smart casual attire and those seeking a gourmet experience.

Final Thoughts on the River Cruise and Tasting Menu

The Oxford river cruise combined with the six-course tasting menu offers a well-rounded evening of scenic beauty and refined dining. The 45-minute cruise provides memorable views and a calm atmosphere, while the dining at The Folly elevates the experience with seasonal dishes and wine options.

While the overall experience is praised for its intimate setting and quality offerings, some may find the dining experience slightly underwhelming if expecting a more lively ambiance. That said, the combination of views, delicious food, and wine makes this a noteworthy choice for visitors looking to enjoy Oxford from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Champagne included in the tour?
Yes, a complimentary glass of Champagne is included with the meal.

Can I choose a vegetarian menu?
Yes, vegetarian options are available on the six-course tasting menu.

What is the price for the wine pairing?
The six-course wine pairing costs £39 per person.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
The experience begins and ends at The Folly Restaurant at 1 Folly Brg, Oxford.

Is this experience accessible for most travelers?
Yes, it is suited for most travelers, with near public transportation and a small group size.

What should I wear?
A smart casual dress code is recommended for the meal portion of the experience.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, guests are offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

How many people participate in this tour?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.