River Cruise with Three Course Riverside Restaurant Dining

Make your visit to Oxford truly memorable with this combined river cruise and dining experience. For $122.56 per person, you get to glide along the Thames River on a scenic cruise lasting approximately 2 hours, complemented by a delicious 3-course a la carte meal at The Folly restaurant. The tour departs from The Folly Restaurant and ends back at the same spot, ensuring a seamless experience. The small group size, with a maximum of 12 travelers, guarantees personalized service and an intimate atmosphere. This tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxing cruise combined with fine dining, especially suitable for special occasions or romantic outings.

Though the cruise itself is relatively short, averaging about 30 to 40 minutes, the quality of the meal and the views make it an appealing choice. Notably, the tour is highly rated with a 5.0/5 from 188 reviews, and 98% of participants recommend it, reflecting strong satisfaction. Keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the experience, and it’s advisable to book 34 days in advance to secure your spot.

Key Points

• Scenic Thames River cruise in Oxford, approximately 2 hours long
• Includes a glass of Prosecco to toast while enjoying views of Christchurch Meadows and university boathouses
• Delicious 3-course meal at the Folly restaurant, with vegetarian options available
• Small group setting ensures attentive and personalized service
• Ideal for special occasions, romantic evenings, or relaxing days in Oxford
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

The Thames River Cruise: A Stunning 30-40 Minute Journey

The river cruise is the highlight for many, offering views of Folly Bridge, Christ Church College, and Oxford Meadows. The guide, likely to be friendly and knowledgeable, leads you through the tranquil waterways, making it an enjoyable and informative experience. Despite its shorter duration, the cruise provides enough time to take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy a refreshing Prosecco.

The boat navigates smoothly around Oxford’s historic and picturesque waterways, and the skipper’s commentary enriches the ride with insights about the river and the city’s history. The boat ride is particularly praised for its relaxed atmosphere and the personalized service from the crew.

The Historic Stop at Folly Bridge

The cruise pauses at Folly Bridge, one of Oxford’s most iconic landmarks. Here, travelers can dine beside the historic bridge in the romantic setting of The Folly restaurant. The 1 hour 30-minute stop allows ample time to enjoy the 3-course meal in a cozy, elegant atmosphere.

Many reviews highlight the faultless food and service at The Folly, describing the dinner as superb. The restaurant offers an a la carte menu, and vegetarian options are available. The outdoor patio and river views enhance the dining experience, creating a perfect scene for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

The 3-Course Dining Experience at The Folly

The dinner at The Folly is one of the most praised aspects, with reviewers highlighting the quality of the food and attentive service. The portion sizes are generous, and the menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes. Guests note that the food exceeds expectations for a restaurant associated with a river cruise experience.

The atmosphere in the restaurant is romantic and quaint, with many describing it as perfect for celebrating special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. The dining quality is consistently rated faultless, with some reviews mentioning the duck liver parfait as a standout appetizer.

Exceptional Guides and Service

The guides and staff are consistently praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge. One guide, nicknamed Nick, is noted for being very friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall cruise. The skipper, such as George, is described as kind and well-informed, making the boat ride both entertaining and educational.

The restaurant staff at The Folly are described as friendly and efficient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Many reviews emphasize how personalized and attentive the service feels, adding value to the overall experience.

Booking, Logistics, and Practical Tips

This tour is typically booked about 34 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The meeting point is The Folly Restaurant at 1 Folly Brg, Oxford, where the boat departs and returns. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, allowing for personalized attention.

The dress code is smart casual, and most travelers can participate, as no significant physical requirements are noted. The tour includes all taxes and fees, with no additional charges for the cruise or meal. Weather conditions can affect the experience, so the tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, with a full refund or alternative date offered.

The Experience for Special Occasions

This combined river cruise and dinner is an excellent choice for celebrating special moments. The romantic setting, delicious food, and scenic views make it ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a relaxing evening in Oxford. Reviewers frequently mention the delightful atmosphere and high-quality service that make it a memorable event.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

Although the dinner at The Folly is described by some as slightly expensive, many regard the quality of the food and the service as well worth the price. The short cruise offers a relaxing and scenic experience without being overly lengthy, making it a great option for a relaxed afternoon or evening.

The tour’s excellent reviews and perfect ratings reflect consistent satisfaction, especially among those seeking a combination of sightseeing, fine dining, and hospitality. The small group size ensures a personal touch, making it stand out from larger or more generic offerings.

The Sum Up: An Elegant Way to See Oxford from the Water

This river cruise with a 3-course Riverside Restaurant dining experience in Oxford offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, educational commentary, and gourmet dining. The short cruise provides an intimate view of Folly Bridge, Christ Church Meadows, and the university boat houses, all in a relaxing setting.

The dinner at The Folly enhances the overall experience, with many reviewers calling the food faultless and the service friendly and attentive. While the cruise duration may seem brief, the quality of the views and meal makes it a worthwhile option—especially for special occasions or those wanting a romantic, memorable evening.

This Oxford experience is highly recommended for those who appreciate scenic waterways, excellent food, and personal service. It combines the charm of Oxford’s waterways with the luxury of fine dining, making it a truly special activity in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum drinking age is 18 years, and no specific mention is made of children, so it is best suited for adults.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours, including the cruise and meal stop.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the cruise, glass of Prosecco, 3-course dinner, all taxes, and fees.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the 3-course meal.

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

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, the dress code is smart casual.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What should I do if I want to book?
Booking is recommended 34 days in advance to guarantee availability, especially during peak times.