Embark on a delightful river cruise in Oxford, featuring a traditional afternoon tea served onboard.
This 1.5-hour journey showcases the picturesque River Thames, including iconic sights like Christ Church Meadows and the University College Boat Houses, as you glide through the historic university city.
✓ Afternoon tea✓ Driver/guide✓ Live commentary on board✓ Local taxes✕ Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)✕ GratuitiesCruise Itinerary
This leisurely 1.5-hour cruise commences in the afternoon from central Oxford. You'll sail downstream from Folly Bridge, experiencing the most celebrated stretch of the River Thames in Oxford.
As you travel along the University Regatta Course, you'll pass Christ Church Meadows, the University College Boat Houses, and other notable landmarks en route to Iffley Lock. This section of the river is often lively, with rowing crews, punts, and pleasure boats creating a vibrant scene of Oxford life.
Navigating through the Iffley Lock is an experience in itself. The combination of river scenery and fascinating architecture creates a truly picturesque setting.
Beyond Iffley, the boat enters the serene water meadows surrounding Oxford. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the green banks and amidst the weeping willows.
A delightful afternoon tea, provided by the renowned riverside restaurant, The Folly, is served aboard the boat. The traditional menu includes:
A selection of finger sandwiches
Homemade scones with strawberry jam, clotted cream, and fresh strawberries
A variety of cakes, tarts, or petit fours
Tea
Beverages can be purchased at the departure point before boarding.
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking.
Please check in at The Folly restaurant reception.
Please check in at The Folly restaurant reception.
The minimum drinking age is 18 years.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. Service animals are allowed on this tour. Public transportation options are available nearby. This tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Infant meals are not included. Please contact us directly and as early as possible regarding any allergies or dietary requirements. This tour is not recommended for travelers with severe food allergies. Afternoon Tea Sightseeing River Cruise in Oxford
Book in advance, especially during peak season. Arrive at the check-in point at least 15 minutes before departure. Inform the provider of any dietary restrictions when booking. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Dress comfortably for a relaxing boat trip. Consider purchasing drinks at the departure point if you wish to have them during the cruise. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 7418P6
Activity offered by Oxford River Cruises via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Couples Families Seniors Food enthusiasts History buffs Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with scones and sandwiches. Cruise along the scenic River Thames in Oxford. See famous landmarks like Christ Church Meadows. Experience the unique Iffley Lock. Spot wildlife in the tranquil water meadows. Relaxing 1.5-hour journey through historic Oxford.
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What is included in the afternoon tea? + The afternoon tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with strawberry jam, clotted cream and fresh strawberries, a selection of cakes, tarts or petit fours, and tea.
Can I purchase alcoholic drinks on board? + Alcoholic drinks are not included but are available to purchase.
What happens if the weather is bad? + The cruise will be cancelled in case of bad weather.
How long is the cruise? + The cruise lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Where do I check in for the cruise? + You need to check in at The Folly restaurant reception.
Are there any age restrictions? + The minimum drinking age is 18 years.
★★★★★ Viator review
Highly recommended
Jodi_S, October 2026
Highly recommended. Very nice food selection. Good quality. Plenty to eat. Lovely tea offerings also. The cruise itself was informative and we had a delightful guide.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Lazy tea on the river
buckets1969, October 2026
I got this afternoon tea cruise for my birthday. The meet up is at the Folly Restaurant on the bridge as you come in to the main part of Oxford. The cruise lasts 1.5 hours.
The afternoon tea is 4 finger sandwiches, 2 scones and 3 other cakes each. There is a flask of hot water on the table for tea or coffee which is handed out before setting off.
The captain of the boat was a nice person with interesting commentary on the river but not overpowering. You travel through a lock and along a nice stretch of river to a large meadow and then back again. There were 7 passengers on the boat.
A relaxing afternoon on the river and worth doing as a special treat.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Good day out
stevecZ8965OB, October 2026
Great little trip but overpriced
★★★★★ Viator review
Pleasurable trip down the Thamas
Terry_U, October 2026
Very pleasant trip down the Thamas. The afternoon tea selections were excellent and the guide very knowledgeable with local knowledge and history.
★★★★★ Viator review
So worth it
Umme_A, September 2026
A lovely day, spent with lovely people. The skipper/captain of the boat was so respectful and insightful, providing great history about the area. the tour itself is beautiful, and goes through arched trees, university/colleges and houseboats (which also have great history, and told wonderfully by the skipper). The food was great, and always freshly prepared by the restaurant just before departing. Plenty of tea, hotwater, cakes, scones etc, and very yummy too! Thank you for a wonderful afternoon spent.
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