Oxford: River Thames Cruise & Riverside Dinner at The Folly

Summary

River Thames views, Christ Church College, and riverside dining

You’ll sip Prosecco as you cruise along Oxford’s River Thames with a local guide pointing out sights like Christ Church College. Afterward, enjoy a three-course dinner at The Folly restaurant—choose indoor or riverside seating and taste seasonal dishes while watching boats drift by. It’s an evening that feels quietly special, even after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound of glasses clinking as we stepped onto the boat right off The Folly’s terrace in Oxford. There was this soft golden light over the River Thames—almost theatrical—and someone handed me a glass of Prosecco before I could even get my bearings. Our guide, who had that gentle Oxford accent, pointed out Christ Church College as we drifted past. It looked almost unreal with the willows dipping into the water and students wandering along the meadows. I kept thinking, “Is this really just a pre-dinner thing?”

The river was quieter than I expected; just the low hum of conversation and that gentle slap of water against the hull. At one point, a couple of ducks paddled alongside us like they were part of the show. The air smelled faintly of cut grass and something sweet from someone’s perfume—I never figured out whose. When we circled back toward Folly Bridge, our guide told us a story about rowing races here in spring. He laughed when I tried to say “Thames” like a local (I still can’t get it right).

Back on land, dinner at The Folly felt almost too easy after floating for 45 minutes. We got to choose between sitting inside or out by the river—so we picked outside, obviously. The menu had these seasonal dishes I couldn’t pronounce (and didn’t try to), but everything tasted fresh and kind of comforting after being on the water. There’s something about eating while you can still hear the river that makes you slow down without meaning to. Even now, I sometimes catch myself remembering how that evening felt—like Oxford had let us in on a little secret for just those few hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — River Thames cruise and dining

• Embark boat from restaurant terrace
• Cruise along the River Thames
• Enjoy complimentary Prosecco onboard
• Cruise by Christ Church College and Meadows
• Disembark at The Folly restaurant
• Dine three course meal at The Folly

Top questions

How long is the River Thames cruise in Oxford?

The cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes before dinner.

Is Prosecco included during the Oxford river cruise?

Yes, each guest receives a complimentary glass of Prosecco or a soft drink alternative aboard.

Where does the boat depart for this Oxford dinner cruise?

The boat departs directly from The Folly restaurant terrace in central Oxford.

What sights do you see during the cruise?

You’ll pass Christ Church College and Meadows along the River Thames.

Is dinner included after the cruise?

Yes, a three-course meal at The Folly restaurant is included after your cruise.

Are vegetarian options available for dinner?

Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request at The Folly.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the experience.

What is the dress code for this experience?

The dress code is smart casual for both cruise and dinner at The Folly.

What’s included

Your evening includes a 45-minute guided River Thames cruise with complimentary Prosecco (or soft drink), followed by a three-course dinner at The Folly restaurant beside historic Folly Bridge in Oxford—all taxes and fees are covered so you can just relax and enjoy every moment.