Oxford: River Cruise and 6-Course Tasting at The Folly

If you’re visiting Oxford and want to combine sightseeing with exceptional dining, the River Cruise plus 6-Course Tasting at The Folly offers a charming and tasty way to spend a couple of hours. This experience melds the gentle glide of the river with a carefully curated meal, providing a balanced mix of scenic views and culinary delights. From cruise highlights like Folly Bridge and Christchurch Meadows to a sophisticated tasting menu, this tour brings together the best of Oxford’s outdoor beauty and its thriving food scene.

One aspect we love is how this experience offers an elegant, relaxed way to see the city. The 40-minute cruise is leisurely and informative, with a complimentary glass of Champagne adding a touch of celebration. The subsequent meal at The Folly, with its exquisite six-course tasting menu, elevates the outing into a true indulgence. However, a possible consideration is that the meal pricing is separate from the tour—additional drinks and extras are paid directly at the restaurant—so budget accordingly.

This experience is perfect for those wanting a romantic outing, a special celebration, or simply a memorable way to see Oxford with good food and a bit of bubbly. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate thoughtful details, quality cuisine, and scenic views, and who don’t mind a bit of a splurge to enjoy a luxurious two-hour escape.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: A 40-minute Edwardian river cruise offers views of Folly Bridge, Christchurch Meadows, and University boathouses.
• Champagne Toast: Includes a complimentary glass of Champagne to toast the river vistas.
• Gourmet Dining: A six-course tasting menu showcasing seasonal dishes at The Folly.
• Wine Options: Choose from a wine pairing (£39 per person) or select from the restaurant’s extensive wine list.
• No Hotel Transfers: The experience starts and ends at The Folly; transport is not included.
• Age Restriction for Champagne: Participants must be over 18 to receive the included Champagne, with soft drink options available.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The tour begins at The Folly, a charming restaurant situated right by the river, a perfect starting point to combine dining with sightseeing. Upon arrival, you board an elegant Edwardian River Launch, which slowly drifts along the Thames. The cruise is designed for a relaxed enjoyment of Oxford’s quintessential sights—from Folly Bridge, which lends the experience its name, to Christchurch Meadows and the university’s boathouses, all bathed in the golden glow of late afternoon light.

Travelers who have taken this cruise often comment on how stunning the views are, especially as the sun dips lower. One reviewer mentioned, “It was a wonderful time to be on the river, with the light taking on a magical quality.” The cruise lasts about 40 minutes, and during that time, a glass of Champagne is served—adding an extra layer of pleasure to the tranquil ride.

The boat itself isn’t wheelchair accessible, though efforts are made to assist those with limited mobility. Pets and large luggage aren’t allowed on board, so plan accordingly. Groups tend to be small, making for a more intimate experience, with guides like Paul providing knowledgeable commentary along the way. Reviewers particularly appreciated his enthusiasm and local insights, describing him as “amazing” and “very engaging.”

Disembarking at The Folly, you’re greeted with the option to enjoy your six-course tasting either inside the cozy restaurant or on a floating river terrace. The menu showcases seasonal ingredients and is designed to deliver a refined but approachable dining experience. The focus is on quality rather than quantity, with each dish carefully prepared to highlight fresh, local produce.

The wine pairing option at £39 per person is highly recommended if you’re looking to enhance each course with a complementary wine. Otherwise, the restaurant offers an extensive wine list to choose from, allowing for a personalized experience. As one reviewer noted, “The menu was interesting, and the wine options complemented it well,” though some mentioned they’d love more alternatives in the menu.

The reviews reveal that food quality is generally excellent, with many guests praising the “delicious food” and “good wine.” One traveler found the tour “very good” overall, citing the seamless combination of sightseeing and dining as a major plus. Others appreciated the intimate atmosphere and attentive service, making it a memorable experience worth the price.

Pricing at about $173.76 per person includes the cruise, Champagne, and the tasting menu, but keep in mind that additional drinks and service charges are paid separately at the restaurant. While it might seem like a splurge, many guests feel the value justifies the expense given the combination of scenic beauty and gourmet dining.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience caters best to travelers seeking a refined, relaxing outing that combines visual pleasure with culinary indulgence. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a memorable way to explore Oxford’s scenic past while tasting some of its best seasonal dishes. The inclusion of Champagne and optional wine pairing elevates the experience into something a little more luxurious, perfect for those wanting to treat themselves.

It’s also a good choice for food lovers, as the tasting menu is a highlight—showcasing seasonal ingredients and creative presentation. History buffs and sightseeing enthusiasts will enjoy the views and commentary during the cruise, which offers a different perspective on Oxford’s iconic landmarks.

However, it’s worth noting that the experience isn’t particularly suited to those with mobility issues, given the boat’s accessibility limitations. Also, travelers should be prepared for additional costs if they opt for extra drinks or side dishes, as these are not included in the initial ticket price.

Final Thoughts

This combined river cruise and fine dining experience offers a well-rounded, elegant outing that balances sightseeing with gourmet pleasure. It’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy Oxford from a different angle—gliding smoothly past historic sights while savoring a beautifully crafted six-course meal. The inclusion of Champagne adds a celebratory touch, making it suitable for special occasions.

While the price might seem steep on paper, many guests find the overall value justified by the quality of transportation, views, and food. The knowledgeable guides and attentive service only enhance the experience, making it an indulgent yet accessible way to enjoy Oxford.

If you’re after a classy, scenic, and delicious activity, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and perhaps even exceed them.

FAQs

• How long does the entire experience last? The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including the river cruise and meal time at The Folly.
• Is the river cruise wheelchair accessible? No, the boat is not wheelchair accessible, though efforts are made to accommodate limited mobility where possible.
• Can I bring my pet? Pets are not allowed on the boat.
• Are luggage or large bags permitted? No, such items are not allowed onboard.
• Is the Champagne included in the price? Yes, a glass of Champagne is included with the cruise, but additional drinks are paid for separately at the restaurant.
• Can I choose different wine options? Yes, you can opt for a 6-course wine pairing at £39 per person or select from the restaurant’s wine list.
• What should I wear? Smart casual is appropriate—think nice daywear suitable for both the boat and the restaurant.
• Is this experience suitable for food allergies or dietary restrictions? It’s best to check directly with The Folly ahead of time to discuss any dietary needs, as menus are seasonal.

In all, this experience offers a classy way to enjoy Oxford’s sights and flavors in tandem. Whether celebrating or just seeking a memorable afternoon, you’ll find the blend of scenic views, excellent service, and delicious food hard to beat.