Head of the River
$259
/ night
Avg. for September
Select dates to see prices and availability
$259
/ night
Avg. for September
Monthly average prices
Nightly prices at Head of the River average $174 in January, the cheapest month, and $344 in July, the most expensive, based on the last 12 months.
| Month | Average price |
|---|---|
| January | $174 |
| February | $187 |
| March | $216 |
| April | $253 |
| May | $288 |
| June | $337 |
| July | $344 |
| August | $252 |
| September | $259 |
| October | $235 |
| November | $202 |
| December | $182 |
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Sep · $259
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Most expensive: July (~$344)
Cheapest: January (~$174)
About this property
Centrally located inn in Oxford with a restaurant, garden views, and express check-in/check-out for a seamless stay.
Location
Located in Oxford City Centre, a neighborhood in Oxford, The Head of the River is near a train station and on the waterfront. River Thames and Wittenham Clumps reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Waterperry Gardens and Millets Farm Centre. Millets Falconry Centre and Didcot Railway Centre are also worth visiting.
Free Wi-Fi
Restaurant
Non-Smoking Rooms
Family Room
Garden
Express Check-In/Check-Out
Guest reviews
8.4
Very good
Based on 1,690 verified reviews
Who stays here?
Business
9%
Couple
53%
Family
19%
Group
12%
Solo
4%
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Reviews of Head of the River describe a charming riverside inn with a central, walkable location, very friendly staff, comfortable characterful rooms, and an on-site pub and terrace that many guests enjoy for food, drinks, and atmosphere.
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What guests think
Reviews of Head of the River describe a charming riverside inn with a central, walkable location, very friendly staff, comfortable characterful rooms, and an on-site pub and terrace that many guests enjoy for food, drinks, and atmosphere.
Breakfast is widely praised and the pub food often well liked, though a few found dinner average or specific dishes underwhelming. Rooms are generally cozy and well equipped, with river views in some and thoughtful extras like quality teas, but a few are small and noise from the bar, street, or thin walls can disturb. There is no lift and access involves narrow, steep stairs, and parking nearby can be difficult with no on-site option. Best suited to travelers comfortable with stairs and occasional noise.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
The on-site pub with a popular riverside terrace is a highlight for many. However, there is no lift and no on-site parking, which some guests found inconvenient.
Related guest reviews
8
Nicola
Aug 17, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Close to City Centre and on site pleasant pub, restaurant right at the side of the river. Quirky and comfortable room with very good tea and coffee and chocolates.
Close to City Centre and on site pleasant pub, restaurant right at the side of the river. Quirky and comfortable room with very good tea and coffee and chocolates.
10
Samrah
Jun 16, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Wonderful, laid back, clean, on-the-water pub with very charming rooms & great breakfast that was included in the room rate. Great dining menu, outdoor terrace always busy. Overall a very friendly & accommodating staff. Walkable to City Centre, Christ Church, Ashmolean, Botanical Gardens, groceries, train station, you name it! Loved it! Special thanks to Emms & the gentleman managing the guests on the outdoor terrace.
Wonderful, laid back, clean, on-the-water pub with very charming rooms & great breakfast that was included in the room rate. Great dining menu, outdoor terrace always busy. Overall a very friendly & accommodating staff. Walkable to City Centre, Christ Church, Ashmolean, Botanical Gardens, groceries, train station, you name it! Loved it! Special thanks to Emms & the gentleman managing the guests on the outdoor terrace.
10
Graeme
Mar 2, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Parking is difficult. We used the park and ride. Cheap
Parking is difficult. We used the park and ride. Cheap
10
Rebecka
Mar 6, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
We loved our stay! It was close to the major sights as well as the bus station and right by the river. Such cozy hotel and comfortable beds. We had a family room which was a good size and we enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee in the room. Nice pub and outdoor space.
We loved our stay! It was close to the major sights as well as the bus station and right by the river. Such cozy hotel and comfortable beds. We had a family room which was a good size and we enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee in the room. Nice pub and outdoor space.
10
Paul
Sep 28, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Friendly, helpful staff. Comfortable room. Excellent pub/restaurant. No lift.
Friendly, helpful staff. Comfortable room. Excellent pub/restaurant. No lift.
10
Thomas
Aug 4, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
This a great spot, with super kind service across the board at a very fair price point. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, and it’s nice to have a pub within the hotel. We would happily go back.
This a great spot, with super kind service across the board at a very fair price point. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, and it’s nice to have a pub within the hotel. We would happily go back.
10
Leigh
Aug 13, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely rooms and pub in a beautiful old building. No on-site parking is a bit of a nuisance, but also understandable given the amazing location!
Lovely rooms and pub in a beautiful old building. No on-site parking is a bit of a nuisance, but also understandable given the amazing location!
8
Katy
Jun 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely riverside pub with well decorated rooms. Bed was comfy and nice pillows. Good selection of complimentary tea and coffee and nice to have biscuits! A bit noisy if you have a bar side room but other than that a great stay.
Lovely riverside pub with well decorated rooms. Bed was comfy and nice pillows. Good selection of complimentary tea and coffee and nice to have biscuits! A bit noisy if you have a bar side room but other than that a great stay.
8
David
Sep 12, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
10
Mercedes
Mar 9, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
What an incredible find! I loved the quirkiness of this hotel along with it's great location. I had made a reservation for the wrong date, and they STILL honored the reservation. I was only here for one night but it was memorable. The pub had great food and beer. The room was quirky but with modern amenities, loved everything about this place and will definitely return. Staff were very, very helpful wish I had written this review the next day as I cannot remember their names .
What an incredible find! I loved the quirkiness of this hotel along with it's great location. I had made a reservation for the wrong date, and they STILL honored the reservation. I was only here for one night but it was memorable. The pub had great food and beer. The room was quirky but with modern amenities, loved everything about this place and will definitely return. Staff were very, very helpful wish I had written this review the next day as I cannot remember their names .
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Many guests found rooms clean and tidy, but feedback is inconsistent. Several noted dust or servicing gaps, and there was an isolated report of a mouse in the restaurant.
Related guest reviews
8
Aitch
Oct 25, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Great people and good food. Terrible cleanliness standards though, there was a mouse in the restaurant!
Great people and good food. Terrible cleanliness standards though, there was a mouse in the restaurant!
8
Karen
Jan 22, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely room but was a bit dusty and the bed not comfortable
Lovely room but was a bit dusty and the bed not comfortable
8
Daisy
Feb 7, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Servicing can improve — house keeping only takes out trash and makes bed.
Servicing can improve — house keeping only takes out trash and makes bed.
10
Sally
Nov 20, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Room very clean and comfortable, good view, quiet despite being next to a busy road. Staff all pleasant and helpful. Top quality complimentary teas and coffees. Lovely toiletries. Great breakfast. Would definitely stay again
Room very clean and comfortable, good view, quiet despite being next to a busy road. Staff all pleasant and helpful. Top quality complimentary teas and coffees. Lovely toiletries. Great breakfast. Would definitely stay again
10
Denise
Feb 28, 2024
·
Stayed 6 nights
Clean, cosy, welcoming and full of charm. The staff were friendly and helpful. My room had beautiful views of the river and meadow. I’d come back to Oxford just to stay here again.
Clean, cosy, welcoming and full of charm. The staff were friendly and helpful. My room had beautiful views of the river and meadow. I’d come back to Oxford just to stay here again.
8
Leanne
Nov 17, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
We had an overall good stay at The Head of the River. We were in walking distance to landmarks of interest and there was a lovely coffee shop across the street. The breakfast was included and was good and the staff were friendly. Overall cleanliness of the room was not up to our standards and the first evening we were there it was quite noisy. Would probably look into other options before returning.
We had an overall good stay at The Head of the River. We were in walking distance to landmarks of interest and there was a lovely coffee shop across the street. The breakfast was included and was good and the staff were friendly. Overall cleanliness of the room was not up to our standards and the first evening we were there it was quite noisy. Would probably look into other options before returning.
8
Nancy
Apr 16, 2023
·
Stayed 4 nights
Our stay was very pleasant. The place itself is fun and the breakfasts were excellent. Delicious plant cases options! We didn't realize we had to put a sign out for housekeeping and because the condensation was high from the shower, the towel never really dried out. Our room 12 was a little rough as the mirror had fallen down and wasn't removed or tge wall repaired. However, the view of the river was gorgeous and despite the fun pub downstairs, our room was very quiet. The staff was very friendly...
Our stay was very pleasant. The place itself is fun and the breakfasts were excellent. Delicious plant cases options! We didn't realize we had to put a sign out for housekeeping and because the condensation was high from the shower, the towel never really dried out. Our room 12 was a little rough as the mirror had fallen down and wasn't removed or tge wall repaired. However, the view of the river was gorgeous and despite the fun pub downstairs, our room was very quiet. The staff was very friendly...
4
Gulten
Feb 8, 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
Great location and scenery however very loud hotel and can hear others in their rooms easily. The room was not serviced for a while left in morning, back in afternoon and no toilet tissue or phone to ring downstairs. Not the typical hotel experience.
Great location and scenery however very loud hotel and can hear others in their rooms easily. The room was not serviced for a while left in morning, back in afternoon and no toilet tissue or phone to ring downstairs. Not the typical hotel experience.
10
Anna
Feb 27, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We loved our rooms, very clean, excellent facilities. Little extras with quality teas, coffees etc. Good service, comfortable beds and pillows. Will definitely stay again
We loved our rooms, very clean, excellent facilities. Little extras with quality teas, coffees etc. Good service, comfortable beds and pillows. Will definitely stay again
4
Lukas
May 8, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
The hotel was a disappointment. I would give one star, but because the excellent breakfast, I give two stars. Other than this, lazy and unhelpful staff (with one exception), dirty room, lack of services… I would avoid it next time.
The hotel was a disappointment. I would give one star, but because the excellent breakfast, I give two stars. Other than this, lazy and unhelpful staff (with one exception), dirty room, lack of services… I would avoid it next time.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms are cozy and comfortable with character, some offering river views and nice in-room extras like quality teas. A minority found rooms small and reported noise from the bar, traffic, or thin walls.
Related guest reviews
10
Kristen B.
Sep 2, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
10
Sally
Nov 20, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Room very clean and comfortable, good view, quiet despite being next to a busy road. Staff all pleasant and helpful. Top quality complimentary teas and coffees. Lovely toiletries. Great breakfast. Would definitely stay again
Room very clean and comfortable, good view, quiet despite being next to a busy road. Staff all pleasant and helpful. Top quality complimentary teas and coffees. Lovely toiletries. Great breakfast. Would definitely stay again
10
Juan
Jun 7, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Historic building, very well located. The room was cozy and with a beautifull view to the river
Historic building, very well located. The room was cozy and with a beautifull view to the river
6
Eric
Nov 2, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely view from our ridiculously tiny room-barely room to walk around the bed, no space for luggage or unpacked clothes, no desk or flat surface, tiny bathroom, extremely noisy-a very loud event underneath our window went on late into night and next night it was traffic on the street, very narrow flights of steps to reach our room. Required the white noise from the fan to sleep
Lovely view from our ridiculously tiny room-barely room to walk around the bed, no space for luggage or unpacked clothes, no desk or flat surface, tiny bathroom, extremely noisy-a very loud event underneath our window went on late into night and next night it was traffic on the street, very narrow flights of steps to reach our room. Required the white noise from the fan to sleep
10
Rebecka
Mar 6, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
We loved our stay! It was close to the major sights as well as the bus station and right by the river. Such cozy hotel and comfortable beds. We had a family room which was a good size and we enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee in the room. Nice pub and outdoor space.
We loved our stay! It was close to the major sights as well as the bus station and right by the river. Such cozy hotel and comfortable beds. We had a family room which was a good size and we enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee in the room. Nice pub and outdoor space.
10
Thomas
Aug 4, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
This a great spot, with super kind service across the board at a very fair price point. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, and it’s nice to have a pub within the hotel. We would happily go back.
This a great spot, with super kind service across the board at a very fair price point. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, and it’s nice to have a pub within the hotel. We would happily go back.
10
Wendy
Nov 25, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location. Walking distance from train. Room on top floor had great views of the river.
Great location. Walking distance from train. Room on top floor had great views of the river.
8
Katy
Jun 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely riverside pub with well decorated rooms. Bed was comfy and nice pillows. Good selection of complimentary tea and coffee and nice to have biscuits! A bit noisy if you have a bar side room but other than that a great stay.
Lovely riverside pub with well decorated rooms. Bed was comfy and nice pillows. Good selection of complimentary tea and coffee and nice to have biscuits! A bit noisy if you have a bar side room but other than that a great stay.
8
David
Sep 12, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
10
Anna
Feb 27, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We loved our rooms, very clean, excellent facilities. Little extras with quality teas, coffees etc. Good service, comfortable beds and pillows. Will definitely stay again
We loved our rooms, very clean, excellent facilities. Little extras with quality teas, coffees etc. Good service, comfortable beds and pillows. Will definitely stay again
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Service is widely praised as friendly, helpful and accommodating, and check-in was smooth for late arrivals. A few guests experienced booking errors or inconsistent housekeeping communication.
Related guest reviews
4
Sarah
Dec 11, 2022
·
Stayed 2 nights
They had our reservation logged for the wrong dates when we arrived. They tried to say this (their!) error was because we had not prepaid which would have moved the booking dates?! The room was very tired, grubby, damp, poorly decorated and clearly needs entirely redoing including a new bathroom which was not clean and poor standard. The room was nothing like the quality shown in pictures. We were constantly made to feel like errors were our fault eg not getting housekeeping done because we put our door sign out too late , and being presented with a WhatsApp photo of our door to prove they were right and we were wrong. The cold breakfast selection is good but the cooked plant based breakfast was not nice at all. No way worth the price in our opinion based on the customer service and quality of accommodation.
They had our reservation logged for the wrong dates when we arrived. They tried to say this (their!) error was because we had not prepaid which would have moved the booking dates?! The room was very tired, grubby, damp, poorly decorated and clearly needs entirely redoing including a new bathroom which was not clean and poor standard. The room was nothing like the quality shown in pictures. We were constantly made to feel like errors were our fault eg not getting housekeeping done because we put our door sign out too late , and being presented with a WhatsApp photo of our door to prove they were right and we were wrong. The cold breakfast selection is good but the cooked plant based breakfast was not nice at all. No way worth the price in our opinion based on the customer service and quality of accommodation.
8
Meena
Jul 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
This place is lovely and very cute! It was our first trip to Oxford and the location was really convenient to the town center. The outdoor bar and restaurant is very charming and popular. The service was excellent- very friendly and helpful staff. Overall, excellent location, property and service
This place is lovely and very cute! It was our first trip to Oxford and the location was really convenient to the town center. The outdoor bar and restaurant is very charming and popular. The service was excellent- very friendly and helpful staff. Overall, excellent location, property and service
10
Samrah
Jun 16, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Wonderful, laid back, clean, on-the-water pub with very charming rooms & great breakfast that was included in the room rate. Great dining menu, outdoor terrace always busy. Overall a very friendly & accommodating staff. Walkable to City Centre, Christ Church, Ashmolean, Botanical Gardens, groceries, train station, you name it! Loved it! Special thanks to Emms & the gentleman managing the guests on the outdoor terrace.
Wonderful, laid back, clean, on-the-water pub with very charming rooms & great breakfast that was included in the room rate. Great dining menu, outdoor terrace always busy. Overall a very friendly & accommodating staff. Walkable to City Centre, Christ Church, Ashmolean, Botanical Gardens, groceries, train station, you name it! Loved it! Special thanks to Emms & the gentleman managing the guests on the outdoor terrace.
10
Paul
Sep 28, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Friendly, helpful staff. Comfortable room. Excellent pub/restaurant. No lift.
Friendly, helpful staff. Comfortable room. Excellent pub/restaurant. No lift.
10
Larry
Sep 30, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Convenient location and walkable to town. Staff was friendly and helpful.
Convenient location and walkable to town. Staff was friendly and helpful.
10
Thomas
Aug 4, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
This a great spot, with super kind service across the board at a very fair price point. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, and it’s nice to have a pub within the hotel. We would happily go back.
This a great spot, with super kind service across the board at a very fair price point. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, and it’s nice to have a pub within the hotel. We would happily go back.
10
Daniel
Mar 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The staff were friendly and welcoming, the pub setting by the river is great and our room was perfectly appointed with comfy bed and pillows and premium teas & coffees. Breakfast was included and the offering was just what we like. We’ll definitely be back, a faultless stay.
The staff were friendly and welcoming, the pub setting by the river is great and our room was perfectly appointed with comfy bed and pillows and premium teas & coffees. Breakfast was included and the offering was just what we like. We’ll definitely be back, a faultless stay.
10
Lincoln
Aug 6, 2023
·
Stayed 5 nights
First class all the way! Amazing rooms! Great food, great service, fantastic location! We have come here in past years for food and pints but stayed this time. Great location for river walks, easy walks around town, easy cab pick ups. Big kudos to all the staff, you are fantastic and helped make us feel comfortable and safe with your professionalism and kindness! We will stay here again!!
First class all the way! Amazing rooms! Great food, great service, fantastic location! We have come here in past years for food and pints but stayed this time. Great location for river walks, easy walks around town, easy cab pick ups. Big kudos to all the staff, you are fantastic and helped make us feel comfortable and safe with your professionalism and kindness! We will stay here again!!
10
bryan
Jun 5, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
We booked our stay through hotels.com. Check in was easy even though we arrived at 11pm. The building is old so has a lot of character and some of the old sash windows require attention but secondary glazing made the room comfortable. The room was fully equipped with everything we needed so no complaints. The breakfast suited us but some may find the choice a little limited compared to a large hotel. The main English cooked breakfast was one of the largest ever received - make sure you’re hungry- compliments to the chef! It’s a short walk into the Center and also not far from the park and ride. Service was friendly so couldn’t complain about anything. Would stay again 👍
We booked our stay through hotels.com. Check in was easy even though we arrived at 11pm. The building is old so has a lot of character and some of the old sash windows require attention but secondary glazing made the room comfortable. The room was fully equipped with everything we needed so no complaints. The breakfast suited us but some may find the choice a little limited compared to a large hotel. The main English cooked breakfast was one of the largest ever received - make sure you’re hungry- compliments to the chef! It’s a short walk into the Center and also not far from the park and ride. Service was friendly so couldn’t complain about anything. Would stay again 👍
4
Lukas
May 8, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
The hotel was a disappointment. I would give one star, but because the excellent breakfast, I give two stars. Other than this, lazy and unhelpful staff (with one exception), dirty room, lack of services… I would avoid it next time.
The hotel was a disappointment. I would give one star, but because the excellent breakfast, I give two stars. Other than this, lazy and unhelpful staff (with one exception), dirty room, lack of services… I would avoid it next time.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Riverside location by the Thames is central and very walkable to Oxford sights, train and bus links. Many appreciate the scenic setting.
Related guest reviews
10
Robert
Aug 28, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Good location
Good location
10
Kristen B.
Sep 2, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
10
Rebecka
Mar 6, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
We loved our stay! It was close to the major sights as well as the bus station and right by the river. Such cozy hotel and comfortable beds. We had a family room which was a good size and we enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee in the room. Nice pub and outdoor space.
We loved our stay! It was close to the major sights as well as the bus station and right by the river. Such cozy hotel and comfortable beds. We had a family room which was a good size and we enjoyed the complementary tea and coffee in the room. Nice pub and outdoor space.
10
Larry
Sep 30, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Convenient location and walkable to town. Staff was friendly and helpful.
Convenient location and walkable to town. Staff was friendly and helpful.
10
Bhupinder
Dec 9, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
great hotel, friendly staff and ideal location
great hotel, friendly staff and ideal location
10
Wendy
Nov 25, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location. Walking distance from train. Room on top floor had great views of the river.
Great location. Walking distance from train. Room on top floor had great views of the river.
10
Robert
Aug 23, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location. On the River and very close to Oxford
Great location. On the River and very close to Oxford
10
Helen
Oct 31, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Love this property, everything you could ask for. Great food, lovely room with such character, great breakfast. Close to all the top spots in Oxford and close to the railway station and bus drop off from London.
Love this property, everything you could ask for. Great food, lovely room with such character, great breakfast. Close to all the top spots in Oxford and close to the railway station and bus drop off from London.
8
David
Sep 12, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
10
Scott
Mar 22, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great property in a great location - right on the Thames and a 5 minute walk to Oxford.
Great property in a great location - right on the Thames and a 5 minute walk to Oxford.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
Breakfast consistently earns high marks, and the on-site pub/restaurant is often enjoyed. Some guests found dinner options average or specific dishes underwhelming.
Related guest reviews
4
Sarah
Dec 11, 2022
·
Stayed 2 nights
They had our reservation logged for the wrong dates when we arrived. They tried to say this (their!) error was because we had not prepaid which would have moved the booking dates?! The room was very tired, grubby, damp, poorly decorated and clearly needs entirely redoing including a new bathroom which was not clean and poor standard. The room was nothing like the quality shown in pictures. We were constantly made to feel like errors were our fault eg not getting housekeeping done because we put our door sign out too late , and being presented with a WhatsApp photo of our door to prove they were right and we were wrong. The cold breakfast selection is good but the cooked plant based breakfast was not nice at all. No way worth the price in our opinion based on the customer service and quality of accommodation.
They had our reservation logged for the wrong dates when we arrived. They tried to say this (their!) error was because we had not prepaid which would have moved the booking dates?! The room was very tired, grubby, damp, poorly decorated and clearly needs entirely redoing including a new bathroom which was not clean and poor standard. The room was nothing like the quality shown in pictures. We were constantly made to feel like errors were our fault eg not getting housekeeping done because we put our door sign out too late , and being presented with a WhatsApp photo of our door to prove they were right and we were wrong. The cold breakfast selection is good but the cooked plant based breakfast was not nice at all. No way worth the price in our opinion based on the customer service and quality of accommodation.
10
Kelly
Nov 3, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
We enjoyed a 2-night stay at Head of the River. Fantastic location. Restaurant/pub on site was excellent—and the included breakfast was an added bonus. Staff was lovely! Beds were very comfortable and bed linens were high quality. Loved our stay and would absolutely stay again.
We enjoyed a 2-night stay at Head of the River. Fantastic location. Restaurant/pub on site was excellent—and the included breakfast was an added bonus. Staff was lovely! Beds were very comfortable and bed linens were high quality. Loved our stay and would absolutely stay again.
10
Donna
Aug 27, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
We were very impressed with the hotel. The bed was so comfortable and the shower was amazing! Breakfast was provided and it was delicious. We definitely would like to come back again. All staff members were friendly and welcoming and I would recommend this hotel to family and friends.
We were very impressed with the hotel. The bed was so comfortable and the shower was amazing! Breakfast was provided and it was delicious. We definitely would like to come back again. All staff members were friendly and welcoming and I would recommend this hotel to family and friends.
10
Kristen B.
Sep 2, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
8
Christina
Feb 9, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
this is a lovely place in a lovely location.you can walk to most places and the train station is only about .7 km away on an easy walk. Christ church is two blocks . the christ church meadow is behind the Inn and a lovely walk Located right on the thames so boat rides are available. the bed was very comfortable. breakfast is hearty but i'd avoid the eggs benedict. Staff lovely and helpful.
this is a lovely place in a lovely location.you can walk to most places and the train station is only about .7 km away on an easy walk. Christ church is two blocks . the christ church meadow is behind the Inn and a lovely walk Located right on the thames so boat rides are available. the bed was very comfortable. breakfast is hearty but i'd avoid the eggs benedict. Staff lovely and helpful.
10
Daniel
Mar 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The staff were friendly and welcoming, the pub setting by the river is great and our room was perfectly appointed with comfy bed and pillows and premium teas & coffees. Breakfast was included and the offering was just what we like. We’ll definitely be back, a faultless stay.
The staff were friendly and welcoming, the pub setting by the river is great and our room was perfectly appointed with comfy bed and pillows and premium teas & coffees. Breakfast was included and the offering was just what we like. We’ll definitely be back, a faultless stay.
10
Jamie
Jul 26, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Wonderful property. Beautiful location. Great reception. Great breakfast. Comfy rooms.
Wonderful property. Beautiful location. Great reception. Great breakfast. Comfy rooms.
8
David
Sep 12, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
Lovely hotel, great location, beautiful terrace by the river. The room was super cosy and comfortable. Breakfast was more than adequate with a buffet style continental and hot dishes made to order. The only area for improvement would be the food at dinner. The menu was a little dull and the food 3/5.
10
Lida
Feb 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very good food and the accommodation is great
Very good food and the accommodation is great
10
Mercedes
Mar 9, 2023
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Stayed 1 night
What an incredible find! I loved the quirkiness of this hotel along with it's great location. I had made a reservation for the wrong date, and they STILL honored the reservation. I was only here for one night but it was memorable. The pub had great food and beer. The room was quirky but with modern amenities, loved everything about this place and will definitely return. Staff were very, very helpful wish I had written this review the next day as I cannot remember their names .
What an incredible find! I loved the quirkiness of this hotel along with it's great location. I had made a reservation for the wrong date, and they STILL honored the reservation. I was only here for one night but it was memorable. The pub had great food and beer. The room was quirky but with modern amenities, loved everything about this place and will definitely return. Staff were very, very helpful wish I had written this review the next day as I cannot remember their names .
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
10
Niclas
Aug 3, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
G
G
8
Michelle
Jul 30, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Fabulous location right on the river, had a great dinner on the terrace overlooking the boats and breakfast in the morning had a full range at the buffet as well as cooked options, went for the full English which was excellent. All the staff were friendly and informative and made us feel welcome. Our room had everything we needed including air conditioning as it was very hot when we stayed. There were a couple of areas in our room with thick dust on, the bed headboard and skirting boards in particular, the dark colour scheme shows up the dust. Also there was an ironing board in a black bag propped up against the wall on the way to the bathroom which I clattered into in the middle of the night as the bedside light didn’t work. Overall a fabulous stay though.
Fabulous location right on the river, had a great dinner on the terrace overlooking the boats and breakfast in the morning had a full range at the buffet as well as cooked options, went for the full English which was excellent. All the staff were friendly and informative and made us feel welcome. Our room had everything we needed including air conditioning as it was very hot when we stayed. There were a couple of areas in our room with thick dust on, the bed headboard and skirting boards in particular, the dark colour scheme shows up the dust. Also there was an ironing board in a black bag propped up against the wall on the way to the bathroom which I clattered into in the middle of the night as the bedside light didn’t work. Overall a fabulous stay though.
10
Amalie
Jul 13, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
We loved it! Thank you so much!
We loved it! Thank you so much!
10
Amalie
Jul 12, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Amazing, will come back!
Amazing, will come back!
8
Antony
Jul 1, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Wonderful place and lovely location but our bed was under the window blind so didn't block out the early morning sunlight and the blind was already not fully working. Noise was an issue with early deliveries to the pub. The food was great and friendly staff.
Wonderful place and lovely location but our bed was under the window blind so didn't block out the early morning sunlight and the blind was already not fully working. Noise was an issue with early deliveries to the pub. The food was great and friendly staff.
Property Policies
Check-in
Check-out
From 15:00 to 22:00
Before 11:00
FAQs about Head of the River
What type of breakfast is offered and what are the serving hours?
An English breakfast is available for approximately GBP 11.5 per person. Specific serving hours are not mentioned.
What are the standard check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 15:00 to 22:00, and check-out is at 11:00. Early or late check-in/check-out options are not detailed.
What is the location of the property in relation to key landmarks?
The property is located in Oxford City Centre, near a train station and on the waterfront, with attractions like the Thames River and Waterperry Gardens nearby.
What are the policies for guests staying with children?
Children are allowed at the property, but specific age policies for free stays are not mentioned.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Prices for upcoming dates
September 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
October 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-09-04: NO DATA
- 2026-09-05: NO DATA
- 2026-09-06: 162.9845097076416USD
- 2026-09-07: 288.3402690368652USD
- 2026-09-08: 326.2445541931152USD
- 2026-09-09: 380.52550795898435USD
- 2026-09-10: 407.9293803527832USD
- 2026-09-11: NO DATA
- 2026-09-12: 424.91379205932617USD
- 2026-09-13: 372.2597836120605USD
- 2026-09-14: NO DATA
- 2026-09-15: NO DATA
- 2026-09-16: NO DATA
- 2026-09-17: NO DATA
- 2026-09-18: NO DATA
- 2026-09-19: 484.6768387878418USD
- 2026-09-20: 424.4270517578125USD
- 2026-09-21: 339.64818341064455USD
- 2026-09-22: 413.4325974121094USD
- 2026-09-23: 390.8957027160645USD
- 2026-09-24: 482.5179277526855USD
- 2026-09-25: NO DATA
- 2026-09-26: NO DATA
- 2026-09-27: 227.0532924041748USD
- 2026-09-28: 318.4402283203125USD
- 2026-09-29: 389.68450513916014USD
- 2026-09-30: 377.81045900268555USD
- 2026-10-01: 365.93641286621096USD
- 2026-10-02: 449.054700378418USD
- 2026-10-03: NO DATA
- 2026-10-04: 260.1494708770752USD
- 2026-10-05: 295.8039865722656USD
- 2026-10-06: 365.93641286621096USD
- 2026-10-07: 330.31427445678713USD
- 2026-10-08: 318.89361665039064USD
- 2026-10-09: 303.9270878234863USD
- 2026-10-10: NO DATA
- 2026-10-11: 295.77160928649903USD
- 2026-10-12: 294.6921537689209USD
- 2026-10-13: 294.6921537689209USD
- 2026-10-14: 301.2445047607422USD
- 2026-10-15: 294.6921537689209USD
- 2026-10-16: NO DATA
- 2026-10-17: NO DATA
- 2026-10-18: 282.9636016204834USD
- 2026-10-19: 259.07001535949706USD
- 2026-10-20: 319.47651412353514USD
- 2026-10-21: 259.07001535949706USD
- 2026-10-22: 317.99765014038087USD
- 2026-10-23: 339.05791376953124USD
- 2026-10-24: NO DATA
- 2026-10-25: 214.75687066345213USD
- 2026-10-26: 247.19596922302244USD
- 2026-10-27: 270.91168421020507USD
- 2026-10-28: 212.65332177429198USD
- 2026-10-29: 259.07001535949706USD
- 2026-10-30: 294.6921537689209USD
- 2026-10-31: NO DATA
- 2026-11-01: 259.07001535949706USD
- 2026-11-02: 205.52498471679687USD
- 2026-11-03: 264.72912896118163USD
- 2026-11-04: 282.82890006103514USD
Check-in must be done by someone who is at least 18 years old.
Popular amenities
Free Wi-Fi
Restaurant
Non-Smoking Rooms
Family Room
Garden
Express Check-In/Check-Out
General
Restaurant
Non-Smoking Rooms
Family Room
Services
Express Check-In/Check-Out
Activities
Garden
Outdoor Furniture
Terrace
Internet
Free Wi-Fi