Cherwell Boathouse

The Cherwell Boathouse and restaurant are located by the river on the outskirts of Oxford. They are a family-friendly venue that offers dining on the riverside and punts for hire.

Punting is a quintessential, timeless and slightly eccentric activity famous in the city of Oxford. From the Cherwell Boathouse, you can take a leisurely punt upstream and travel about half an hour from them. You can punt through beautiful rural countryside or downstream through the picturesque University Parks

Their punts are suitable for all and no experience is necessary. They have around 80 boats available with busier times being at the weekends so it is advised to arrive early. You don’t need to commit to a length of time either as you leave a deposit on arrival and they make a note of the time you leave. On your return, they then calculate how long you’ve been out and charge accordingly. They charge a minimum of 1 hour and it’s charged as a day rate if you are longer than 5 hours.

Depending on availability you can also hire a punt with one of their ‘chauffeurs’. They act as tour guides, it is worth noting that it isn’t difficult to punt and if you need a little instruction they will provide it free of charge. Punts seat up to 6 people and dogs are welcome.