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The Head of the River

4.0 star property

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Photo gallery for The Head of the River

Exterior
Comfy Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
Interior
A bedroom with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand with a lamp, a window with curtains, and a brick wall.

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Bar

Explore the area

View in a map
Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, England, OX1 4LB
  • Place, University of Oxford
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Christ Church College
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Oxford Castle
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Airport, Oxford (OXF)
    ‪22 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Comfy Room

A bedroom with a large bed, a wooden headboard, a nightstand with a lamp, a window with curtains, and a brick wall.

Comfy Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(15 reviews)
  • 151 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Indulgence Room

Indulgence Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Indulgence Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 172 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Cosy Room

Cosy Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Cosy Room

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(8 reviews)
  • 129 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Family Room

Family Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Family Room

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(5 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

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About the neighborhood

Oxford

Located in Oxford City Centre, The Head of the River is adjacent to Thames River and within a 5-minute walk of other popular sights like University of Oxford. This 19-room, 4-star inn has conveniences like a restaurant, a bar/lounge, and free in-room WiFi.
View more Inns in OxfordOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • University of Oxford - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Christ Church College - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Oxford Castle - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Bodleian Library - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • New Theatre Oxford - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

  • Oxford Station - 17 min walk
  • Heathrow Airport (LHR) - 63 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Place To Eat - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪JOE & THE JUICE - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Pret A Manger - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Curzon Oxford - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪The Old Tom - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Head of the River

Guests staying at The Head of the River enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a terrace, and a garden. Staff members can help with accommodation requests, and provide front-desk service during limited hours. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls.
Guests can expect free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Espresso makers, phones, and ironing boards are also available. Housekeeping is available on request.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • No onsite parking available

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • The Head of the River

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On a river
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Handrails in stairways (35 inches high)
  • Lever door handles
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Vibrating pillow alarm
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk (42 inches high)
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

More

  • 3 floors
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with digital channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Espresso maker
  • Free bottled water

More

  • Desk
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 8 AM - 9:30 PM

Front desk staffed during limited hours

If you are planning to arrive after 11:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for GBP 20 per pet, per stay
  • 2 total pets
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • Certain rooms only
  • Guests can request a pet-friendly room by contacting the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: GBP 20 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-10:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • No parking is available onsite.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Head River

Head River Inn

Head River Inn Oxford

Head River Oxford

Head Of The River Hotel Oxford

The Head of the River Inn

The Head of the River Oxford

The Head of the River Inn Oxford

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at The Head of the River?

The Head of the River provides free cancellation on some room rates. For more details, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at The Head of the River?

As of May 15, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Head of the River on May 31, 2026 start from $252, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see within easy reach of The Head of the River?

This inn is situated in Oxford City Centre, just steps from Thames River and Thames Path, and within a short walk of Oxford Town Hall. You'll also find Carfax Tower and Covered Market less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at The Head of the River?

No, there isn't parking at this inn.

Does The Head of the River include a casino on the premises?

No, The Head of the River doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Head of the River?

No, there is no indoor pool at this inn.

What do couples enjoy most about The Head of the River?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this riverfront inn include an espresso maker as well as a restaurant and a bar/lounge.

Are there hot tubs at The Head of the River?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this inn.

Does The Head of the River feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, The Head of the River doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will The Head of the River allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at The Head of the River for a fee of GBP 20 per pet, per stay. The property also provides food and water bowls.

Are there connecting rooms at The Head of the River?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this inn.

How close is the airport from The Head of the River?

The closest major airport to The Head of the River is Oxford (OXF), which is 8.8 mi away (14 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Head of the River?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at The Head of the River.

The Head of the River Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 382 out of 725 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 245 out of 725 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 56 out of 725 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 35 out of 725 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 7 out of 725 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Eileen

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyed it!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Rees

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Amanda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
What a great find in a beautiful setting. Staff were helpful and the food was good. Great location too. I would definitely recommend staying here if your visiting Oxford and we will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
We had a fabulous stay at Head of the river. We stayed in the hotel for food which was excellent value and great service. There was a selection of pastries, cereals and fruit for breakfast along with hot food which could be ordered. We stayed in a family room which was well appointed. Comfortable bed and a great hot shower. The only down side was the frosted glass door on the bathroom! It was a good job I was with very good friends as the door provided very little privacy! Please change it!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Dean

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Patrick

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
One night stay, and ended eating and drinking in the evening at the pub with 15% off the bill. The room was very clean and no problems. Overall I would definitely recommend staying and will in the future book a Fullers hotel again
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

CHARLOTTE

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved it
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

peter

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
My husband and I had a wonderful stay. Loved the river view and the breakfast. The room was clean and comfortable. The only thing that could improve was the mattress which felt old and sunken.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Felipe

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Exelent Staffs Room Restaurant and Bar
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice room, great location and at a competitive price. Staff were very friendly and the breakfast was good.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bhupinder

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
great hotel, friendly staff and ideal location
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jamie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyed our stay. Cute property close to everything.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alexandra

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely room and delicious breakfast
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Seyitnur

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

GILLIAN

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
First and foremost, the hotel has lovely staff. Very helpful and very pleasant. Our room ovetlooked the river and wasvery comfortable with robes, nice Bramley toiletries, a good bed, a nespresso coffee machine and stocked fridge.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Senem

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Candace

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved my stay here. Amazing location with riverfront views. Easily walkable to main attractions in Oxford. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Head of the River is the perfect spot for a trip to Oxford. Nestled next to the river, it’s a picture perfect taste of the old world wirh really lovely modern bathrooms
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lancy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very good
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Louise

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent location and staff. Highly recommended
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great room, lovely breakfast, fantastic location next to the river.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christina

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Good location
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025