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The Head of the River

Property class: 4

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Photo gallery for The Head of the River

A riverside restaurant with outdoor seating, a sign reading "The Head of the River," and a bridge connecting to another building.
Comfy Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, WiFi (free), bed sheets
A bar area with wooden furniture, hanging lights, and a bar counter.
A historic building with a waterfront view, featuring multiple levels with outdoor seating areas and a dock with boats.
A room with a wooden desk, a chair, a mirror, and a shelf with a box and a small plant.

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

Comfy Room | Desk, iron/ironing board, WiFi (free), bed sheets

Comfy Room

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

View all photos for Indulgence Room

A bedroom with a bed, bedside table, lamp, dresser, mirror, and window with a view.

Indulgence Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • 172 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Cosy Room

A bedroom with a bed, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a window.

Cosy Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(9 reviews)
  • 129 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Family Room

A bedroom with a bed, a wooden wall, a window with curtains, a table with a chair, and a hanging light fixture.

Family Room

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed
  • Free WiFi

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About the neighborhood

Oxford

Located in Oxford City Centre, The Head of the River is adjacent to River Thames 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
  • Carfax Tower - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Oxford Castle - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • New Theatre Oxford - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Black Sheep Coffee - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪JOE & THE JUICE - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Pret A Manger - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪The Breakfast Club - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪itsu - ‬9 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 Aug 29, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Head of the River on Sep 1, 2026 start from $207, 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 River Thames and Thames Path, and within a short walk of Oxford Town Hall. You'll also find Carfax Tower and Oxford Castle 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. 405 out of 756 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 251 out of 756 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 58 out of 756 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 35 out of 756 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 7 out of 756 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A fun, traditional, well-located hotel with a hopping bar and restaurant located right on the river (Thames or Isis, call it what you will) about 6-8 minutes by foot south of city center. Breakfast is included with the price of the room, and it's quite good. Not a fancy hotel by any means, this one does have a lot of charm.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Philippa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Gorgeous hotel , perfect location . Great breakfast and staff
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rachel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really excellent location for exploring Oxford and the room had everything we needed. Staff were very friendly and accommodating, and the breakfast was excellent with a range of hot options and continental. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Susanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
absolutely gorgeous hotel, the room was clean and well presented with a full coffee machine and kettle, the staff were lovely and welcoming and breakfast was really nice the location is beautiful too right on the river will definitely stay again
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Octavia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Perfect place to stay for a night in Oxford
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bhupinder

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

10/10 Excellent

Arthur

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is a wonderful, quaint, little hotel. The hallways and stair cases are tiny, but the rooms are plenty spacious. I don't think there's a lift so be mindful if you have large luggage. The food in the restaurant for breakfast and dinner was amazing. I would definitely stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Suyash

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good English breakfast
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Philip

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is now my hotel of choice for stays in Oxford. Attractive, compact room with all relevant amenities, a really comfortable bed, and attractive views of the river. Breakfast was excellent. Service by the staff was also first rate.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Leon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great hotel. Lovely room and decor and covered all the small things. Friendly staff. Amazing breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amzing stay! Everything you want at proper B&B. Cozy, comfortable rooms, great food and lovely atmosphere. Situated next to the river with a short walk to the Centre, it’s perfect for enjoying Oxford. Will definitely come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Fiona

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Easy walking distance to town
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified review

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Felipe

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

10/10 Excellent

Jamie

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

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alexandra

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

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Dorian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Charming and lovely hotel with delicious breakfast. Perfect location for walkability to city center and all sites in Oxford, and the indoor and outdoor pub/restaurant areas are very sweet. The "Family Rooms" vary, with some being too small for a family of 3 so ask about which room you will get, especially if your third person is an adult child. We would stay here again!
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Christopher

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was nice, good amenities. Shame it was so loud in the room next door and in corridors which meant we did not sleep very well. Nice breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Eileen

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Enjoyed it!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lida

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very good food and the accommodation is great
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Steve

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
All good
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hua

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything is wonderful. The only issue is the room is so tiny even we live in the family room. It is so hard to move around. Staff are very nice and helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Edward

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026