Private | Oxford University Colleges Guided Punting Tour
Overview
Available languages
30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Nothing captures the charm of England quite like a peaceful punt gliding along the calm waters of a river, surrounded by nature, meadows, and striking historic buildings. This 30-minute punting tour on the River Cherwell departs from the boathouse and passes some of Oxford’s most scenic spots, including the Botanic Gardens, Magdalen College School fields, Christ Church Meadows, and the gardens of St Hilda’s College — offering a chance to experience some of the most idyllic corners of Oxford.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchairs and strollers can be left at the punting station and retrieved at the end of the tour.
In autumn and winter, Oxford’s rivers can experience high or low water levels. Tours may be cancelled in such cases, with a refund or alternative option provided. These conditions are beyond our control.
What To Expect
Make your own way to Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, where a manager will meet you and direct you to the departure point for your punting tour!
River Cherwell
See sites of famous literary inspiration as you glide along the River Cherwell with your guide.
Options
Punting up to 8 pax
Duration: 30 minutes
Punting Up to 4 Pax
Duration: 30 minutes
What‘s Included
An explanation of famous Oxford history
Chauffeured Punting Tour
Gratuities
Refreshments
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
38 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Morgan was great!
sophiesM8604PG,May 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Morgan was a great guide. He knew a lot of facts. He was happy to answer any and all questions that we had and we would 100% go again.
Fun on the water
514nikit,May 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was fun, particularly watching those that hadn't hired a guide to punt for them. Nick our guide made it a very relaxing experience with some entertainment thrown in by way of some interesting facts that he used to quiz us.
The punting was good,...
Rachel S,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The punting was good, very relaxing and enjoyable scenery. One thing that could be improved is the ‘guided’ part. The workers were all very young, which is great, I appreciate young people wanting to work and earn money. However there was very little local knowledge and we would have really appreciated hearing a bit more information about Oxford on our trip. Especially as it was sold to us as a guided private tour. There were a few instances where we asked questions or for recommendations and the answer was ‘there’s really not a lot to do around here’. Maybe the workers could be given a little bit of information and facts to read up on so they are prepared to answer questions or give information rather than just a relatively silent 30 minute punt.
Lovely setting and boat, but very little info from our guide.
Oliver C,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00Nice boat and setting, but we were expecting some history from the guide, and we got very little of that.
A delightful experience...
William H,Sep 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A delightful experience with a very knowledgeable tender with good historyin the business. Friendly staff all around.
Alfie - thank you
suvenk31,Sep 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alfie was our captain. He was kind and warm to interact with. He gave us a brief history of the tour and the place. He also drove past some ducks which made my daughter very happy.
Nice “guy”…Very poor “guide”
Patricia S,Aug 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
2.00The man who was presented as an “expert guide” had very little studied knowledge of Orkney and Kirkwell. He did not speak of anything historic or seem to have many facts of interest. This was a private tour yet he arrived to say we had to come back to the pier in a few hours to pick up a second couple. However, his vehicle was very small so he proceeded to drive us back to HIS HOME to trade out his car for a van!! Why didn’t he have this vehicle in the beginning? Why was he given or why did he elect to take the second couple at the disadvantage of us as customers? We watched other private and group guides during the day and were greatly disappointed that our guide was woefully incompetent in this regard. He was a very sweet, kind and courteous “guy” but he should not be sent out as an expert “guide”! We had to buy guides, and sneak closer to other guides and groups to get a better understanding of each stop. We used Wikipedia and Google Scan because our guide simply did not seem to know the types of historical facts we had hoped to learn. This was an expensive tour and a shameful waste of money! This poor man was probably thinking he could get by with his limited knowledge except we were painfully aware from the first moment we sat in his vehicle!
Dirty old boats.
ronaldtF2880KK,Aug 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Very disappointed. The boat was old , dirty , the cushions were tatty and dirty. The punter did not engage. Compare this to Cambridge punting who have new comfortable and are much more welcoming . A real shame ..
Total Value for Money!
Saina V,Jul 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a lovely and peaceful experience! It’s a must-do activity in Oxford to take in the sights and nature. Our guide, Enzo, was kind, friendly and knowledgable. Would do this activity again!
Exploring nature
C1497MMjamesT,Jul 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Super good fun, lovely views and really gentle pace. SHoutout to our guid james who was lovely. Was lovely to get out doors and be in nature - brilliant way to explore.
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Operated by Oxford Alumni Tours