Head of the River

British, Pubs, Vegan·
££££
·

SquareMeal Review of Head of the River

Almost impossible to pass on a hot summer’s day without stopping for a drink, Head of the River’s big draw is, unsurprisingly, its waterside location at the edge of Folly Bridge – just a few minutes’ walk from Oxford city centre. This is a Fuller’s pub, so draught beer is a strong suit (expect Discovery and ESB alongside the ever-present London Pride), but they mix a mean Pimm’s too. Lager and wine are also well represented, and the menu’s familiar options of sausage and mash, steak and Pride pie, Thai curries or fish and chips will certainly fill a hole. On the downside, some find high prices difficult to swallow, and fine weather brings a scrum as revellers cram into every available inch of the pub’s outdoor space.

Read more +

Good to know

Average Price
££££ - Under £30
Cuisines
British, Pubs, Vegan
Ambience
Cool, Fun, Lively
Food Occasions
Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner, Lunch, Sunday roast
Alfresco And Views
Beer garden, Great views, Outside seating, Terrace, Waterside
Special Features
Dog friendly, Gluten-free options, Vegan options, Vegetarian options, Wheelchair access
Perfect for
Birthdays, Celebrations, Child friendly, Dates, Group dining [8+], Romantic, Special occasions
Food Hygiene Rating

About

Perched beside the River Thames at Folly Bridge, The Head of the River is one of Oxford’s most scenic spots to eat, drink and stay. Surrounded by the historic beauty of the city, and just a short stroll from Christ Church, the Botanical Gardens and the buzzing city centre, this traditional pub-with-rooms feels worlds away from the tourist crowds – though it’s only a stone’s throw from the action.

Set in a converted 19th-century warehouse, The Head of the River blends heritage charm with contemporary comfort. Inside, you’ll find cosy corners, exposed beams, and a buzzing bar stocked with Fuller’s cask ales, craft beer and an extensive gin and whisky selection. Outside, the riverside garden is a prime spot for people-watching over a pint or two, especially when the sun is shining and the rowers are out.

The menu is as tempting as the setting. British pub classics sit alongside creative seasonal specials, with hearty Sunday roasts and comforting puddings like rhubarb, orange and ginger crumble and warm chocolate brownie with peanut brittle. Whether it’s a relaxed lunch or a slap-up dinner, expect flavour-packed dishes like courgette and crab linguine or half roast Norfolk chicken with garlic and orange, house chips and slaw.

Upstairs, 20 boutique bedrooms offer a peaceful place to rest your head after a day exploring Oxford. Each one is individually designed with stylish furnishings, plush bedding, and modern touches. Choose from Cosy, Comfy or Indulgence rooms, all of which include breakfast and super-fast WiFi. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or an extended city break, it’s an idyllic base with a pub downstairs and the River Isis (as the Thames is known here) outside your window.

A slice of Oxford’s history with bags of atmosphere, The Head of the River is a characterful choice for anyone looking to soak up the city’s charm – and maybe a pint of London Pride too.

Read more +

FAQs

Is private dining available?

Yes

Helpful? 0

This venue also offers

Head of the River
Private Group Dining

Head of the River

Head of the River
Event Party Venue

Head of the River

Location

Folly Bridge, St. Aldates, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 4LB

01865 721600 01865 721600

Website

Opening Times

All day
Mon 07:00-23:00
Tue 07:00-23:00
Wed 07:00-23:00
Thu 07:00-23:00
Fri 08:00-23:30
Sat 08:00-23:30
Sun 08:00-22:00

Reviews

Share your thoughts with other diners

Write a review

Book a table

Call Head of the River to make a booking on:

01865 721600 01865 721600

Visit their website

Sorry, you cannot spend SquareMeal vouchers here yet.

Other restaurants we like near Head of the River

Head of the River
Close