Oxford: River Cruise and 6-Course Tasting at The Folly

Oxford offers a truly unique experience that blends its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Set out on a picturesque river cruise, sipping champagne as you admire the city’s iconic landmarks. Afterward, indulge in a 6-course tasting menu at The Folly, where the chef showcases their culinary expertise with fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors. With the option to enhance the dining experience through a carefully curated wine pairing, this Oxford adventure promises to delight the senses and leave you longing for more.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Oxford.

Key Points

• A 40-minute river cruise along Oxford’s picturesque waterways, showcasing iconic landmarks like Folly Bridge and Christchurch Meadows.
• Guests are greeted with a complimentary glass of Champagne, setting the mood for the journey.
• The cruise is followed by a 6-course tasting menu at The Folly, featuring fresh seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors.
• Diners can opt for a carefully curated 6-course wine pairing to enhance the dining experience.
• The experience offers a unique perspective on Oxford’s rich history and college life.

You can check if your dates are available here:

River Cruise Overview

The river cruise offers a 40-minute journey along the picturesque waterways of Oxford, providing guests with stunning views of Folly Bridge, Christchurch Meadows, and the university boat houses.

As guests embark on this tranquil cruise, they’ll be greeted with a complimentary glass of Champagne, adding an extra touch of elegance to the experience.

The cruise showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and offers a unique perspective of Oxford’s rich history and college life.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this river cruise promises to be a memorable and relaxing way to explore the heart of the city.

Picturesque Sights Along the Way

As the river cruise glides along the calm waters, passengers are treated to a scenic panorama of Oxford’s architectural wonders and natural beauty. The iconic Folly Bridge, with its distinctive arches, dominates the horizon, while the lush Christchurch Meadows offer a verdant backdrop to the journey. Ahead, the stately university boathouses, home to generations of competitive rowers, line the riverbanks, providing a glimpse into the city’s rich sporting heritage.

Sight	Description
Folly Bridge	Distinctive arched bridge
Christchurch Meadows	Lush, verdant open space
University Boathouses	Historic homes of competitive rowers

The tranquil river cruise provides a unique vantage point to admire the city’s architectural gems and natural splendor, setting the stage for the culinary experience to come.

Champagne Celebration on the Water

As the river cruise sets off, passengers are delighted with a complimentary glass of refreshing Champagne to toast the start of their culinary adventure. The sparkling wine sets the mood for the leisurely 40-minute journey along the River Thames.

Guests soak in the picturesque views of Folly Bridge, Christchurch Meadows, and the iconic university boat houses while sipping the crisp, effervescent beverage. The Champagne adds an extra touch of sophistication to the experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tranquil and elegant atmosphere of the river.

This celebratory start to the tour perfectly sets the stage for the upcoming 6-course tasting menu at the renowned The Folly restaurant.

Exquisite Tasting Menu at The Folly

Guests indulge in a sumptuous 6-course tasting menu at the renowned The Folly restaurant, savoring each delectable dish that showcases the chef’s culinary expertise.

The meal begins with an amuse-bouche that tantalizes the palate, setting the stage for the culinary journey ahead.

Each course is expertly prepared and presented, highlighting the freshest seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors. From the delicate seafood dishes to the rich, decadent desserts, the tasting menu offers a truly exquisite dining experience.

Diners can opt to enhance their meal with a carefully curated 6-course wine pairing, expertly selected to complement the flavors of the food.

The Folly’s commitment to excellence ensures that every bite is a delightful discovery.

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Wine Pairing Option

Diners can choose to elevate their 6-course tasting experience by adding a carefully curated 6-course wine pairing for an additional £39 per person.

The wine selection has been expertly chosen to complement the flavours and textures of each course, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The wine pairing is an optional add-on, allowing guests to customize their dining experience to suit their preferences and budget.

Sommelier-selected wines that perfectly balance the complex flavours of the tasting menu.

The opportunity to discover new and interesting varietals that you may not have tried before.

A chance to learn more about wine pairings and how they can transform a meal.

Accessibility and Age Restrictions

The boat is not wheelchair accessible, but the staff will make efforts to accommodate passengers with limited mobility. Participants must be over 18 years of age to receive a complimentary glass of Champagne, with a soft drink alternative available for those underage.

Accessibility	Age Restrictions
Boat not wheelchair accessible	Participants must be over 18 to receive Champagne
Efforts made to accommodate limited mobility	Soft drink alternative available for underage
Accessibility assistance available upon request	Minimum age requirement strictly enforced

Additional items such as drinks, side orders, and service charge are not included in the tour price and must be paid separately at The Folly.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Aside from the included river cruise and 6-course tasting menu, diners at The Folly can expect to pay extra for additional beverages, side orders, and the mandatory service charge.

The menu’s wine pairing option, for example, will add £39 per person to the overall cost.

Additional drinks, such as cocktails or specialty coffees, will also be charged separately.

Any side dishes or extra courses ordered beyond the tasting menu will incur additional fees.

Enjoy a Unique Oxford Experience

Guests embarking on this unique Oxford experience can expect to be swept away on a scenic 40-minute river cruise, sipping a complimentary glass of Champagne as they take in views of Folly Bridge, Christchurch Meadows, and the iconic university boat houses. Following the cruise, they’ll indulge in a 6-course tasting menu at The Folly restaurant, with the option to pair each course with a specially selected wine.

River Cruise	Tasting Menu
40-minute journey	6 courses
Views of landmarks	Served inside or on river terrace
Complimentary Champagne	Optional wine pairing

This immersive experience offers a delightful blend of sightseeing and fine dining, providing guests with an unforgettable taste of Oxford’s rich history and culinary excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

No, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise package includes a complimentary glass of Champagne, and any additional food or drinks must be purchased from the restaurant during the dining experience.

Is Gratuity Included in the Total Cost?

No, gratuity is not included in the total cost. Any additional items such as drinks, side orders, and service charge must be paid separately at The Folly restaurant.

Can I Book a Private Cruise for a Special Occasion?

Yes, guests can book a private cruise for a special occasion. The tour operator offers private cruises along the river with customizable options to enhance the experience, such as adding a private dining experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, The Folly offers discounts for group bookings. Groups of 6 or more can receive a 10% discount on the river cruise and dining experience. Special packages may also be available for larger groups.

How Flexible Is the Menu for Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

The Folly offers flexibility for dietary restrictions and preferences. They accommodate most requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with advance notice. Guests should contact the restaurant to discuss their needs when booking.

Recap

Enjoy Oxford’s timeless charm with this river cruise and tasting menu experience.

Soak up the city’s iconic sights, enjoy a glass of champagne, and indulge in a gourmet 6-course menu that showcases the chef’s culinary prowess.

For the ultimate pairing, opt for the carefully curated wine selection to elevate your dining experience.

This unique package offers a delightful way to discover the best of Oxford.

You can check if your dates are available here: