River Hotel

17 Botley Rd, Oxford OX2 0AA

Rating: 4.3 ★ (165 ratings)

Details

River Hotel offers a charming, family-run experience, nestled conveniently on the banks of the River Thames and overlooking the tranquil Osney Island Conservation area. This traditional, independently run property provides a homely atmosphere, making it a welcoming retreat. Its enviable setting, with gardens leading directly down to the river, allows for peaceful views and stands out as a unique feature for guests. Positioned within easy walking distance of Oxford city centre and the main rail station, the hotel provides exceptional access to local attractions whilst benefiting from free on-site parking, a significant advantage in Oxford.

Each of the hotel's individually designed rooms features modern comforts such as a flat-screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee making facilities. Guests will find private bathrooms equipped with free toiletries and a hairdryer, with some rooms also offering delightful views of the garden or river. Dining is a highlight, with a traditional English breakfast served daily in the river-view restaurant, widely praised for its quality and variety, including options catering to vegetarian and other dietary needs. A residents' bar is also available for a relaxing evening drink.

The River Hotel particularly appeals to both leisure and business travellers seeking a comfortable base for exploring Oxford's renowned colleges, museums, and shops. Its riverside location is ideal for those wishing to enjoy scenic walks along the Thames Path. The warm welcome and personal, friendly service consistently receive high praise from guests, contributing to an overall inviting and pleasant stay. The combination of excellent location, highly-rated breakfast, and dedicated staff ensures a memorable visit for anyone experiencing this historic city.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Contact

+44 1865 243475 | https://www.riverhotel.co.uk/?goo=235831426&

Comments

Søren Svingel
19 Jul 2026
5.0 ★
A classic English hotel, slightly dated but charming rooms. Nice breakfast. Easy to reach by car, on site parking which is included in the room price. Worth noting compared to other hotels in Oxford. Location is great, close to railway station, city centre etc. The rooms are not airconditioned, but as "other hotels" we stayed in seemingly switched their AC off, there wasn't much difference in a 32°C summer. Well satisfied with our stay.
Maximilian Flagg
13 Jul 2026
4.0 ★
Nice hotel, just don't come during a heatwave!!!

It's hard to write a bad review because the only fault is that the rooms have no air conditioning and the building acts as a brick oven. We were provided with the weakest fan I've ever seen and no other way to cool our room down. I didn't sleep a wink. If I had come in the winter I would have had no complaints. The room would have been very cosy if it wasn't 30+ degrees in there all night long. On the second night I was more comfortable only because we borrowed a local friend's fan and put in the room.
Lisette Elby
26 Mar 2026
5.0 ★
Stayed for 2 nights on a trip to Oxford and was very comfortable. Has a homely sort of feel & cute decor which made a nice change from the usual chains like Travelodge which I'd tended to stay in previously. Staff really friendly, I was given a map of the city upon check in and was recommended an exhibition at the Bodleian which I did end up visiting and did very much enjoy! The hotel is small and located in a fairly quiet street, it has a lounge/breakfast room, plus a garden which I imagine is pleasant in summer - unfortunately I was there in January! Very close to Oxford train station and in good walking distance of the city centre. Some nice details like an honesty bar in the lounge, an ironing board available if needed, and a good choice of biscuits with the tea & coffee provided in the room! Overall really good value for money and a pleasant experience.
Saku Pradhan
25 Feb 2026
5.0 ★
We had a really good time at this hotel. The hotel is superb, clean and easy access to the tube station. The staffs are also really friendly and make you feel comfortable. The breakfast is so tasty. Will be definitely back again. 🤗
Halyna Miasoid
1 Oct 2025
5.0 ★
Excellent location near the train station and close to the city. Easy to go for walks and return. Stylish, old fashioned hotel gives a feeling of living in an old house. Limited number of rooms, hence few guests creates a quiet atmosphere. Breakfast is served in a nice hall, options on the menu.

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