Things To Do

Cherwell Boathouse

Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6ST, GB

Rating: 4.5 ★ (1609 ratings)

Details

Tucked away at the end of Bardwell Road since 1904, the Cherwell Boathouse offers an understated yet upscale European dining experience right on the river. With a creative, seasonal menu crafted by Head Chef Paul Bell, who brings global culinary expertise, you can expect dishes prepared with the finest, locally sourced ingredients. Renowned for its exceptional wine list, carefully curated with both famous producers and rare older vintages, it's a haven for wine lovers seeking outstanding value. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or looking for a memorable meal, the friendly staff and lovely atmosphere make it a reliable choice. Enjoy the views and the "quintessentially Oxford" pleasure of watching punts glide by.

Beyond the restaurant, Cherwell Boathouse is an Oxford institution, famed for its punt station featuring around 80 traditional wooden, handmade boats, all built onsite. Punting here is described as a "truly timeless, slightly eccentric, idyllic pleasure". You can hire a punt, rowing boat, or Canadian canoe and leisurely explore the River Cherwell. Paddle upstream towards the Victoria Arms pub and through beautiful rural countryside, or head downstream through the University Parks, perfect for a picnic. This iconic spot, run by the Verdin family for over 50 years, provides a unique Oxford experience, combining fine dining with the simple joy of being on the water.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 – 2:15 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 – 2:45 PM, 6:00 – 9:15 PM; Saturday: 12:00 – 2:45 PM, 6:00 – 9:15 PM; Sunday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 6:00 – 8:45 PM

Contact

+44 1865 552746

Comments

Ronn Smith
20 Mar 2026
5.0 ★
Nice place for our Sunday evening anniversary celebration
Letícia Ventura
16 Mar 2026
4.0 ★
I had quite expectations of visiting this place. They park space is tiny and was full (weekday dinner), had to look for a space outside to park which had restrictions of the amount of hours to park. The place is nice, with good view and option for panting. The main dishes are small, I ordered the lamb option, very tasty. The best dish for me was the Waterloo cheese ordered, well presented and tasty. Coffee was not the highlight, none of us were happy with the coffee after the dessert, opportunity to improve here.
Myrna Rickards
12 Mar 2026
5.0 ★
We had a fantastic anniversary meal here last week. The food was delicious and the staff were lovely. The tempura prawns starter and the Coley dish were outstanding. Our table was outside right by the river which was so special. The atmosphere was great. Highly recommend!
Mark Girling
8 Mar 2026
5.0 ★
Several months ago I organised to eat at this venue - we were 34 in total. The pre-order was online (great idea) this mean no confusion on the day. Service was excellent, even had some great Christmas decorations up. Food was great - no mean feat with so many covers at the same time. Would return.
Lucy Davenport
20 Jan 2026
5.0 ★
An incredible setting to host an event!
I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at Cherwell Boathouse this season and it was beautiful. A waterside setting, with the bride and groom punting in for their arrival, a fabulous wedding breakfast in the marquee followed by an epic party in the lower boathouse.
Highly recommend this venue for any private or corporate events.

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