The Head of the River
The Head of the River is a Fuller's pub with rooms at Folly Bridge, in a converted warehouse on the Thames. It has a large riverside terrace, 20 bedrooms and an old wharf crane outside, and it is the only pub in central Oxford right on the river, a few minutes' walk from Christ Church.
Photos
The Head of the River, Oxford
A pub on the river
The building began life as a riverside warehouse and still keeps a crane from its wharf days. The name, chosen in an Oxford Mail competition, refers to the finishing post of the Eights bumping races. Boats and punts can be hired from Salter's Steamers opposite, and short river cruises leave from their pier.
Eating, drinking and staying
Fuller's London Pride and ESB are the regular cask ales, with a changing guest. Food runs from breakfast through lunch and dinner. Inside, the pub is fairly compact and arranged over two levels, and it was refurbished in 2024. There are 20 rooms upstairs if you want to wake up by the water. Food is served from noon until 9pm, or 8pm on Sundays, and there is sports TV and wifi inside. Because the pub sits right on the Thames at Folly Bridge, the terrace looks straight onto the river traffic and the boat hire opposite.
When to go
On a sunny afternoon the terrace is the obvious pull, so arrive early for a table. It pairs well with a walk through Christ Church Meadow or a punt trip, and families and dogs are welcome. Prices reflect the setting.
Highlights
- Only central Oxford pub on the river
- Large riverside terrace
- 20 letting rooms
- Fuller's cask ales
- Opposite Salter's boat hire
Good to know
- Breakfast served from 7am weekdays, 8am weekends.
- Family and dog friendly.
- Terrace fills fast on sunny days.
Frequently asked questions
Sources: camra.org.uk