River Hotel Oxford Exterior photoRiver Hotel Oxford Exterior photoRiver Hotel Oxford Exterior photo
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From207US$ /night
Check-in
22Jun2026Select date
Check-out
23Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

17 Botley Road, Oxford, United Kingdom
-
Less than a five minute walk to the city center
Great
8.4
8.5
/10
4.4
4.4
/5

3-star riverside hotel near Oxford City Centre

Location

The River Hotel is located just a 10-minute walk from Oxford city centre. It sits along the banks of the River Thames, providing quick access to the Thames Path Trail. Nearby attractions include the Said Business School, which is only 100 meters away, and Westgate Shopping Centre, within easy walking distance.

Parking

The hotel offers ample free on-site car parking, secured with CCTV surveillance for guest safety. Guests can leave their vehicles parked while exploring the city on foot. This unique amenity alleviates parking concerns common in Oxford.

Dining

Breakfast is served in the River Restaurant, which overlooks the garden and the River Thames. The meal includes a cold buffet complemented by freshly cooked items made to order. Careful attention is given to the quality of ingredients and service.

Rooms

The hotel consists of 20 individually decorated rooms, each equipped with en-suite bathrooms. Many rooms offer views of the River Thames, allowing guests to enjoy scenic landscapes during their stay. Recent renovations ensure that all accommodations meet modern guest standards.

Business Amenities

A meeting room is available for small seminars and meetings, accommodating various business needs. The reception staff offers local maps, guidebooks, and brochures to aid guest orientation in the area. The proximity to business venues along the River Thames enhances convenience for corporate travelers.

Highlights

Location: 10-minute walk from Oxford city centre

Parking: Ample on-site car parking, CCTV surveillance

Dining: Breakfast served in the River Restaurant

Rooms: 20 individually decorated rooms with en-suite bathrooms

Business: Meeting room available for small seminars

“In my opinion, its proximity to both the train station and central Oxford makes this hotel a practical choice. While some aspects may feel a bit timeworn, the staff's helpfulness shines. If a convenient location and warm service are priorities, it's worth considering.”
Hotel logo
Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Single Room Private Bathroom Non En-suite
2 persons
100 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Double Room Private Bathroom Non En-suite
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Single Room Ensuite Bathroom
2 persons
100 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
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Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Very good
7.9/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Concierge desk
  • No pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Tennis court

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

River Hotel features a delightful dining option that showcases the heartwarming flavors of British cuisine. Ideal for guests seeking a hearty start to their day, the establishment is characterized by its welcoming atmosphere and accessibility to the city's vibrant center.
River Hotel Oxford Restaurant photo
River Hotel Oxford Restaurant photo
River Hotel Oxford Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British
Ambiance
Cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxed breakfast experience.
Key Offerings
Indulge in a well-cooked and beautifully presented English breakfast, with options available for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free preferences.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open for breakfast; hours vary.

River Hotel Location

17 Botley Road, Oxford, United Kingdom
Map view
17 Botley Road, Oxford, United Kingdom
Nearby
University
Worcester College
1800 ft
Restaurants
Tumbling Bay Cafe
1100 ft
Botley Road West Oxford Community Centre
Platform 5 Oxford
1400 ft
Park End Street
Yellow Submarine
1600 ft
12 Park End Street
Fish4Lunch
3100 ft
Ferry Mills Osney Mead Unit 7
The Four Candles
2500 ft
51-53 George Street
The White Rabbit
3000 ft
21 Friars Entry
The Swan & Castle
3000 ft
Castle Street
Shawa
2800 ft
Queens Street Westgate Mall
Explore Oxford
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Oxford Castle
13 minutes' walk
Historic site featuring a medieval castle, guided tours, and beautiful views of the city from the top.
The Covered Market Oxford
13 minutes' walk
A bustling market with local produce, artisan goods, and unique food stalls, perfect for a casual stroll.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
19 minutes' walk
Magnificent collection of natural history exhibits, including dinosaurs, with free admission and family-friendly activities.
Pitt Rivers Museum
19 minutes' walk
Unique anthropological and archaeological collections, known for its eclectic displays and interactive exhibits.
Biking along the Oxford Canal
10 minutes' drive
Scenic biking routes along the canal with rental services available nearby for an outdoor adventure.
Yoga Classes at The Yoga House
12 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga sessions in a serene environment, suitable for all levels, with drop-in classes available.
Charter a Boat on the River Thames
15 minutes' drive
Thrilling opportunity for water sports; rentals available for a unique way to experience the Thames.
Tumbling Bay Cafe
4 minutes' walk
Charming cafe with a focus on local ingredients, offering delightful breakfast and brunch options.
Platform 5 Oxford
5 minutes' walk
Modern eatery known for its comforting dishes and artisanal coffee, perfect for casual dining.
Fish4Lunch
12 minutes' walk
Casual seafood spot specializing in fresh fish and chips, great for a quick meal with friends.
Sheldonian Theatre
13 minutes' walk
Stunning venue hosting concerts and lectures, recognized for its architectural beauty and acoustics.
The Jericho Tavern
15 minutes' walk
Live music venue with a vibrant atmosphere, known for its local acts and comedy nights.
Odeon Cinema
10 minutes' drive
Popular cinema showcasing the latest movies, perfect for family outings or solo relaxations.
Getting around town
City Centre
Oxford12 min  ·  3300 ft
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO)108 min  ·  44.7 mi
London Heathrow (LHR)125 min  ·  51.5 mi
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-21:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Paid Private parking is possible on site.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
The hotel River provides visitors with a free full breakfast. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
German, Italian
Number of rooms:
16

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The River Hotel is often praised for its convenient location near Oxford's city center, making it easy to reach attractions and the rail station. Guests frequently enjoy the delicious and plentiful breakfast served in the lovely dining room, sometimes with a view of the Thames. The spacious rooms and bathrooms are commonly appreciated, and some found the mid-century modern decor quirky and cool. While a few guests have noted that some aspects of the rooms could use updating, many find the experience offers good value.
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Review score
Based on 382 verified reviews
8.1/10
Great
85%
Recommend
Staff
9.5/10
Location
9.3/10
Facilities
7.9/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Excellent breakfast
Ideal location
Cons
Dated decor
Small room
Guest reviews
based on 382 reviews
8.1/10
based on 772 reviews
8.4/10
Jessica from Australia
Single
Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 10, 2026
9/10

Comfortable Stay Near the Centre

convenient locationsecure parkingbright dining roomfresh flowers
The location offered convenient access to the rail station. The parking at the rear of the hotel provided security. The dining room was bright with well-spaced tables. The fresh flowers added a nice touch.
The room lacked a refrigerator.
Facilities
9/10
Breakfast includes cereals, fresh fruits, juices, tea and coffee. A menu offers additional choices and a cooked breakfast. Toast and preserves are also available with breakfast service. This service is quite attentive.
0 Helpful
|
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Benjamin from United States
Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 15, 2026
9/10
wide arrayfree parking
i stayed in a standard double room ensuite bathroom it was clean. the breakfast included a wide array of choices and i appreciated it. the parking on site was free i found it convenient.
the television in the room was very tiny
0 Helpful
David from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 24, 2025
6/10
satisfactory breakfastabsent heatingloose handle
The breakfast provided was a satisfactory start to the day.
The bathroom lacked any heating, resulting in a very cold experience after showering. The handle on the inside of the bathroom door was also loose, requiring extra care when closing the door.
0 Helpful
Oscar from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Single Room Ensuite Bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 15, 2025
6/10
central locationsmall roomuncomfortable bedold bathroom
the location was acceptable, near the main attractions.
the room was small. the bed was not comfortable. the bathroom was old and needed maintenance.
0 Helpful
Naomi L from Canada
Single
standard double room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 01, 2025
8.5/10

fantastic stay near the city!

breakfast varietytrain stationcomfortable bedoutdated decor
the breakfast included was a treat. (i especially loved the variety of fresh fruit!). the hotel's proximity to the main train station was convenient, and the city center was within easy walking distance. the bed was also very comfortable, a real plus after a long day of exploring.
the room decor seemed a bit outdated, needing a refresh to match the otherwise lovely experience.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel features car parking, quite useful if you are travelling by car. coffee making facilities are available, great for a quick refreshment. the lounge area is a relaxing space to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Rooms
8/10
the room included one bath towel and one hand towel, providing essential comfort. the shower worked well, offering a refreshing experience. the bed was comfy, which ensured a solid night's sleep for me (i value good rest).
0 Helpful
|
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Daniel from United Kingdom
Single
standard double room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 04, 2025
7/10
delicious breakfastquaint dining roomhigh pricebudget place
the location was great it was easy to find and park i also enjoyed the delicious breakfast i ate in the quaint dining room
the price was high for the facilities and room the room was what i would expect in a budget place
0 Helpful
FAQs
About River Hotel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at River Hotel?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at River Hotel?
Free private parking is available on-site without reservation.
What are the nearby attractions from River Hotel?
The hotel is less than 1 km from Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology and 2 km from University of Oxford.
How far is River Hotel from London Heathrow Airport?
The hotel is located 81 km from London Heathrow Airport.
What dining options are available at River Hotel?
The hotel features an à la carte restaurant serving British specialties and a lounge bar.
What amenities are featured in the rooms at River Hotel?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and a desk.
Which nearby restaurants can guests visit from River Hotel?
Nearby restaurants include Dosa Park (0.5 km), Bangkok House (0.5 km), and The Punter (0.5 km).
What type of breakfast is served at River Hotel?
A traditional English breakfast is available for an additional charge of 15 GBP.
Does River Hotel offer any special facilities for children?
The hotel provides cots and board games for children.
What languages are spoken by staff at River Hotel?
Staff members are fluent in English.
Is River Hotel located close to public transportation?
The hotel is a short stroll from Oxford Rail Station and Gloucester Green bus station.
What views can guests expect from rooms at River Hotel?
Some rooms offer views of the garden leading down to the River Thames.

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Check-in
22Jun2026Select date
Check-out
23Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room