Key details

About the Hotel

17 Botley Road, Oxford

Less than a five minute walk to the city center

Great

8.2

8.5

/10

4.5

"The breakfast was great, in a room overlooking the river - very nice."

Catharine from United Kingdom

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"Excellent breakfast, comfortable beds and free parking (A big bonus in Oxford!)."

Tracey Harvey from United Kingdom

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"Lovely little sitting room stocked with drinks and snacks was an added bonus."

Andrea

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2-star riverside hotel in Oxford

Location

River Hotel is located 2 km from the University of Oxford and less than 1 km from the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology. Situated 300 meters from Oxford Rail Station, it offers convenient access to transportation. Guests can enjoy a spot on the Thames Path, perfect for scenic walks along the river.

Rooms

The hotel provides 16 individually designed rooms, each equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, and WiFi. Select rooms offer views of the garden that leads down to the River Thames. Options include different types such as Standard Double Rooms, Family Rooms, and Annex Rooms.

Dining Options

Guests can enjoy a traditional English breakfast served in the restaurant overlooking the River Thames. The restaurant accommodates various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options. Breakfast is included with the stay, except for 'room only' rates.

Parking Facilities

The property includes a large car park on-site for guests traveling by car. Parking is available for guests, making access straightforward. Additionally, the hotel is conveniently located near public transport options.

Nearby Attractions

The Museum of the History of Science is only 2 km away, adding cultural value to the stay. Guests can also explore the nearby Oxford Castle and Carfax Tower, both within walking distance. Local landmarks provide unique experiences for those wishing to discover Oxford's rich history.

Highlights

Location: 2 km from University of Oxford

Rooms: 16 individually designed accommodations

Dining: Traditional English breakfast served

Parking: Large on-site car park available

Attractions: 2 km from Museum of the History of Science

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
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Double Room Private Bathroom Non En-suite
2 persons
130 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
2 persons
130 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

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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

7.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
On-site car park
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

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

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.

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

Map view

City landmarks

Museum

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

5000 ft

Museum

Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology

5000 ft

Castle

Oxford Castle

3600 ft

Museum

Pitt Rivers Museum

5000 ft

Landmark

Bodleian Library

1.1 mi

Market

The Covered Market Oxford

3600 ft

Church

Christ Church

1.1 mi

University

Bridge of Sighs

1.1 mi

Botanical Garden

Oxford Botanic Garden

1.1 mi

Museum

Museum of the History of Science

3600 ft

Landmark

Sheldonian Theatre

3600 ft

Tower

Carfax Tower

3600 ft

Landmark

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

1.1 mi

University

University colleges

1.1 mi

University

University of Oxford

5000 ft

Landmark

Christ Church Meadow

1.1 mi

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

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
Oxford 12 min · 3300 ft
Airports
Gloucestershire (GLO) 108 min · 44.7 mi
London Heathrow (LHR) 125 min · 51.5 mi
Bus
Bus stop 3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-21:00

Check-out

until 11 am

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 15.0 per person.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

German, Italian

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review score

Based on 6 verified reviews

7.6 /10

Very good

100%

Recommend

Breakfast

8.6/10

Cleanliness

8.2/10

Comfort

8.4/10

Facilities

7.7/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.6/10

Location

9.3/10

Paid Wi-Fi

10.0/10

Staff

9.3/10

Value for money

8.0/10

Jessica from Australia

Single

Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 10, 2026

9/10

convenient location secure parking bright dining room fresh 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

Benjamin from United States

Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 15, 2026

9/10

wide array free 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

absent heating loose 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

small room uncomfortable bed old bathroom

the location was acceptable, near the main attractions.

the room was small. the bed was not comfortable. the bathroom looked 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 variety train station comfortable bed

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).

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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 breakfast quaint dining room high price budget 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

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