Punting on the River Cherwell
Magdalen Bridge Boathouse
Rent a flat-bottomed punt under Magdalen Bridge and pole yourself along the River Cherwell past green meadows and college gardens. It's the most quintessentially Oxford experience.
Punting, a traditional pastime in Oxford and Cambridge, involves propelling a flat-bottomed boat along the river with a long pole pushed against the riverbed. The Magdalen Bridge Boathouse sits beside Magdalen College. You can rent a punt by the hour (about 30 pounds, with a deposit required) or hire a punter to pole you. Heading north along the Cherwell takes you past Magdalen Deer Park and University Parks. Heading south passes the Botanic Garden and Christ Church Meadow before joining the Thames. If you pole yourself, you'll need to learn the technique and watch out for getting stuck on the pole. Another popular boathouse is the Cherwell Boathouse to the north. Most boathouses close on rainy days and in winter.
Opening hours
Approx. Mar–Oct 09:30–sunset (weather permitting)
Nearby sights
- Magdalen College, Oxford
- University of Oxford Botanic Garden
- Merton College, Oxford
- New College, Oxford
- Christ Church Meadow
- University Church of St Mary the Virgin
- Turf Tavern
- Radcliffe Camera